Went to change brake pads and caliper piston is leaking...

[adam355]

I needed new pads and when i went to push the caliper piston back it squirted fluid at me. Is this normal at all or do these calipers need to be replaced? Thanks

 

[11sec_GSX]

I would replace the caliper if it's leaking fluid.

 

[Black 95 TSI]

replace the caliper you could rebuild it but be cheaper to get a new one

 

[twicks69]

They can easily be rebuilt -- if it is just a piston seal replacement. Most brake places can do it.

Otherwise you can always ebay a set of replacements. Or it is time to upgrade...

Either way, if it is leaking, it is not good -- it also means that you have a pressure leak, causing a caliper that is not going to clamp fully, and will bleed off pressure or will result in the pad dragging on the rotor. The pad dragging would result in a warped rotor, and unevenly worn pads. I would inspect all of your brake lines also -- always a good thing to do.

Replace the caliper, and pads for sure. You will have to be the one deciding if the rotor needs replacement or if it can be turned and still be in spec.


If brake fluid is exposed to the air, it will degrade because it is hydroscopic; meaning that it absorbs water or moisture. Once it is exposed, it becomes less compressive and will result in spongy brakes and poor braking ability. To get your car back up to proper braking capabilities, be sure to bleed the system, and flush as much of the old brake fluid out. Expect to use at least a quart of decent brake fluid (like Valvoline Synthetic). Also, if you use a turkey baster (or battery filler) to suck out the brake fluid reservoir before you bleed the brakes, you can remove any extra debris that can be in the reservoir. Then clean it out well with a rag, and then fill with fresh fluid.

You want to go in order from farthest to closest to the brake master cylinder, and bleed each caliper several times until fresh fluid comes out at each caliper.

Get a person to help, and a couple of hours to do it the right way. Otherwise, you can install Speedbleeders on each caliper, and do it with one person.

Just don't forget to top off the reservoir every 4 or 5 pumps of the brake pedal.