What would cause only the rear brakes to wear on a VW Passat?

Question

The rear brakes have been replaced twice, the last time having been only 30000 miles. Yet the front brake pads are doing fine. Normally it's the other way around.

Answer 1

Brake dust probably builds up quicker on your rear rims than the front also.  My '98, '02, and '06 all did the same thing and I remember someone on a forum saying the disk brakes on Passat's are smaller at the rear than the front.  I don't know this for sure but I do know your experience is typical.  Dan

Answer 2

The only explanation would be that your using your e-brake for things other than parking, or the shop you go to or whoever is changing these pads is using granola bars for brake pads. Is it a V6 4motion?  

Answer 3

If the motor is in the rear of the  car, it is because of the weight of the motor.  Most foriegn cars with the motor in the rear have that trouble.  It is because you are putting more wear and tear on the break pads because of the wieght of the motor. Since the vehicle is lighter in the front it will cause your front breaks to last a lot longer in the front of the car.