Diagnosing issue with rear caliper

[dennis10]

Hi chaps, 

I'm not swimming in cash so would really appreciate some advice on correctly diagnosing my rear nearside caliper issues so I don't fire the parts cannon at it.

This is the offside, which I think is good and the pad sweep on the disc is nice and clean:



This is the nearside which I think is the offending side, the pad sweep on the disk is not clean and looks like something is stuck:



Taking the handbrake off this morning, it was clear it was still stuck on the disk as when I tried to pull away there was a thunk as the pad released a bit from the disk as I reversed out.
If you look at my photos you can also clearly see that the sweep of the pad on the disc is not clean and it is not seating properly, suggesting something is stuck, I'm just not sure if it is dodgy handbrake cables, dodgy handbrake mechanism on the caliper or the caliper piston itself being seized up.  Is there an easy way to diagnose which it is?  I know I probably need discs and pads soon anyway on the rear which is not a problem, but if I can avoid buying a caliper because it is something else causing the issue then I'd like that option

Cheers

[ZoliWorks]

Rear calipers are a common failpoint in the Mk5. They like to seize up, especially if left sitting for longer periods of time or being exposed to the elements.

[Octoparrot]

Rear calipers are a common failpoint in the Mk5. They like to seize up, especially if left sitting for longer periods of time or being exposed to the elements.

Yes I agree, probably a seized / seizing caliper, common problem, I wouldn't bother trying to refurb it yourself, get a refurbed caliper from a reputable supplier.

[Flyingscotsman]

The OEM ones are made by TRW.  You can get red powdercoated TRW ones for similar price to refurbs.
I replaced both my rear calipers with these last year.

https://brakeparts.co.uk/shop/Volkswagen/Golf/05-08/GOLF%20MK5%202.0%20inc%20GTI/Rear%20-%20Brake%20Calipers%20and%20Wheel%20Cylinders/BCA3894D