Symptoms of a Bad Brake Caliper: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

A hydraulic brake caliper is used to help stop your car by converting hydraulic pressure that forces the brake pads onto the brake rotor. When this part goes bad it can hinder the braking performance of the car and cause safely issues. In this guide we go over the potential problems the brake caliper can cause.

What Goes Wrong?

A caliper will typical leak between the piston and seal, or the piston will seize in the caliper bore causing the brake to lock up and not release.

Leaking Brake Fluid:

This is caused by the caliper piston developing rust and corrosion near housing seal. Leaks are caused by moisture and dirt in the brake fluid which damages the rubber caliper piston seal. When the piston is reset during a normal brake job (pushed back inward into the caliper housing) to except the new brake pads it can damage the seal and cause a leak. This seal should be okay for the first or second pad replacement, but the brake caliper should be replaced after the third brake job or if the car has sat for an extended period of time. A leak will cause the brake system warning light to come on because of the low fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir.

Overheating Brakes:

The brake system depends on the brake calipers ability to fully release after each braking event. If the caliper slides or internal piston is seized due to rust or corrosion the caliper with hold brake pressure on slightly which will cause the brake rotor to overheat. In this case the caliper must be removed and the slides and piston need to inspected to ensure smooth movement, and if not, the caliper should be replaced if the piston is seized or the caliper slides disassembled and cleaned.

Brake Pull:

When a caliper malfunctions it can fail to provide brake pressure to a particular brake rotor which will cause a brake pull on the opposite side of the car that is having the issue. This condition will be less pronounced if the problem exists on one of the rear calipers.

Uneven Brake Pad Wear:

Most brake caliper are "floating" meaning they can move in a linear fashion. This allows the brake to apply force and then release, if the caliper slides have friction due to lack of lubrication it will cause irregular braking or pad wear characteristics.

One Wheel Lock Up:

In sever instances a brake caliper will not release causing the car to have one wheel that is locked up. In this case the caliper must be replaced and not rebuilt.

How Much Does It Cost?

When doing a brake job replacing the brake caliper is the textbook way of doing it. Many repair garage's will recommend replacement by making a judgment call and determined the condition of the brake system. In other words if the car has many miles on it then the caliper has a good chance of leaking, but if the car had low miles they would probably let it slide. Most replacement brake calipers are rebuilt which cost between $45.00 and $80.00 (US) each. If you are having the job done at a shop expect to pay between $190.00 and $250.00 (US) for both sides.

How Long Do Brake Calipers Last?

Your brake calipers should be replaced anytime your car has over 80,000 to 120,000 miles. If pads are not included get a set of high quality pads with rotors and do a complete brake job. They are not that expensive and it's the correct way to complete the job.

Helpful Information

Brake fluid is corrosive and will damage your vehicle’s finish. If this fluid comes in contact with a painted surface quickly wipe it with a clean cloth and then wash the area with soap and water and you should be okay. The brake system should always be flushed and bled when brake work is performed to prevent moisture which creates rust. Anytime the brake system is opened a brake system bleed is necessary.

Watch the Video!

Please watch this video of the job being done to glean additional helpful information.

Credits

This guide knowledge base was created by the 2CarPros Team, and by Ken Lavacot: Automobile repair shop owner and certified master automobile technician of over 30 years. If you have question or need help please ask one of our experts we are happy to help. Please visit our 2CarPros YouTube Channel.