Rear Brake caliper piston pressure question...help

**mefischer77** · 03-02-2009 06:05 PM

So I'm having a bitch of a problem releasing pressure in the rear caliper piston to do a simple pad replacement. It's to the point that I've stripped out a caliper piston tool.

Anyone have a simple tip on how to release the brake pressure?

Thanks!!!

**kingofnyc** · 03-02-2009 06:30 PM

Go to autozone and rent a brake caliper piston tool kit. Rear piston needs to be turned while applying presure. If you just press on it it will not work. Its press and turn.

**mefischer77** · 03-02-2009 06:51 PM

Originally Posted by kingofnyc

Go to autozone and rent a brake caliper piston tool kit. Rear piston needs to be turned while applying presure. If you just press on it it will not work. Its press and turn.

how do you turn it while putting pressure?

**kingofnyc** · 03-02-2009 06:56 PM

Originally Posted by mefischer77

how do you turn it while putting pressure?

Thats why you need a special tool (brake caliper piston tool kit). You can rent it from autozone for free. You can see 2 cuts on the face of the piston in shape of arrow. You have to push the piston and turn it clockwise and it will retract.

Watch this it will help.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrjQofxd-h8

**ILoveT** · 03-02-2009 07:01 PM

Did you open up the brake fluid reservoir cap?

**mefischer77** · 03-02-2009 08:08 PM

Sure did open it up. I've changed brakes on a dozen different cars, and this has thrown me for a loop. Never had to twist as compressing the piston. I'll get one in the morning from Autozone. Thanks for the tip kingofnyc.... You the man!

**Stampy** · 03-02-2009 08:41 PM

Yep, need that brake piston tool. Should take you no time at all.

Autozone rental FTW!

**a62.7t4ceo** · 03-02-2009 08:43 PM

I've done it with a c-clamp and large pliers.

**mefischer77** · 03-02-2009 08:56 PM

Originally Posted by a62.7t4ceo

I've done it with a c-clamp and large pliers.

tried that... and I have the normal/little brake piston compressor tool (now broken), but looks like I need the big motha...

Thanks again guys...

**Stampy** · 03-02-2009 09:01 PM

Here is a good read. Kinda describes both methods. The C clamp/pliers works, but its a pain.

READ ME =)

**harleykidd** · 03-04-2009 03:23 PM

I just tried to replace my wifes rear brake pads 06 A6 with (this is the kicker) electromagnetic (E-) park brake. I have found out that you have to use a Vag-Com (CAN-Hex) to release the (park) brake caliper. Here is a link to the instructions.

http://wiki.ross-tech.com/index.php/...ial_Procedures

Open Rear Parking Brake
Prerequisites:

Connect a battery charger.
Cycle the Parking Brake ON, then OFF first.
[Select]
[53 - Parking Brake]
[Basic Settings - 04]
Group 007
[Go!]
Activate the Basic Setting.
[ON/OFF/Next]
The brake calipers will then open, allowing the pads to be changed
[Done, Go Back]
[Close Controller, Go Back - 06]

It is normal for the LED in the parking brake switch and the warning lamp in the instrument cluster to blink rapidly at this point.

Close Rear Parking Brake
Prerequisites:

Connect a battery charger.
[Select]
[53 - Parking Brake]
[Basic Settings - 04]
Group 006
[Go!]
Activate the Basic Setting.
[ON/OFF/Next]
The brake calipers will then close.
[Done, Go Back]
[Close Controller, Go Back - 06]

The LED in the parking brake switch and the warning lamp in the instrument cluster will probably continue to blink rapidly. This should stop after cycling the Parking Brake ON, then OFF again.

You CAN NOT release or press the caliper back with force...believe me I tried with every tool I could find. I just ordered a VCDS 350.00 from Ross Tech

Hope this helps!

Steve