Brake Caliper Replacement
What is a brake caliper?
Brake calipers squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotor. The clamping force they apply on the brake rotor slows or stops the vehicle.
How does a brake caliper work?
Braking calipers use hydraulic pressure supplied by the brake master cylinder to clamp the brake pads against the rotor. The brake pads fit inside the caliper, so the hydraulic clamping force is transferred to the pads, then the brake rotor, and ultimately the tires.
What are the symptoms related to a bad brake caliper?
Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.
The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.
Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.
Can I drive with a brake caliper problem?
It is not safe to drive if your car has a braking problem. If there's any sign that the brakes are not performing as they should, have the vehicle towed to a professional mechanic to get them repaired.
How often do brake calipers need to be replaced?
On most vehicles, the brake calipers will never need replacement. When they do fail, it typically happens when the car has at least 125,000 miles on it.
How are brake caliper issues diagnosed?
A mechanic will look for brake pads that are severely worn on one brake caliper, a caliper not providing sufficient clamping force to stop the vehicle, or fluid leaks from the wheel well. The caliper in question will be removed and further inspected.
How is a brake caliper replaced?
With the wheel and tire off, the caliper is disconnected from the brake line, unbolted and removed. The brake pads will be installed in the new caliper, and the rotor will be cleaned of any brake fluid, grease, fingerprints or other contaminants.
Once the brake caliper is ready for installation, it's bolted into place, the brake line is reattached, and the entire braking system will be bled of air.
RepairPal recommendations for brake caliper issues
When the caliper is replaced, the brake pads (and rotors, if needed) must also be replaced. The pads (and rotors, if needed) on the opposite side must be replaced, as well, for even braking.
Can I replace the brake caliper myself?
Typically, this repair should be left to a professional. But a DIYer with plenty of knowledge about hydraulically driven systems can pull it off.