Brake caliper

One of the most important components of a car, and one without which it is simply impossible to operate, is the braking system and its components. One of these parts is the caliper, or brake caliper, which ensures that the vehicle runs smoothly and that the braking system works properly and safely. The calipers are responsible for holding the brake pads in place, locking them to the brake discs and braking the wheels smoothly. This part is crucial in a car because it ensures that the force required for braking is provided.

Structure and function of the brake caliper

The brake caliper is the housing that encloses the disc on which the wheel is mounted. This housing also holds the brake pads, the pusher (which engages and releases both sides of the caliper). When the brake pedal is pressed, the caliper pushes the pads against the brake disc. Of all the braking systems, the caliper is the only moving part that directly contributes to the effective braking of the car. 

When the brake pedal is depressed, pressure is created in the hydraulic line, which causes the calipers to move. In this way, the pads are pressed against the disc and the car brakes efficiently. The caliper's task is also to keep the pads parallel to the brake disc, which reduces braking efficiency and makes the pad surface uneven and wears faster. 

Types of brake calipers 

Calipers can be divided into sliding calipers and fixed calipers. 

Sliding - the design is extremely simple and not suitable for sports cars or heavy vehicles. A sliding caliper has sliders on one side only and can move around the wheel disc. When the brake pedal is depressed, the piston presses against the brake pads on one side of the disc only and the caliper slides over the surface of the wheel disc, as the pads on the other side of the caliper, which is free of the piston, are also in contact with the surface of the disc. 

Fixed - more complex in design than a sliding caliper, a fixed caliper increases the efficiency of the element. It is a non-moving part and is fixed in a specific single location. A fixed fitting has movable pushers on both sides. The fixed clamp distributes the braking force more efficiently and evenly. However, this type of caliper is also available at a higher price. 

What are the common brake caliper failures?

Like other parts in a car, the brake caliper is a critical component that needs careful attention and regular inspection. A properly functioning caliper ensures the efficiency of the braking system, which means safety on the road. 

Caliper failures can be caused by deformation of the component, wear and tear, improper and irregular maintenance of the brake system, use of low-quality parts, aggressive driving style, environmental factors, exposure to moisture and dirt, improper use of brake fluid, and the use of worn brake pads. There are many and varied causes of caliper failure and regular maintenance is essential to protect other parts and ensure safe journeys. When a worn component is exploited, not only is the safety of other components at risk, but also the safety of the driver and other road users. Correcting the problem is therefore essential. 

What are the signs of a caliper failure?

- Rear brakes lock up under high forces.

- There is a "pulsation" when the brake pedal is applied.

- The car veers sideways under braking.

- The brake pedal feels loose or stiff.

- Automatic brake application.

- More distance is required to come to a complete stop.

- The engine revs up slowly.

- A smell of burning may be present.

The service life of the calipers depends on the operating conditions of the car, driving style and other factors. It is normal for this component to tend to wear over time due to environmental and other factors, but only smooth braking, regular maintenance, optimum storage conditions and an acceptable driving style can prolong the life of this component.  

Caliper operation tips 

- Change brake fluid on time.

- Clean and lubricate the components of the assembly.

- Check the condition of the rubber boots at the time of pad change, or at least once every six months.

- Choose lubricants only according to the technical requirements of your car model.

- Coat the clutch with special temperature-resistant paint to prevent or slow down corrosion.

- Avoid aggressive driving styles.

- Avoid hard braking and sudden acceleration.

- Have all brake fluid changed regularly.

- Regularly inspect the entire brake system and components.

- Do not use a worn component for even a short period of time and be sure to replace it with a new one.

Repair or replace the brake caliper?

Depending on the fault, this question can only be answered by professional technicians who have detected the fault and evaluated the performance of the part. Repairing/restoring the caliper is not always the better option, and sometimes fixing the problem can be much more expensive than replacing a new part. The same applies to worn parts. A worn part shortens the life of the vehicle, it is not clear exactly how effective a used part will be for you, and sometimes you end up spending a lot more in order to save money. It is recommended to choose a new part to be sure of its long-term use and reliability. 

In the event of minor faults, you can also replace the caliper yourself. However, if the problem is serious and you don't have the right tools and knowledge, it's better to leave it to the professionals. Improper replacement can damage other parts and compromise the system's airtightness. To remove the part, you need to lift the car with a hoist or jack, remove the wheel, unscrew the caliper fasteners and remove the part without disconnecting it from the brake fluid channel. 

How to choose a brake caliper?

Brake calipers are available in different types, varying in price, size, manufacturer and other parameters. You should choose this part according to your specific car model. Calipers vary in diameter, and you should also pay attention to the thickness of the brake discs and other parameters. Only a properly matched and selected part, according to the model of your car, will ensure efficient braking and safety on the road. 

It is essential to familiarise yourself with all the characteristics of the part to make sure that it is the right one for your car. At partecha.com you will find a wide range of quality calipers from well-known brands for every car model. It's easy to choose with our quick and easy search engine, which will generate results according to your criteria by selecting the manufacturer, model and modification of your car, so all you have to do is choose the part you want. And if you need any help, our experts are always ready to advise you and help you choose the right product for your needs.