I’m changing the pads on the rear brakes on my 2006 Mazda 3 (2.3L). I am having a hard time retracting the piston. The parking brake is off and I took the cap of the brake reservoir. I bruised my hands trying to use pliers to push the caliper in as I turned it clockwise. I am going to by a brake caliper tool to help in pushing it back to accommodate the new pads. Any advice?
See if any of the local auto parts stores rent this tool. Otherwise you’ll spend about this much for a good rear caliper tool. http://www.denlorstools.com/home/dt1/page_6504_12/rear_brake_caliper_piston_tool_set_kd_41540.html
Tester
I’ve read since the parking brake is integrated that I need to remove the parking brake cable to push the piston back into the caliper. Is that true? Or will this tool do it?
No. The parking brake cable doesn’t require removal. The tool does it all.
Tester
This post is 9 year old…the OP probably solved the problem by now.