I am trying to replace rear disc pads on my 2001 ES (which I found out actually is a half-year model and therefore has 2002 rear disc brakes). I get the old pads out and put the new ones on, and then I ran into my problem:

I tried to use a C-Clamp to push back the piston and it wouldn't budge. After an hour of frustration I went to Autozone and rented a brake caliper tool that was supposed to fit into the piston and turn it while compressing it. None of the 10 attachments would fit onto my piston. So after 5 hours I resort to putting the old pads back on because I cannot fit the caliper around the new pads.

Can anyone help?? Is there any other way to push back the piston. Thanks.

 

Although I have drum rear brakes, buddy has a P5 and I think you have to retract the piston on the rear discs with an allen wrench by turning it. I think the rear brakes are also adjusted using this same allen head screw. I could be wrong about all of this, in that case....DOOOHHH!

 

Okay Just finished (afer much fustration) my rear brake pad replacement.
2002 ES.

To get the caliper back in, make sure you have the master cylinder cap loosened off.

Turn the piston in clockwise, I used a pair of pilers. Once you turn it in all the way, use a Can Tire piston pusher to push it in a bit more. (That will engage the hand brake) If you don't push the piston in, you wouln't be able to get the hnad brake to work.

(weird engineering if you ask me)

There you go!

ED