Brake Engineering CA1533 - Brake Caliper

A brake caliper is a device that clamps the brake pads against the brake rotor to slow down the vehicle. It is located on the outside of the wheel, and it is connected to the brake pedal by a cable.

The brake caliper works by using hydraulic pressure to move the brake pads against the brake rotor. When the brake pedal is pressed, the hydraulic fluid in the caliper is pushed out, which moves the brake pads against the brake rotor. The friction between the brake pads and the brake rotor slows down the vehicle.

There are two main types of brake calipers: single-piston and multi-piston. Single-piston calipers have one piston that moves the brake pads against the brake rotor. Multi-piston calipers have two or more pistons that move the brake pads against the brake rotor.

Multi-piston calipers are more efficient than single-piston calipers because they have more surface area to apply the brakes. They also dissipate heat better than single-piston calipers.

Brake calipers are an important part of the braking system, and they need to be maintained regularly to ensure that they are working properly. The brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 miles or two years, and the brake rotors should be replaced every 50,000 miles or four years.

If the brake caliper is not working properly, it can cause a number of problems, including:

• The vehicle will not slow down as quickly.
• The vehicle will pull to one side when the brakes are applied.
• The vehicle will make a squealing noise when the brakes are applied.
• The vehicle will overheat.

If you suspect that the brake caliper is not working properly, it is important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic.