New to the site, but recently gained enough useful information to replace my rear brake pads on my 2006 Jetta TDI with 65,000 miles. Very easy. I found out you don't need the speciality caliper piston turn back tool VW recommends (resetting and retracting tool #T10165), but you can use the universal tool (looks like a cube 1-inch wide) sold at auto parts stores for $10, however, you have to grind off two edges on one side to make it fit the caliper piston grooves. Then you use a 3/8 rachet to turn the piston in. One side was a breeze. The other side I had to have a helper hold the caliper while I pushed and turned the rachet it was a little tougher.
I went with Akebono pads part # AKEUR1348 $61.49 and a brake hardware kit part #CE117.33018$21.21, both from Auto Parts Warehouse. The brake hardware kit contained new pad clips (VW calls them anti-rattle springs,they don't look like springs) and guide pin rubber boots. Everything fit perfectly.
I can't wait to tackle my next maintenance project!
