An automotive vehicle’s brake system is the most critical part for your and your vehicle’s safety. Although brakes are the life-savers, the brake caliper is the hero working behind the scenes. The brake calipers are responsible for creating friction with the rotors to slow down the wheels and stop the vehicle. Your vehicle will not stop at the place and time you expect it to. It is not possible to stop your vehicle without the help of brake calipers. Let’s learn more about how brake calipers work and contribute to your vehicle’s overall performance.
What are brake calipers?
Brake calipers are one of the most important parts of brake systems. These are only found in modern cars with disc brake systems. They are commonly located on the wheels of vehicles, however, their wheel position depends on the type of vehicle. Depending on the type of vehicle, it can be on the front or rear wheels. Once the brake is pressed down, the calipers press the brake pads against the rotor to slow down the vehicle or stop it. High-quality materials are used in the brake calipers that are efficient enough to endure the force and heat generated during the braking. A brake caliper comprises many components like-
Caliper housing: It is the primary structure of the brake system that provides support to other components. The aluminum or forged steel is used in the calipers, thus able to endure high levels of heat and friction.
Break Pads: These are present within the brake calipers. They generate friction against the rotor to slow down or stop the wheels.
Also Read: How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
Brake pad clips: They securely hold the brake pads within the calipers.
Seals and dust boots: They tightly seal around the pistons so that leakage of brake fluid can be prevented. Also, it prevents the accumulation of dirt and contaminants.
Pistons: It is the basic power source of brake calipers. Its primary function is to generate force for braking. When you press the brake pedal, the fluid generates the hydraulic force to push out the pistons.
Bleeder Screw: It is responsible for releasing the excess brake fluid and air during the brake bleeding process.
How do brake calipers work?
The primary job of brake calipers is to transform the hydraulic force generated from the brake pedals into the mechanical force. Once the brake pedal is pressed down, the master cylinder activates and sends the brake fluid to the caliper. Further, ch hydraulic pressure pushes the brake pads against the rotor. This slows down or stops the car.
Types of brake calipers
There are different types of brake calipers-
Floating brake calipers:
These are the most common types of floating brake calipers in modern cars. They have one or two pistons only on one side but are connected to both sides and the caliper can move. The caliper moves inwards when you press the brake. This thus causes the piston to press brake pads against the rotor.
Sliding calipers:
Just like floating brake calipers, they have one or two pistons on only one side of the rotor. But they use pins or sliders to move the caliper back and forth. It not only applies equal pressure on the rotor on both sides but also improves brake pad life.
Fixed calipers:
Unlike floating brake calipers, they have pistons on both sides of the rotor. It applies equal pressure on both sides, further enhancing the brake performance. Such types of calipers are fixed and cannot slide, thus reducing the flexing and improving contact between the pad and the motor.
Common problems of brake calipers
Just like other automotive parts, the brake calipers face issues over time. A few of the problems include-
- Uneven brake pad wear
- Squeaking and grinding noises
- Brake fluid leaks
- Sticking calipers
“Keep check of brake calipers, you might encounter trouble on the road”
If you notice any of the above problems, you should check your brake calipers to prevent an accident and ensure your safety.
Ways to maintain brake calipers
You can maintain brake calipers through following way-
- Regularly cleaning the calipers to remove dust and grime.
- Keeping check of brake pads to prevent further damage to the rotors and calipers.
- Lubricating the contact points between calipers and brake pads can smoothen their movement.
- Do not overload the vehicle as it can strain the brakes.
Conclusion
Overall, brake calipers it important part of the braking system that ensures your safety and efficiency. It is the key to slow down or make a controlled stop to help drive safely. It is necessary to perform regular inspections to take care of calipers as your and your vehicle’s safety depends on them.
If you are facing any issues with brake calipers, it is the right time for you to get high-quality calipers for your brake system. Buy brake parts and car spare parts that meet international standards at JCBL India.
FAQ’s
Are brake calipers universal?
No, brake calipers are not universal. They are built differently to fit specific models perfectly. Also, they vary based on the application of your vehicle.
Can the brake caliper go bad?
Yes, brake calipers can go bad which can reduce brake efficiency. The key symptoms of bad brake calipers include uneven brake pad wear, fluid leaks, and grinding noise.
When do brake calipers need to be replaced?
Brake calipers have a long life. But they need replacement in case of damage or failure to slow down or stop the vehicle properly.
What happens if you don’t replace calipers?
The damaged caliper can lead to uneven braking or a car pulling on one side. Furthermore, you might lose control of the vehicle. thus, you should not drive the vehicle with a damaged caliper.
