How easy should it be to push in the rear caliper pistons?
I’ve rotated the callipers off the pads and disc, taken the brake fluid reservoir cap off and can’t move the piston on either side.
Am I doing something stupid?
The fronts weren’t particularly hard to push in.

When I put on my new ones I could push them in with my fingers when NOT connected to the hydraulics.
Have you tried using a G clamp to get them moving?
Undo the bleed nipple till it starts dribbling so you're not trying to shove the fluid all the way back up the brake pipes as the piston retracts.

Thanks Kevin, I’ll give that a go.

Sounds like they are seized (not uncommon) 2012 TDV8 Vogue (L322)

This may sound stupid, but are you using a caliper rewind tool (available from any car parts store / Amazon / ebay)?

Brake calipers provide massive forces over a very tiny distance (1mm or less). You won't be able to move the piston by hand or with pliers.

Secondly, if the caliper doesn't rewind or the piston is clearly corroded, you need to replace or refurbish the caliper. The rear calipers on the 4.4 TDV8 are notorious for seizing. There may be signs of a seized caliper or sticking caliper - look at the disc for a blue/green discolouration.

You can buy refurb kits for c.£15 or brand new OEM TRW calipers (TRW are the original manufacturer for Land Rover) when on offer for £80. The pistons can be released using a car tyre inflator. If the chamber is scored by the corroded piston, the caliper will need replacing. 2015 Range Rover Autobiography 4.4 SDV8

Last edited by garyRR on 22nd Aug 2023 8:19am. Edited 1 time in total

You can feel the piston 'give' a little with just both thumbs even if it doesn't move far. A block of wood in the jaws with just enough room for a screwdriver will show plenty of movement. A seized piston is rock solid. 2012 TDV8 Vogue (L322)

Thanks all.
Opening bleed nipple and using a g-clamp got them moving.
Required a moderate force to move them.
I wouldn’t call it “rock solid” - I’d assume that would equate to “going nowhere, even with a g-clamp on it”!

Maybe worth removing the pistons, replacing the seals and cleaning up any corrosion on the pistons and bores nr the tips as if you are putting in new disks and pads and you have to retract the pistons this is when the can seize. 2012 TDV8 Vogue (L322)

Thanks all for the helpful suggestions.
One of the pistons was corroded up to . I pushed it out using the brake pedal, cleaned it all up and regressed it and all was well.
They both need replacing but it was enough to get me mobile (and off on holiday).

Enjoy the holiday