Brake Caliper Replacement

Brake Caliper Replacement Costs

The average brake caliper replacement cost varies depending on your car model and preferred service station.

If you’re confident about doing the job yourself, you can save money by fixing the caliper yourself. The average price ranges from $50 – $100 depending on the work required. Otherwise, professional service would set you back anywhere between $861 and $896. The cost of labor ranges between $132 and $167.

What Is A Caliper, And How Does It Work?

The brake caliper is a critical component in any disc brake system.

It has two main functions; one, the brake caliper holds the brake pads in place, either on the rotor or on the caliper itself. Secondly, they rely on their clamp-like mechanism that uses hydraulic pressure to compress brake pads against the rotor to produce friction.

Essentially, a brake caliper can stop the spinning wheel of your car by squeezing onto the rotor disc. Cars can have either two or four disks, and depending on this, they have either one or two, brake calipers.

There are two main types of calipers;

1. A single-piston
2. A dual-piston

Most cars use a single-piston caliper for the rear brakes. With less braking force needed, you don’t need much pressure on the breaks.

The brake calipers soak up much heat produced from the braking system. Over time, this heat tends to damage or weaken the seals in the caliper. It is most likely that a damaged caliper means worn-out brake pads. When you take care of the caliper repair, you also need to check on the brake pads.

Symptoms of A Bad Brake Caliper

Brake calipers last for a long time, but they fail sometimes. The root cause is driving with worn-out brake pads and warped rotors, which are the leading cause of brake failure.

These two keep the brake system from dissolving when subjected to high amounts of friction, which causes damage to the calipers. When the brake pads are not deep enough to protect the caliper from heat, the heat may pass to the brake fluid, which causes damage.

Some of the signs to keep an eye for include:

• Leak in the brake fluid illustrated by clear liquid on the driveway or wheels.
• Burning smell while driving, usually from overheating brakes.
• When your vehicle pulls to one side while braking.
• Spongy or uneven brake pads.
• Squeaking or grinding noises while braking.
• When the brakes are not letting go or releasing.
• When the brake light is on. This typically is an indication that your car’s braking system requires servicing.

How To Replace A Damaged Brake Caliper

1. Remove the damaged caliper and pads and replace them with new ones.
2. Examine the brake rotors
3. Check the brake line hoses for any wear or leaks.
4. Refill or change the brake fluid.
5. Re-examine the brake system for any fluid leaks.
6. Bleed the brake system. It is always good to have someone help if you are doing this alone.
7. Torque wheels to factory specifications.
8. Check and test the brake system performance.

Significant Maintenance Tips

• During brake system service, perform regular maintenance with high-temp brake grease on the sliding mechanism to preserve the full range of motion. If you don’t, the calipers may lock, leaving you with just one pad that presses the rotor.
• Visual inspection of the caliper dust boots is essential. These boots are made of rubber and surround the caliper piston and the two slide pins to keep dirt and moisture away from them. Fix any damage as soon as you notice any in the boots.
• Regularly check the brake service as recommended by the manufacturers.

Importance of This Service?

Every service related to the optimal function of your brakes is crucial. Ignoring caliper or brake repairs can quickly result in more severe and sometimes expensive issues. Inspect the condition of your car’s brake pads and rotors regularly.