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How a brake caliper works
When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is forced through the brake lines and into the brake caliper. The brake fluid pressurizes the caliper, causing a piston or pistons to move outwards. As the piston or pistons move outwards, they push the brake pads against the brake rotors. The brake pads create friction with the rotors, slowing or stopping the vehicle. When the brake pedal is released, the brake fluid pressure is relieved, allowing the piston or pistons to return to their original position and releasing the brake pads from the rotors.
There are two main types of brake calipers: sliding calipers and fixed calipers. Sliding calipers have a single piston that moves back and forth to apply pressure to the brake pads, while fixed calipers have multiple pistons that move outward to apply pressure to the pads. Both types of calipers are designed to apply equal pressure to both brake pads, ensuring that the vehicle stops evenly.
How to recognize symptoms of a bad brake caliper
Several symptoms may indicate a problem with a brake caliper:
- Squealing or grinding noises when braking – If you hear a loud, high-pitched noise when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of a problem with the brake caliper. The noise may be caused by a stuck caliper or a worn brake pad.
- Brake pedal feels spongy or soft – If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press down on it, it could be caused by a brake fluid leak, which could also cause the brake pedal to feel hard or firm.
- Brake pads are worn unevenly – If one brake pad is wearing down faster than the other, the brake caliper may not be applying equal pressure to both brake pads, causing one pad to wear down faster than the other.
- Brake warning light is on – If the brake warning light on your dashboard is illuminated, it could indicate a problem with the brake caliper, typically a leak that results in low fluid.
- Vehicle pulls to one side when braking – If your vehicle seems to pull to one side when you apply the brakes, the caliper may not be applying equal pressure to both brake pads, causing the vehicle to pull to one side.
As well, if you notice excessive heat emanating from the rotor or wheel after going for a drive, it’s a sign the caliper is seized.
Tools you need for the job
Gather all the necessary tools and equipment to get the job done right. If you don’t have any of these tools, you can find them at AutoZone for purchase, and some might be available through the Loan-A-Tool program.
You will need:
- A lug wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- A brake caliper tool
- Torque wrench
- C-clamp
- A brake hose wrench
- A brake bleeding kit
- And, of course, a new brake caliper.
When you’re replacing a caliper, always top up the brake fluid using the correct spec indicated on the reservoir cap, and only from a new, unopened container.
Steps to replace a brake caliper
If you are comfortable with car repairs and have the necessary tools, you can replace the brake caliper yourself. The process might vary slightly for different makes and models. Here are the general steps to replace a brake caliper.
1. Lift the vehicle
Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the tire and then use the jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. Secure the vehicle with jack stands.
2. Remove the tire
Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and then remove the tire from the vehicle.
3. Remove the caliper mounting bolts
Use the brake caliper tool to remove the caliper mounting bolts that hold the caliper in place.
4. Remove the caliper
Once the mounting bolts are removed, gently pry the caliper off the brake rotor. Be careful not to damage the brake hose as you remove the caliper.
5. Install the new caliper
Place the new caliper over the brake rotor and secure it in place with the caliper mounting bolts. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications using a torque wrench.
6. Install the tire
Replace the tire and lug nuts, torque to spec, and then lower the vehicle off the jack stands.
7. Bleed the brake system
Use a brake bleeding kit to remove any air from the brake system. This is an important step to ensure that the brakes are working properly. Continually top up the fluid in the reservoir as you bleed the brakes.
8. Test the brakes
Once the brake caliper is installed and the brake system has been bled, test the brakes to ensure they are functioning properly.
Additional How-to Resources
Shop for the parts you need to replace a brake caliper as well as the tools to complete the job at AutoZone. If you decide that replacing a brake caliper is too big a job to tackle on your own, let AutoZone help you find qualified professional mechanics through our Shop Referral Program.
FAQ/People Also Ask
Is it easy to replace brake calipers?
Brake caliper replacement isn’t difficult, but since part that’s needed for safe braking, there’s no room for error when changing it.
Can you replace brake calipers at home?
A DIYer can change a brake caliper in about an hour at home, but it requires the right tools to get the job done.
Do you need to bleed brakes after replacing caliper?
Removing a brake caliper introduces air into the fluid. Bleeding the brakes of any air is crucial for the brakes to operate properly afterward.
How much does it cost to replace a caliper?
The average brake caliper is around $150 in parts. If you’re having a shop replace it for you, expect between one and two hours of labor as well.
Is it OK to replace just one caliper?
Since brake calipers aren’t a wear item, it’s alright to replace only the part that has failed if it’s an OEM replacement. For peace of mind or if you’re the new caliper isn’t the same spec, calipers should be replaced as a pair.
What happens if you drive with a broken caliper?
It’s ill-advised to drive with a bad caliper since you can’t depend on the brakes to function properly. You could get into an accident.
