Caliper change and SBC

[Benzos]

Hi everyone,

I’m having an issue with my car’s left rear calliper—it’s stuck, and I plan to replace it soon. I’ve already changed the pads and rotors on the rear without any issues, but this stuck calliper is causing the brakes to get warm and smelly. At first, both of the callipers were heating up, but the left was heating up way more, so I've re-done the job cleaning the pins thoroughly, which helped the right side, but the left seems to have a bad calliper.

I have a couple of questions:

What’s the best method to bleed the brakes after replacing the calliper? Are there any tips or tricks to ensure I get all the air out?

I’ve heard that replacing the calliper can sometimes trigger the SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system. Is there a way to prevent any issues or warning lights from showing up after the replacement?

Before changing the pads and rotors I unplugged the battery, which seemed not to trigger SBC.

Any advice or guidance would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

 

[Benzos]

Just a thing to note, I bled the right calliper a little just out of curiosity, so I'm thinking if that had any impact for the piston to work as usual, and if I should try it on the left side too

 

[Snake Charmer]

I replaced the rear lines on my S211 and bled the calipers by opening the drivers door.Unlocking the car or opening a door activates the SBC, you may hear the rear calipers creak as they apply.

The correct method is with a constant pressure bleeder and Star/Xentry. This will also bleed the intensifier. A clamp on bleed nipple connector is also recommended for the bleed bottle.

You can disable the SBC by disconnecting the main connector on the unit to save resetting the steering and windows etc.

 

[supernoodle]

The 211s seem to have an issue with the pistons becoming out of round. They then don't push back.
When I changed the calipers on mine for that reason I pulled the plug on the SBC, clamped the hose, changed caliper then changed the hose. To purge I just used a Sealey VS820 pressure bleeder.
That was a few years ago, been fine since.

You can just buy a piston repair kit if you prefer. I tend to use brakes international for such items, always been happy with their parts and service

Brake Parts for Cars

UK's largest distributor of car brake parts. Brake pads, brake discs, brake calipers, brake shoes, brake drums, brake wheel cylinders, brake master cylinders, brake flexible hoses, brake kits and all Vauxhall brake parts.

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[Snake Charmer]

I have not yet dismantled any of my S211 calipers but forgot about the plastic pistons, good shout.

 

[Orb the Impaler]

The rear calipers on R230s very often seize when disc replacement occurs - luckily they're cheap.
I use a Foxtel Elite 650 - it can (de)activate and bleed SBC amongst other things.