Brake Caliper Tool Types And UsesThere are two common types of brake caliper tools used in brake repair. One is a disc brake pad spreader and the other is a disc brake piston tool. Both types are available in many different versions, but they all essentially perform the same function. By wedging itself against the caliper, the brake pad spreader pushes the piston back into the caliper when the knob is turned. A big c-clamp or adjustable pliers will also perform this same function.
 The Disc Brake Piston Tool is for rear calipers with an integrated parking brake. The caliper piston on this type of system has to be rotated for the piston to retract into the caliper. On these models, the hydraulic piston has recesses in the face for a tool to grip. The disc brake piston tool has five different pin configurations to adapt to many different types of vehicles. A 3/8" socket wrench with an extension is used with this tool. Return from Brake Caliper Tool to Brake Repair Tools
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The Disc Brake Pad Spreader is used to push the piston back into the caliper when changing brake pads. This tool only works on models with single piston calipers. It does not work on calipers with an integrated parking brake, use the disc brake piston tool instead (shown below). 
