How to Do a Brake Pad Reset with a Scan Tool

Last Updated: March 2026

Replacing brake pads on a vehicle equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) or electric brake calipers requires more than just swapping pads. The brake caliper piston must be retracted electronically before you can remove the old pads, and the system must be reset after installing the new ones. Attempting to push the piston back manually on these systems can damage the electric motor inside the caliper, leading to a repair bill that far exceeds the cost of the brake pads themselves.

A brake pad reset — also called an EPB service mode procedure — uses a diagnostic scanner to command the brake caliper's electric motor to retract the piston, creating the clearance needed to remove and replace the brake pads. This guide walks you through the entire process using a ThinkCar scan tool.

What You Will Need

  • A ThinkCar diagnostic scanner with EPB/brake reset function (ThinkTool Mini, ThinkScan Max, or Platinum S20)
  • New brake pads appropriate for your vehicle
  • Basic hand tools (socket set, C-clamp is NOT needed with electronic retraction)
  • Jack and jack stands or a vehicle lift
  • Wheel chocks for safety
Safety Warning: Always work on a level surface with the vehicle properly supported on jack stands or a lift. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Ensure the vehicle is in Park (automatic) or in gear (manual) with wheel chocks in place before beginning brake work.

Step-by-Step: How to Do a Brake Pad Reset

Step 1: Connect the Scanner Before Lifting the Vehicle

Connect the ThinkCar scanner to the OBD2 port under the dashboard. Turn the ignition to ON without starting the engine. It is important to connect the scanner and enter EPB service mode before lifting the vehicle, as the system needs to verify vehicle conditions before allowing the retraction.

Step 2: Enter EPB Service Mode

Navigate to Service Reset > EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) on the scanner. Select your vehicle make, model, and year. Choose Enter Maintenance Mode or Open Brake Pads (the terminology varies by vehicle manufacturer). The scanner will command the rear calipers to retract their pistons.

Step 3: Verify Piston Retraction

The scanner will display a confirmation when the pistons are fully retracted. You may hear the electric motors in the rear calipers running for several seconds. Once the scanner confirms success, the rear brake pads should now have clearance for removal.

Step 4: Lift the Vehicle and Replace the Brake Pads

Safely lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheel, then remove the caliper bolts to access the brake pads. Remove the old pads and install the new ones. Reinstall the caliper and wheel. Repeat for the other side if doing both rear brakes.

Step 5: Exit EPB Service Mode

Lower the vehicle back to the ground. On the scanner, select Exit Maintenance Mode or Close Brake Pads. The scanner will command the caliper pistons to advance until they make proper contact with the new brake pads. This sets the correct running clearance automatically.

Step 6: Test the Brakes

With the engine running, press the brake pedal firmly several times to confirm proper pedal feel. Activate and release the electronic parking brake several times to verify it engages and releases correctly. Take a short, slow test drive to confirm proper braking before driving at normal speeds.

Common Vehicles Requiring Scanner-Based Brake Pad Reset

The following vehicles use electronic parking brakes and require a diagnostic scanner for brake pad replacement:

  • BMW — All models with EPB (most 2007+)
  • Audi/VW — Most 2008+ models with electric handbrake
  • Mercedes-Benz — Most 2006+ models
  • Ford — Explorer, Edge, Escape, Bronco Sport (2015+)
  • GM/Chevy — Malibu, Equinox, Blazer, CT4, CT5 (2016+)
  • Toyota — RAV4, Camry, Highlander (2019+)
  • Honda — CR-V, Civic, Accord (2017+)
  • Hyundai/Kia — Tucson, Santa Fe, Sportage, Sorento (2016+)
  • Subaru — Outback, Forester, Ascent (2020+)
  • Jaguar/Land Rover — Most 2010+ models

What Happens If You Skip the Scanner Reset?

Attempting to retract an electronic brake caliper piston manually (with a C-clamp or piston tool) can strip the internal gearing of the electric motor, damage the ball screw mechanism, or trigger fault codes that prevent the parking brake from functioning. This can result in a caliper replacement costing $300-$800 per side. Using a diagnostic scanner to properly retract and advance the pistons takes just a few minutes and protects the caliper mechanism.

Recommended ThinkCar Scanners for Brake Pad Reset

Every ThinkCar scanner includes lifetime free software updates so you always have EPB reset support for the newest vehicles on the road. No subscriptions, no hidden fees.

Questions about brake pad resets? Our technicians are here to help at (866) 217-0063.