FAQ
TL;DR: "90% of 'new' calipers are remanufactured." Rebuild your Mazda 6 OE rear caliper first; if buying, pick Lauber/TRW/Bosch to reduce risk. [Elektroda, strucel, post #17329005]
Why it matters: Mazda 6 owners weighing NTY/Mapco/ABS vs Bosch or a rebuild get clear, field-tested guidance to avoid early failures and overspending.
Quick Facts
- Budget check: a new Bosch rear caliper was found at ~600 PLN per side. [Elektroda, IBikeYou, post #17328395]
- Typical rebuild labor: about 50 PLN per caliper; add seals and sometimes a piston. [Elektroda, Jackall, post #17329543]
- Failure risk: a cheap new rear caliper seized the handbrake after ~6 months (Audi A6 case). [Elektroda, bandi21, post #17329189]
- Replacement practice: mechanics advise replacing both sides with identical parts for symmetry. [Elektroda, cirrostrato, post #17328478]
- Buying order of preference: rebuild OE, else Lauber reman; if new, choose TRW/Bosch. [Elektroda, Eidems, post #17329059]
Which rear caliper should I choose for a Mazda 6: NTY, Mapco, ABS, or Bosch?
Start with rebuilding your original caliper. If you must buy, pick a remanufactured OE unit like Lauber. For new, prioritize TRW or Bosch. This sequence balances reliability, support, and cost. [Elektroda, Eidems, post #17329059]
Is it smarter to rebuild my original Mazda 6 rear caliper?
Yes. Experienced members favor rebuilding the OE unit first. "Better regenerated original than crap made of rice." You keep the OE casting and refresh the internals. This avoids unknown quality from the cheapest new parts. [Elektroda, ociz, post #17328942]
Are most “new” budget calipers actually remanufactured?
Often, yes. One expert reports 90% of “new” calipers are remanufactured. That means cleaning, repainting, and replacing wear parts. Check listings for OE core and replaced components. [Elektroda, strucel, post #17329005]
How much will a Mazda 6 rear caliper rebuild cost in Poland?
Plan around 50 PLN labor per caliper. Add a seal kit, and sometimes a new piston. DIY reduces labor if you have the skills and tools. [Elektroda, Jackall, post #17329543]
Will cheap calipers fail sooner? Any timelines to expect?
Reports show early failure risk. A cheap new rear caliper had a seized handbrake after about six months. This illustrates why many prefer rebuilds or reputable brands. [Elektroda, bandi21, post #17329189]
Should I replace rear calipers in pairs?
Yes. Mechanics advise replacing both sides with identical parts. This keeps braking behavior consistent across the axle. [Elektroda, cirrostrato, post #17328478]
What brands are recommended if I must buy instead of rebuild?
Choose a Lauber remanufactured OE caliper first. If buying new, pick TRW or Bosch. These options carry better trust than unknown budget labels. [Elektroda, Eidems, post #17329059]
Can I buy a used caliper and rebuild it reliably?
Yes. Buy a used caliper as a core and rebuild it with a kit. "This is the best option." It offers solid value while retaining OE design. [Elektroda, Eidems, post #17329059]
Quick how-to: How do I rebuild a sticking rear caliper?
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- Remove the caliper, strip it, and carefully extract the piston.
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- Clean the bore, fit new seals from a rebuild kit, and replace the piston if worn.
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- Lubricate guide pins, reassemble, bleed, and confirm free parking-brake movement. [Elektroda, Jackall, post #17329543]
What’s a common failure with rear calipers that include a handbrake?
The parking-brake mechanism can seize. One budget caliper locked the handbrake after about six months. Rebuild the unit or replace it to restore proper operation. [Elektroda, bandi21, post #17329189]
Is Bosch worth the ~600 PLN price?
Owners reported Bosch around 600 PLN per side and expect long service “for many years.” Choose Bosch if you can’t rebuild or want a long-term fit-and-forget option. [Elektroda, IBikeYou, post #17328395]
Do Mapco, NTY, or ABS have user feedback here?
A 25-year mechanic called these brands virtually unknown. He used Mapco before but couldn’t attest to quality. Limited feedback suggests caution. [Elektroda, bandi21, post #17329189]
What parts should I expect to replace during a rebuild?
Budget for a seal kit and often a new piston. These are commonly replaced wear items during caliper repair. [Elektroda, Jackall, post #17329543]
How do I verify a genuine remanufactured OE caliper listing?
Look for an original housing that’s cleaned, repainted, and fitted with new wear parts. If unclear, ask the seller to confirm. [Elektroda, strucel, post #17329005]
