The Best Brake Caliper Tool | 2023

You don’t need a professional mechanic to change the brake pads on your car. You just need a quality set of tools that will help you get the job done. One of the most important tools you’ll need to buy for this task is a brake caliper tool. It’s designed to retract the pistons to prevent damaging them while you remove and replace the brake pads. If you’re in the market for this tool, this buying guide will help you with your search.

Check the brake caliper tool’s construction materials first, so you know you’re buying a set that is designed to last. For example, the Orion Motor Tech Professional Disc Brake Caliper Tool, 24-Pc is made from carbon steel and is coated with a rust-proof and blasted finish.

Review which cars the brake caliper tool is compatible with. You don’t want to pay good money for a tool, only to find out that it doesn’t work on your car’s make and model. Some tools come with a wide variety of adapters, which means that they will work on almost every car out there. Of course, there are still a few exceptions, so make sure you take the time to review the compatibility guide first.

Look for a brake caliper tool that rotates a full 360-degrees. This is an important feature, as it allows you to work on the brake pads from any angle. Not only do certain models come with the 360-degree swing, but they also have an extended reversing lever. This feature allows you to switch from spreading to retracting rather quickly.

Consider any other benefits the brake caliper tool has to offer. For example, there are models that come with their own storage case, as well as tools that provide an ergonomic handle for comfort and wrist fatigue prevention. You’ll even come across brake caliper tools with a centrally located ratchet to prevent the misalignment of the pistons.

• When operating the brake caliper tool, you’ll don’t need to squeeze the handle hard. In fact, squeezing the handle slowly is best, as the caliper will not want to move easily otherwise. If the tool requires more than a moderate amount of pressure to operate, there is probably something wrong with it. You can take it to a mechanic for repair.
• Keep your brake caliper tool protected when not in use to extend its life. Some of these tools are sold with a storage case, while others are not. If you don’t have a carry case to place the tool in, you can use a toolbox, tool chest or even a multipurpose heavy-duty case.
• Consider investing in a tube of stainless steel wipes. You can use these to wipe down your brake caliper tool after each use. Not only do these wipes clean and leave the tool with a nice shine, but they also repel dust and dirt. WD-40 also works, if that’s what you have on hand.
• Design, construction materials and extra features all play a role in the overall price of a brake caliper tool. The Orion Motor Tech Professional Disc Brake Caliper Tool, 24-Pc is affordably priced. You’ll pay the most for tools that come with multiple pieces and a heavy-duty plastic storage case.