Choosing the best brake calipers for your vehicle can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know if you’re making the right choice.
When it comes to your vehicle’s performance and safety, calipers play an essential role. They help your vehicle stop on a dime, especially when it matters most.
Understanding the Function of Brake Calipers
Brake calipers are integral components of your vehicle’s braking system. They are responsible for clamping down on the brake pads, which then press against the rotors to create the friction needed to slow down or stop the vehicle. As your vehicle’s forward momentum is converted into heat energy through this friction, the brake calipers play a crucial role in ensuring that this process is efficient and controlled.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Brake Calipers for Your Vehicle
When looking for the best brake calipers for your vehicle, here are some essential factors to consider:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the new calipers are compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.
- Budget: Consider your budget and research options that offer the best value for your specific needs.
- Brand and Quality: Opt for a reputable brand, like PowerStop, that is known for high-quality brake components. Quality calipers are more likely to perform well and last longer, providing better safety and longevity.
- Coating: Some calipers come with a protective coating, such as powder coating, to resist corrosion and enhance durability. This can be particularly important if you live in a region with harsh weather conditions.
- Piston Number and Size: Different calipers have varying numbers and sizes of pistons. Larger pistons provide more stopping power, so consider your driving habits and needs. Some performance vehicles may benefit from multi-piston calipers.
PowerStop Powder Coated Calipers
PowerStop Powder Coated Calipers are ideal for any situation daily drivers may experience on the road. They are precision-engineered to fit your vehicle seamlessly, eliminating the need for any modifications. As an added bonus, the powder coating helps resist rust & corrosion.
Notable features of these calipers include:
- 100% Pressure Tested: All calipers are pressure tested to prevent leaks and thoroughly inspected for quality and safety.
- Brand New Components: Bleeder screws and pad attachment hardware complement remanufactured calipers and brackets.
- High-Temperature EPDM Rubber: High-temperature EPDM rubber extends life.
- Premium Silicone Lubrication: Premium silicone lubrication provides smoother operation.
PowerStop Autospecialty OE Replacement Brake Calipers
PowerStop is committed to providing top-quality performance brakes for nearly every vehicle on the road; that’s why we proudly offer PowerStop Autospecialty OE Replacement Brake Calipers that are precision-made to fit your vehicle. Sold individually, these calipers bolt on directly in place of stock calipers. All of the calipers are 100% pressure tested for leaks and inspected for overall quality and safety.
Included are all-new premium boots, seals, and high-temperature silicone lubricant for a complete, easy replacement for your vehicle’s stock calipers.
Signs of Brake Caliper Malfunction
Brake calipers are designed to endure more miles and driving than other braking components such as brake pads. Nevertheless, there are instances where this longevity expectation is not met. When a brake caliper malfunctions, it can lead to accelerated wear on the brake pads.
Brake Fluid Leakage Near the Tire Area
Modern braking systems rely on hydraulic pressure for operation. When a caliper leaks, you may detect the presence of oily patches on the ground close to your tires. However, it’s important to note that the issue might not be directly related to the caliper. Consulting with a trained technician can help to accurately diagnose and rectify the problem.
Uneven Brake Pad Wear
If you observe uneven wear on your brake pads, with one side noticeably thinner than the other, there’s a possibility that the brake caliper is to blame. To address this issue, it’s advisable to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop where a skilled technician can assess the problem.
High-Pitched Squealing or Metallic Grinding Noises
If you hear strange sounds coming from one of your brakes while you’re driving, it might be a sign that the brake caliper is stuck or not working properly. This is different from brake pad problems, which usually make noise when you press the brakes. If you ignore a stuck caliper, it could eventually cause your brakes to completely stop working, so it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible.
Vehicle Drifts or Pulls to One Side During Driving or Braking
Brake calipers house pistons that respond to hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder, enabling the brake pads to engage and release the brake rotor. If these pistons become immobilized due to debris or corrosion, the brake pads may struggle to either disengage from the rotor or make proper contact. In the former case, your vehicle will pull towards the side with the problematic caliper. In the latter case, the vehicle will veer away from the affected side, whether during braking or regular driving.
Audible Clunking Sound
While this symptom is less common than the others, it’s possible that a malfunctioning bracket holding the brake caliper in place could be the culprit. In these cases, the defective bracket generates a noticeable clunking sound during vehicle operation. If you encounter this situation, do not drive the vehicle, as it could result in a complete brake lockup, posing a severe safety risk to both the driver and other road users.
Have a Question? PowerStop Can Help
PowerStop is dedicated to delivering top-quality performance brakes for nearly every vehicle on the road. If you have a question about any of our products, contact us today online at [email protected] or toll-free at (888) 863-4415. Our customer service team is available to answer your questions Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST). Se habla español.
Back
