Brake Caliper Buying Guide
Last updated: 24 April 2026
Brake calipers house the brake pads and use hydraulic pressure to clamp them against the disc. Seized or leaking calipers cause uneven braking, pulling to one side, and excessive pad wear. At CarParts247 we stock OEM and aftermarket brake calipers from ATE, TRW, and Brembo to cover all popular vehicles.
Symptoms of a faulty brake caliper
Caliper problems usually develop on one wheel, causing asymmetric braking. Symptoms range from subtle pulling to severe binding and overheating.
- Vehicle pulls to one side under braking — caliper not releasing or applying unevenly
- One wheel is noticeably hotter than the others after driving
- Brake fluid leak around the caliper piston or bleed nipple
- Uneven pad wear — inner and outer pads wear at different rates
- Grinding or dragging noise from one corner when driving
Slide pin maintenance and rebuild vs replace
Floating calipers rely on slide pins to centre the caliper over the disc. Corroded or dry pins cause the caliper to stick. Cleaning and re-greasing pins during pad changes prevents many caliper faults.
- Clean and re-grease slide pins every time you change brake pads
- Use high-temperature silicone grease — not copper grease on rubber seals
- Rebuild kits (piston seal + dust boot) are cost-effective for minor leaks
- If the caliper bore is pitted or scored, replacement is the only safe option
- Always replace calipers in pairs (both sides of the same axle) for balanced braking
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Seized or leaking brake calipers — symptoms, slide pin maintenance, and when to repair vs replace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my brake caliper is seized?
A seized caliper causes the vehicle to pull to one side under braking or when releasing the brakes. The affected wheel may also be noticeably hotter and show uneven pad wear.
Can I rebuild a brake caliper?
Yes, if the bore is smooth and undamaged. Rebuild kits include a new piston seal and dust boot. If the bore is pitted or corroded, the caliper must be replaced.
Should I replace both brake calipers?
If one caliper has failed, the other is likely the same age and condition. Replacing both ensures balanced braking. At minimum, service the opposite caliper when replacing one.
What brands make reliable brake calipers?
ATE, TRW, and Brembo are OEM suppliers to major vehicle manufacturers. Remanufactured calipers from quality brands are also a cost-effective option.
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ABS and ESC warning lights — wheel speed sensor diagnosis, reluctor ring checks, and replacement guide.
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