Common Causes of Brake Caliper Failure
Brake calipers play a crucial role in your vehicle’s braking system, applying the pressure needed to push the brake pads against the brake discs and slow your car down.
Despite being built for durability, they can fail over time, creating potential risks on the road. Here, we explore the most common causes of brake caliper failure and how you can avoid them.
CORROSION AND RUST
Corrosion is one of the leading causes of brake caliper failure, especially in areas where roads are salted in winter. Exposure to moisture, dirt, and road salt causes the metal components of the calipers to rust. This buildup can lead to the caliper seizing, which prevents it from moving freely and keeps the brake pads from engaging or disengaging properly.
Corrosion can also affect the pistons within the caliper, causing them to stick. When this happens, pressure is applied unevenly to the brake pads, leading to poor braking performance and uneven wear. To help avoid corrosion, it's important to regularly wash your vehicle, especially after driving in winter conditions. Having your calipers inspected as part of your routine maintenance will also help catch any early signs of rust before it causes serious damage.
LEAKING BRAKE FLUID
Brake fluid is essential for your calipers to work properly, as it works under the hydraulic pressure needed to engage the brake pads. Over time, however, the seals inside the caliper can wear down, leading to fluid leaks. This reduces the pressure in your braking system, which can make it harder for you to stop the vehicle and result in a soft or spongy brake pedal.
Brake fluid leaks are often easy to spot, either by checking your fluid levels or noticing a small puddle near your tyres. If you see signs of a leak or feel a difference in your brake pedal’s responsiveness, it’s time to have your braking system checked. Catching a leak early can prevent more severe damage to the caliper.
WORN OR DAMAGED SEALS
The seals inside the caliper are designed to keep brake fluid in and dirt out. However, these seals can deteriorate with time due to exposure to high temperatures or harsh driving conditions. Once the seals are worn or damaged, they can allow fluid to leak and let moisture or debris into the system, which can cause the pistons to seize or corrode.
To avoid this, it’s crucial to replace worn seals during routine maintenance and keep the braking system in good shape. If your car has been driven in challenging conditions or has high mileage, investing in high-quality seals can help extend the lifespan of your calipers and prevent costly repairs down the line.
STICKING CALIPERS
A common problem with brake calipers is when they begin to stick, meaning they don't fully release after the brakes are applied. This leaves the brake pads constantly pressed against the disc, causing unnecessary friction that leads to excessive pad wear and can overheat the braking system.
Sticking calipers are usually caused by debris or corrosion building up on the guide pins, which are responsible for the caliper's movement. Sometimes, it’s simply a lack of lubrication on these moving parts. Ensuring that the guide pins are kept clean and properly lubricated during routine brake servicing can prevent calipers from sticking and keep the braking system working efficiently.
WARPED OR UNEVEN BRAKE DISCS
If your brake discs are warped, it can cause the brake calipers to apply uneven pressure. This not only affects the performance of your brakes but also forces the caliper to work harder than normal, leading to premature wear. Warped discs are usually caused by prolonged exposure to high temperature, such as during aggressive braking or while towing heavy loads.
Regularly inspecting your brake discs for signs of warping or uneven wear can help identify issues before they affect your calipers. If you notice vibrations or shaking while braking, it’s a good idea to have your discs checked and possibly resurfaced or replaced.
OVERHEATING
Heavy braking or long downhill driving can cause the braking system to overheat, which affects the caliper’s ability to function properly. When calipers overheat, the hydraulic fluid inside can boil, leading to reduced pressure and brake fade. Over time, overheating can damage the seals, pistons, and other components of the caliper, leading to failure.
To avoid overheating, try to avoid riding the brakes for long periods of time, especially when driving downhill. Instead, use engine braking when possible. Regular brake maintenance will also help ensure the system is functioning optimally and that any heat-related damage is addressed before it becomes a bigger problem.
IMPROPER INSTALLATION OR MAINTENANCE
Sometimes, brake caliper issues are the result of improper installation or insufficient maintenance. If calipers aren’t installed correctly, they may not align with the brake disc, leading to uneven wear and poor braking performance. Similarly, skipping routine maintenance, such as replacing worn brake pads or failing to inspect the caliper’s moving parts, can lead to failure.
Ensuring that any brake work is done by a qualified mechanic can prevent many of these issues. Proper installation and regular maintenance will keep your braking system running smoothly and help avoid more expensive repairs down the line.
RECOGNISING THE COMMON CAUSES OF BRAKE CALIPER FAILURE
Brake caliper failure can be a serious safety concern, but by understanding the common causes, you can take steps to prevent it. From corrosion and leaking brake fluid to overheating and improper installation, there are several factors that can compromise your braking system. Regular maintenance, proper care, and early detection of problems are key to keeping your calipers in top condition and ensuring your vehicle remains safe on the road.