Brake caliper
Brake caliper: The unsung hero of your vehicle's braking system. When it comes to your vehicle's braking system, the caliper brakes it may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But make no mistake, this small but vital component plays a key role in ensuring that your vehicle stops safely and smoothly every time you hit the brakes.
So what exactly is a caliper and how does it work? Let's take a closer look. What is a brake caliper? A brake caliper is a device that holds the brake pads and applies pressure to them, causing them to tighten against the rotor and stop the vehicle. It is usually located behind the wheel and is connected to the brake hose that carries the brake fluid to the caliper.
There are two main types of brake calipers: floating calipers and fixed calipers. Floating calipers are the most common type and feature a single piston that moves back and forth to apply pressure to the brake pads. Fixed calipers, on the other hand, have multiple pistons on each side of the rotor and are commonly found on vehicles high performance.
Brake caliper
How does it work; When you depress the brake pedal, brake fluid is forced through the brake hose and into the brake caliper. This causes the piston(s) to move, which in turn puts pressure on the brake pads. The brake pads then clamp the rotor, causing friction and slowing the vehicle. Once you release the brake pedal, the pressure in the brake lines is relieved and the brake pads are released from the rotor. The brake caliper then returns to its original position, ready for the next time you need to apply the brakes.
Why is the brake caliper important? Without a functioning brake caliper, your vehicle's braking system would not be able to function properly. A worn or damaged brake caliper can cause uneven wear on the brake pads and rotor, leading to reduced braking performance and potentially dangerous driving conditions.