Great, thanks I was thinking I would need a tool that would twist and compress with vice like power. That seems like it will do the trick. $50 at Princess Auto, I'll go pick it up today.

Thanks for the replies, I've definitely been applying inward pressure while turning the cylinder in... it will turn but won't go down at all. As for the caliper, I've already removed the brake line but I think I have to remove a torx screw that holds down the e brake component on the caliper.

I'm new to this forum so thanks in advance for any help! I'm looking to replace the brake pads on my 09 Vibe base but I'm having some major issues getting the E brake piston to recede. The fronts were easy as pie to do but I'm having hell of a time getting the E brake piston to recede on the rear ca...