Re-using calipers when changing pads

[Silver]

I always crack open the bleeder before pushing back the piston.

Then I thoroughly bleed the system with 2 liters of fluid.

I think this makes sense. It seems to me this way the fluid that is most likely to need replacing is bled out of the caliper. It's gotten the hottest, and water is heavier than brake fluid so moisture should be in the caliper.

 

[Kuato]

Do we still push the caliper pistons back in with a C-clamp when changing pads? That's the way I always did it, but does that cause some sort of problem on modern cars? I have a guy telling me that pushing the pistons back in never works anymore and you should just replace the whole caliper when you replace the pads

Never had a problem pushing the piston back in, new or old vehicle, with the reservoir open or closed…

If the calipers are good they are good.

 

[Hall]

Now the guy that was telling you this doesn't seem to know WHY he's telling it to you.

Probably an internet, old wives tale. Someone made this claim, someone repeated it, now it gets repeated so much some consider it fact.

Vehicles have become so complicated

Brake calipers really haven't though. The same basic design for disc brakes have been in use for 40+ years.

 

[SwampSurvivor]

With salt brine spray I don't even bother. I know that piston is going to seize up. Calipers are cheap.