Brake calipers
Car brake calipers are a crucial component of a vehicle's disc brake system as they house the car brake pads and pistons. They are responsible for slowing down or stopping the car by creating friction on the brake rotors when the brake pedal is pushed. There are several types of brake calipers used in cars, each with its own unique advantage.
They are typically made of aluminium or steel and can be either single or multiple piston designs, with each caliper having a pair of metal plates inside which are known as the brake pads.
Maintaining a proper brake caliper function is essential for safe driving, and regular inspections and replacements are necessary to ensure optimal braking performance.
Types of brake calipers
The type of brake caliper used in a car depends on a number of factors, including the vehicle's performance requirements, the size, weight of the vehicle, and the driver's preferences. Each type of brake caliper has its own unique benefits and so it is important to choose the right type of caliper for your specific needs.
Floating Calipers
Floating calipers are the most common type of brake caliper used in cars today. They are relatively simple and consist of a single piston that moves within the caliper. When the brakes are applied, the single piston pushes against one brake pad, as the piston pushes against the pad, it applies pressure to the brake pad, which clamps down on the rotor, creating the necessary friction to slow the vehicle down.
Sliding Calipers
Sliding calipers are similar to floating calipers, in that they use a single piston to apply pressure to the brake pads. However, unlike floating calipers, sliding calipers are mounted directly onto the brake rotor, which makes them more stable and less likely to flex under heavy braking.
Fixed Calipers
Fixed calipers are a more advanced type of brake caliper, more often seen in a high performance vehicles. They use multiple pistons to apply pressure to the brake pads and unlike floating calipers, fixed calipers are mounted directly onto the brake rotor and don’t move during the braking process. Fixed calipers are regarded as more stable and less likely to flex under heavy braking, which in turn, provides a more consistent braking performance and reduces brake fade.
Piston Calipers
Piston calipers are a type of brake caliper used in disc brake systems that utilize hydraulic pressure to slow or stop a vehicle's. They work by using one or more pistons to apply pressure to brake pads, which in turn press against the brake rotor to create friction and slow the vehicle down. This design provides more even pressure distribution across the brake pads, which results in better braking performance and less brake fade.
Find out more information on Bridgestone tyre and auto services
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Logbook Servicing
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Brakes
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Suspension
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Mechanical Repairs
Frequently asked questions
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Five signs you need brake caliper repaired?Brake calipers should last the life of the vehicle, however in some circumstances that doesn’t happen. If you notice some of the below, be sure to visit your local Bridgestone for competent diagnosis and assessment.- When braking, the vehicle pulls to one side
- Squeaking or squealing noises when you apply the brakes
- Leaking brake fluid on the ground
- Brake pads are wearing down unevenly
- Vehicle takes longer to come to a stop or requires more effort to apply the brakes
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How much does a brake calipers replacement service cost?
A brake calipers replacement cost will be dependent on the car's make & model and the grade of brake caliper used in the repair. If multiple calipers are needed to be replaced, the cost can increase accordingly. Additionally, if other brake components, such as rotors or brake pads also need replacement, the cost can further increase.
Your local Bridgestone has a qualified auto service technician who will be able to assist with all your brake caliper requirements and be able to communicate any costs involved with your service.
To get a price on a qualified brake calipers replacement service, be sure to contact your nearest Bridgestone store. -
Why are brake calipers important?
Car brake calipers are a vital component of a vehicle's brake system as they store the car brake pads and pistons. The pads and pistons inside the calipers are the components of the brakes that press against the rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle. Without maintaining the calipers, the pads and the pistons may also be damaged in some way which may enhance the likelihood of brake failure.
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