What Are Brake Calipers?

Brake calipers play a pivotal role in a vehicle’s braking system. They are responsible for slowing or stopping the car by creating friction with the brake rotors. This system is crucial for safe driving, as it directly affects the vehicle’s stopping ability. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid enables the caliper to apply pressure to the brake pads, which in turn press against the rotors, creating the necessary friction to slow down or stop the vehicle.

Types of Brake Calipers

There are primarily three types of brake calipers: 

Floating Calipers

A floating caliper is designed to move slightly side-to-side relative to the rotor. It differs from fixed calipers by having one or more pistons on only one side of the rotor, allowing it to move laterally. When the brakes are applied, hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid pushes these pistons outward, pressing the brake pad against one side of the rotor. This action simultaneously causes the caliper to slide, or “float,” bringing the pad on the opposite side into contact with the rotor.

Fixed Calipers

A fixed caliper differs from a floating caliper in its immobility relative to the brake disc. A fixed caliper features pistons on both sides of the rotor, and this design can include multiple pistons per side. When the brakes are applied, hydraulic pressure causes the pistons on both sides to extend, pushing the brake pads against both sides of the rotor. This results in friction that slows down or stops the vehicle.

Sliding Calipers

Sliding calipers, also known as pin-slide calipers,  share a similarity with floating calipers in having one or two pistons on just one side of the rotor. The key feature of sliding calipers is their use of pins or sliders, which facilitate the caliper’s slight back-and-forth movement during the braking process.

Brake Caliper Material

Brake calipers are typically made from two types of materials:

Cast Iron: Known for its durability and heat absorption qualities, it’s widely used in standard vehicles.

Aluminum: Lighter than cast iron and used in performance or luxury vehicles, aluminum calipers offer better heat dissipation and reduced unsprung weight, improving handling and efficiency.

Signs You Should Replace Brake Calipers

Recognizing when to replace your brake calipers is crucial for maintaining the safety and effectiveness of your vehicle’s braking system. Here are some key signs indicating that your brake calipers may need replacement:

Uneven Brake Pad Wear

If you notice that one brake pad is wearing down faster than the others, it could be a sign that a caliper is not releasing properly, causing constant friction on one side.

Brake Fluid Leaks

Calipers use hydraulic brake fluid to function. If you spot leaks around the brake caliper area, this could indicate a failure in the caliper’s seals or a crack in the caliper itself.

Reduced Braking Performance

If your vehicle’s braking performance has noticeably declined, such as needing a longer distance to stop, it may be due to a failing caliper.

Pulling to One Side During Braking

If your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake, it might indicate that a caliper is sticking or seizing on that side, causing uneven braking pressure.

Unusual Noises During Braking

Squealing, grinding, or clunking noises during braking can sometimes be a symptom of caliper issues, often related to uneven pressure or a stuck caliper.

Caliper Piston Not Retracting

In a properly functioning brake system, the caliper piston should retract when you release the brake pedal. If it doesn’t, this could signify a problem with the caliper.

Physical Damage or Corrosion

Visible damage, severe corrosion, or rust on the caliper can impair its function and necessitate replacement.

Dragging Sensation

If it feels like your brakes are dragging or your vehicle is struggling to move freely, it might be due to a caliper that isn’t fully releasing.

FRONTECH has been committed to braking systems for 22 years,the three main products of brake pads, brake discs and brake calipers have undergone strict quality control and performance testing to ensure that they meet the highest international standards. At the same time, we keep up with industry development trends, continuously launch new products that meet market needs, and provide partners with one-stop, customized auto parts solutions.