You’re not the only one who hears crickets chirping when the word “brake callipers” is spoken. However, the purpose of callipers is often misunderstood, even though they play an essential role in adequately operating your vehicle’s brakes.
When you press the brake pedal, your vehicle’s callipers are integral to the stopping mechanism.
To say they’re crucial to the functioning of the braking system is an understatement. So, let’s dissect what they are, why they’re essential, and how you can maintain them in tip-top form.
Most modern vehicles have disc brakes on the front wheels, and these brakes use a component called a calliper.
What is a Brake Caliper?
The brake calliper stores the braking pads and pistons of your vehicle. The automobile’s wheels are slowed down by the friction created between the braking rotors and the brake pads.
When the brakes are applied, the calliper clamps down on the rotor to prevent the wheel from rotating. A set of brake pads made of metal are housed within each calliper.
You may slow your vehicle by applying pressure to the brake pedal, which in turn applies pressure to the brake fluid, forcing the brake pads against the braking rotor.
When it comes to the brakes, how do the callipers fit in?
Tubes, pipes, and valves carry braking fluid from the master cylinder to the calliper assembly within the wheel. We could go on and on about brake callipers, but we will refrain from doing so. The brake callipers are a crucial part of your vehicle.
When must brake callipers be replaced?
The brakes create a lot of heat; over time, under typical driving circumstances, that heat may weaken and tear down the seals within the callipers.
If you don’t use your brakes often, they may rust, become dusty, contaminate, and leak brake fluid.
However, if you notice any of the following, it’s time to have your brakes checked:
- That squeaking, screaming, or grinding noise coming from your brakes is relentless
- The warning light for your brakes or (ABS) comes on when you apply the brakes, your vehicle shudders or tugs to one way when you use the brakes, and you need to press your brakes for them to function correctly.
- The average hardness or sponginess of your brake pedal is absent or present.
- Brake fluid leaks near the wheels or engine, a significant safety hazard.
