from memory its something like 14mm spline drive or triple square
on the rear cant remember if front is same size or not

if its the 4.2 and (356mm)rear discs you dont actually have to remove the carrier
theres enough space to swap them over once you have backed them off with vcds

Getting the front Caliper off
 

Just come across this myself, In france front wheel off trying to change the pads

Stuck at the caliper


anyone have a definitive idea on the tool required and size?

Attachment 16720

Attachment 16721

just going through some old posts and saw this

the socket required to remove or loosen the caliper slider pins on the front brakes
is a " H9 socket " 9mm hexagonal socket

some silly bugger thought it would be good to come up with an odd size socket so it makes it harder to change things :Confused::Confused::Confused:

"VW Special Tool" +++

Serves one of two purposes: earn VW some ££, and discourage hobbyist mechanics from tackling the job! :angry4:
Oh... 3 purposes - frustrate the crap out of actual mechanics :tuttut: