VW Bora Brake Issues: Spongy Pedal & Vibrations Alert

Had a very similar issue with my 2003 VW Golf 1.6 last year. Have some experience working on cars but mainly doing basic maintenance. The symptoms you describe match what I experienced, spongy brake pedal and vibrations. Initially thought it was related to the hydraulic brakes or brake calipers, but after taking it to the workshop, they diagnosed an undervoltage problem affecting the brake system electronics. The technician explained that insufficient voltage was causing erratic behavior in the ABS module, which made the brake pedal feel inconsistent. They had to test the battery, alternator and electrical connections. After replacing some corroded wiring and the battery, the brake system returned to normal operation. Total repair cost was 240€. Before jumping to conclusions about mechanical brake components, it would help to know: Are there any warning lights on the dashboard? Does the problem occur more when the engine is cold or warm? Have you noticed any other electrical issues like dim lights or slow starter? Was the brake fluid changed recently? The disc brakes and brake calipers might not be the root cause here. Would recommend getting the electrical system checked first, as electrical issues can mimic mechanical brake problems.

Thanks for the detailed reply. Just had my service at 21463km where they checked the battery and electrical system, all good there. The spongy brake pedal seems worse during cold starts but improves slightly after driving for a while. No warning lights on the dash. Brake fluid was changed during the service and looks clean. Since electrical issues are ruled out, I am now more convinced its either the brake calipers or worn brake shoes causing this. The vibration through the pedal especially suggests mechanical wear. Will probably need to get the brake system properly inspected soon. Should I continue driving while its like this or is it unsafe? Metal brakes making occasional squeaky noises now too.

Thanks for the additional details about the brake system symptoms. Since electrical issues are ruled out and having dealt with similar problems on my VW Golf, those squeaky brakes combined with pedal vibration strongly suggest worn brake components. When my brake rotors started making similar noises, I continued driving for about a week but noticed the symptoms rapidly worsening. The hydraulic brakes remained functional but the feedback became increasingly concerning. From experience, this combination of symptoms typically indicates: Worn or uneven brake rotors causing vibration, Brake pads worn beyond recommended thickness, Possible sticking brake calipers While the disc brakes will still work, continuing to drive risks: Further damage to brake components, Extended stopping distances, Potential brake system failure Given the safety-critical nature of brakes, recommend getting it checked immediately. My repair involved: Replacing front brake rotors and pads, Servicing brake calipers, Cost around 380€ Until you can get it inspected, avoid high-speed driving and maintain extra following distance. The squeaky brakes and vibration are clear warning signs that should not be ignored.

Thanks for the advice. Following up on my brake issues, I took the car to a workshop today based on the suggestions here. The mechanic confirmed worn disc brakes and partially seized brake calipers were causing the spongy pedal feel and vibration. The brake fluid was also contaminated despite looking clean, which contributed to the poor hydraulic brake performance. Full repair included: New front brake rotors and pads, Rebuilt brake calipers, Complete brake fluid flush, Total cost 420€ The squeaky brakes and pedal feedback are completely gone now. Definitely the right call to get it checked quickly rather than risk driving with deteriorating brakes. The mechanic mentioned the calipers could have failed completely if left much longer. Looking back, the gradually worsening pedal feel and noise were clear warning signs of brake system issues. Will be more proactive with brake maintenance in the future.