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.