Do you need a special tool for rear brakes?

For front brakes, you can use a worn brake pad and c-clamp or a pair of large pliers. For rear disc brakes, you might need a special tool to rotate the pistons in the caliper to retract and reset the emergency brake mechanism. Some parts stores can loan you this tool or you can buy it yourself very inexpensively.

What can I use instead of a brake caliper tool?

To successfully push back the rear caliper brake piston, you will need a simple tool such as a plier or a screwdriver. You need to twist the piston clockwise; clockwise will spin the piston inward into the housing itself inside the caliper, and then you will be able to change your brake pads.

What tools do you need to change rear brake pads?

The Tools Needed to Change Brakes

  1. Start With the Right Protection.
  2. Brake Pads and Rotors.
  3. Jack and Jack Stand.
  4. Lug Nut Wrench.
  5. Brake Caliper Piston Tool.
  6. Brake Bleeder Wrench.
  7. Allen Wrench Set.

Why do rear calipers screw in?

Some say… it’s to prevent the O rings being damaged/folding over themselves if the pistons are just pushed back in (but why should rears be different from fronts?), and others that it’s to do with the handbrake also being on the disc brakes; the handbrake works by turning the piston housing so that it ‘screws’ out …

Why should the bleeder valve be opened before pushing the caliper piston back into the bore?

When removing the caliper, if the caliper piston is forced back into the bore without opening the bleeder, contaminates in the fluid will be forced back into the ABS hydraulic unit and/or master cylinder causing valves/pistons to stick. Never force brake fluid backwards in the system.

Do you need a special tool to change brake pads?

The tools for fixing brakes, especially the ones used for changing your brake pads, are not hard to use. In fact, they can typically be found at any hardware store or auto parts shop. A wrench to remove the caliper bolts — You may need an Allen or Torx wrench for this job, depending on the vehicle.

Why can’t I compress my brake caliper?

When the caliper piston won’t compress, it’s likely due to a rusty or corroded caliper piston, caused by a bad piston boot. If it’s the rear caliper piston, consider the chance that the incorrect wind back procedure is being used.