Brake Calipers are a part of the disc brake systems present at the front and some cases, the rear of the car. The Caliper supplies the brake fluid from the master cylinder when the brake pedal is pressed. This fluid applies the pressure required to slow or stop the car. Usually, there are 2 or 4 brake Calipers in a car. Cars with 4 rotors have 4 Calipers while the ones with two rotors have 2 Calipers
With time, the Calipers can accumulate dust and rust which might lead to the leaking of the brake fluid. Sometimes, the seals inside the Calipers are also broken which can again lead to fluid leakage. In such cases, you need a brake caliper replacement service which is usually a part of your brake service. In most cases, when the calipers are worn out, the brake pad wears out too. This means you will need to replace the brake pads as well.
Why do you need Brake Caliper Replacement?
A defective brake Caliper makes it difficult for you to apply brakes properly, which can prove to be a safety hazard. So, this problem shouldn’t be ignored and brake Caliper replacement should be done as soon as you notice the problem. Moreover, ignoring small problems like these often take a toll on your car’s health and end up creating bigger problems that require higher budgets.
When is it the Right Time to Replace Brake Calipers?
Some of the common symptoms of brake Caliper replacement are:
- You suddenly start hearing a squeaking noise from the brakes.
- When you apply the brake, the car pulls hard to one of the sides
- Brake pedals feel softer or spongier and it requires much lesser pressure to apply the brake
- You notice the leakage of the brake fluid around the wheels or beneath the car
Suggested for you: Power Steering Fluid Service
How is Brake Caliper Replacement done?
If you face any of the above issues, take your car to an expert mechanic for inspection. If they find any problem with the Calipers, they will follow the below-enumerated steps to replace them:
- Remove the defective Calipers and brake pads
- Install new Calipers and pads
- Check the brake rotors and brake line hoses
- Replace the Brake fluid as well
- Inspect the entire brake system for fluid leaks or any other issues
- Bleed the brake system and torqued the wheels to factory specifications
- Test the car to check the performance of the brakes
Wrapping up
The best way to ensure a safe and smooth ride is to keep up with the maintenance schedule suggested in your car’s owner manual. Delaying maintenance and repair work almost always creates more problems than solutions.
Ideally, you should get your brake system serviced and the brake fluid replaced at every 30.000 miles. If you feel the braking system is not functioning properly, get it checked by Swezo’s certified mechanics have the brake Calipers and brake pads replaced when required.