Car Brake Calipers: What They Are and How They Work

Have you ever wondered how your car stops when you press the brake pedal? One of the key components of your disc braking system is the brake caliper. In this article, we will explain what brake calipers are, how they work, and why they are important for your safety and performance.

What are brake calipers?

Brake calipers are metal devices that clamp around the brake rotor, which is a disc-shaped part that rotates with the wheel. The brake caliper houses the brake pads, which are friction materials that press against the rotor when you apply the brakes. The friction between the pads and the rotor slows down or stops the wheel, and thus the vehicle.

How do brake calipers work?

There are two main types of brake calipers: fixed and floating. Fixed calipers have pistons on both sides of the rotor, while floating calipers have only one piston on the inboard side. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is forced through the brake lines and into the caliper, pushing the pistons outwards. The pistons then squeeze the brake pads against the rotor, creating braking force.

Why are brake calipers important?

Brake calipers are essential for your car’s braking performance and safety. If your brake calipers are worn out, damaged, or seized, they can cause several problems, such as:

• Reduced braking power and longer stopping distances
• Uneven braking and pulling to one side
• Overheating and warping of the rotors
• Premature wear and tear of the brake pads
• Noisy and squeaky brakes

To avoid these issues, you should inspect your brake calipers regularly and replace them if necessary. You should also keep them lubricated and clean to prevent corrosion and sticking.

How to choose the best brake calipers for your car?

When it comes to choosing brake calipers for your car, there are several factors to consider, such as:

• The type of caliper: fixed or floating. Fixed calipers offer better performance and stability, but they are more expensive and heavier than floating calipers. Floating calipers are cheaper and lighter, but they can cause uneven pad wear and rotor distortion.
• The number of pistons: more pistons mean more clamping force and better heat dissipation, but they also increase the cost and weight of the caliper.
• The material of the caliper: most calipers are made of aluminium for its lightness and strength, but some high-end models use carbon or titanium for better durability and resistance to heat.
• The brand of the caliper: some of the leading brands in the market are Brembo, ACDelco, Raybestos, A-Premium, and Goodyear. They offer high-quality brake calipers that meet or exceed OE and SAE standards.

You should also check the compatibility of the caliper with your vehicle model and year, as well as with your rotor size and type.

Conclusion

Brake calipers are vital parts of your disc braking system that squeeze the brake pads against the rotor to slow or stop your car. They come in different types, sizes, materials, and brands, depending on your needs and preferences. You should maintain your brake calipers in good condition to ensure optimal braking performance and safety.