G4 Rear Brake Caliper (For 232mm Brake Discs) - Left (GIRLING)

This rear left brake caliper is a GIRLING-type single-piston caliper designed for vehicles fitted with 232mm solid rear brake discs. It is most commonly associated with early VW Golf Mk4 rear disc brake systems, but is also widely used as a popular rear disc upgrade for Mk2 Golf models.

With a 38mm piston, banjo-bolt brake hose connection, and compatibility with solid 232mm discs, this caliper offers reliable braking performance and straightforward installation when the correct supporting components are used.

Primary Application – VW Golf Mk4 (1997–1999)

This caliper is fitted to early VW Golf Mk4 models equipped with rear disc brakes using 232mm solid discs.

Fits VW Golf Mk4:

• 1.4 – 2.8 Petrol

• 1.9 Diesel (SDI & TDI)

• Model years 10/1997 – 06/1999

Later Mk4 models may use different rear brake sizes or caliper types. Always confirm disc diameter and caliper style before ordering.

Other Direct Fit Applications

This rear left caliper is also suitable for:

• VW New Beetle (1998–1999)

  • 1.6 & 1.9 petrol and diesel models

• VW Polo 6N (1997–2001)

  • Vehicles with PR codes 1KK or 1KT

  • Factory rear disc brake setup

Popular Upgrade Use – VW Golf Mk2 (1988–1991)

Although originally designed for Mk4 applications, this caliper is commonly used as a rear disc brake upgrade on Mk2 Golf models.

Mk2 Upgrade Notes:

• Suitable upgrade for 1988–1991 Mk2 Golf

• Requires:

  • Correct rear disc stub axles

  • 232mm solid rear brake discs

  • Rear disc brake conversion lines

• When used as a standard rear replacement on Mk2, the following is required:

  • Brake hose conversion kit WC69805062P

Mk2 Golf rear drum and early disc setups used threaded brake hoses, whereas this caliper requires a banjo-bolt style brake hose.

How the Rear Brake Caliper Works

The rear brake caliper houses a 38mm piston that presses the brake pads against the solid rear disc when hydraulic pressure is applied. This creates friction to slow the rear wheels, helping stabilise braking and improve vehicle control—especially under heavier braking or when the car is loaded.

The GIRLING design is known for durability, consistent piston movement, and reliable handbrake operation when correctly installed and adjusted.

Installation & Fitment Notes (Important)

• Fitting position: Rear axle left (passenger side on RHD vehicles)

• Brake disc type: Solid

• Disc diameter: 232mm

• Disc thickness: 9mm

Installation Tip:
It is strongly recommended that the banjo bolt and caliper threads are lightly greased before installation. Fitting dry can cause thread binding, which may result in permanent thread damage to the caliper body.

Recommended Additional Parts

For a correct and safe installation, consider replacing or fitting:

• Rear brake pads

• Banjo bolt and copper washers

• Rear brake discs (232mm solid)

• Brake hose conversion kit WC69805062P (Mk2 Golf)

• New caliper carrier bolts (where applicable)

Rear brake calipers should always be replaced in axle pairs to ensure balanced braking.

Key Specifications

• Fitting position: Rear axle left (RHD passenger side)

• Disc type: Solid

• Disc diameter: 232mm

• Disc thickness: 9mm

• Caliper type: Single-piston floating caliper

• Piston diameter: 38mm

• Manufacturer type: GIRLING