Best ScanTool for Rear Brake Service Mode

jpeterferrell · 2025-09-24T11:57:02-0400

I'm about to do the rear brake service on my 2020 Boxster S. I think I have all the tools required for the job, but the one thing I don't have is a scan tool that can put the rear brakes into service mode (and then put them back in the normal mode, obviously). I've searched around as much as I can, and there seems to be conflicting information out there about what will work.

I'm on the fence between doing the job myself and having my local indy shop do it. I have access to a lift, tools, etc, but parts to do the job out here in Hawaii are about $800, price of the indy doing it is about $1600, so if I have to spend a few hundred on a scan tool I start to approach the cost of just having them do it.

Thanks for whatever information you all can give me!

RobertM · 2025-09-24T14:06:47-0400

I don't believe the e-brake has to be put in service mode on the 718 as the e-brake is a separate mechanism, but I haven't serviced mine yet. On the 718 you usually only need to put the e-brake in service mode to replace the e-brake shoes or to replace the rotor. If just replacing the brake pads you can do that without putting the e-brake in service mode. If I'm wrong and it does have to be put in service mode you can do that without a scan tool. You can remove the cover and use a screw driver to retract it. Or you can add an external power source to the motor to retract it. You move it in or out by reversing the polarity.

If you want a scan tool for working on your vehicle look at ThinkDiag, Launch X431, AUTEL, PIWIS, or several others. The ThinkDiag is the lowest cost device but it needs an external Android device like an Android Phone or Android Tablet so you'll have a screen and a way to tell the device what to do.

GT42023 · 2025-09-25T00:41:09-0400

As long as the electronic handbrake is left off, you'll be able to remove the rear discs to change out or service.

It has seperate shoes which push against the inner hat of the rear brake discs.

ReidMcT · 2025-09-25T09:20:20-0400

Not sure what service you are planning, but you can bleed the rear brakes, and also change the pads, without a scan tool and without removing the calipers. Depending on the wheels, some can even be done with the wheels on the car.

Best ScanTool for Rear Brake Service Mode

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