striker1211 wrote:I have one stuck caliper guide pin on my 2008 vibe. It is the bottom one on the drivers side. My options are to spend hours trying to get the pin out (tried MAPP gas and BFH already), replace the bracket ($47 after core), or replace the entire caliper with bracket ($57 after core). Both calipers are fine and show no signs of seizure or leaking. I am shocked that an entire caliper is $10 more than just the bracket but that is just the way it is. My real question is, if I replace one of the calipers should I replace the other one? I have 170k miles on these factory calipers but I am wondering if aftermarket calipers are junk compared to OEM. Also, could anyone explain the significance of the two washers on the brake line bolt on the back of the caliper? It looks like one goes on the outside and one goes on the inside, but it seems like it would block the little hole in the bolt once torqued down. I cannot find any videos on how to replace the caliper on the vibe, only the rotors/pads. Thanks in advance.
Stuck as in how? [don't have first gen to picture in my head]
If the caliper is truly fine, replace just the bracket. No need to gamble that they rebuilt the piston assembly and all properly. Aftermarket are generally refurbished oem takeoffs, just depends who rebuilds them, how bad the prior were, etc.
New bolts and new boots and grease too.
There is no need to replace both calipers AFAIK if you go that route, but your new caliper will not be extended on the brake pad the same as the other side. Most would likely replace the brake pads, which means you are replacing the pads on the other side too. Hence why just doing the bracket is cost effective and easiest. You also need to bleed it properly afterwards (google it).
The washers (called banjo bolt washers) serve as crush washers; you should NOT reuse them. One goes on the outside - first thing on the bolt, other on the inside, up agaisnt the caliper; often the bolt is not reused either. The hole in the bolt will be inside the caliper. The torque is very light on that bolt, otherwise you break it off - the whole through it for the fluid weakens it.