Big Brake Kits (BBK)
Brake calipers are the metal housing for brake pads and is positioned over the brake disc rotor like a clamp. When the driver applies pressure to the brake pedal, the hydraulic system initiate contact with the pads on the rotor to reduce vehicle speed through friction.
Suboptimal braking conditions will create inefficiency of operation, so the manufacturers endeavour to combat any problems. Noise levels generated by braking is a factor to consider and preferably to minimise. Brake dust is an inevitable and unwanted by-product, a problem that should ideally be kept to a minimum. A well designed brake caliper will have sufficient protection against dust interrupting its functionality, although maintenance also plays an important part. Brake fade occurs when the temperature of the brake pad surface in contact with the brake disc loses its stopping power.
The majority of stock brake caliper are typically made from iron or steel, both of which are fine for road use. Track focused cars will require an upgraded unit, often made from aluminium, alloy or ceramic and offer increased strength and performance at a lower weight. Upgraded brake calipers achieve increased stopping efficiency by increasing the caliper piston area impacting the rotor radius, achieved by increasing the size and/or number of pistons. Remember when upgrading brake calipers the space between brake discs and the alloy wheel interior is a limiting factor. Unfortunately, this isn't an exact science where measurements can be taken and considered, so there may be an element of trial and error. Changing the alloy wheel size to generate more clearance is an option
Stock brake calipers are fine for everyday road use, but when you increase power or drive aggressively, they often become a limiting factor. Upgraded calipers offer increased stopping efficiency by increasing the caliper piston area impacting the rotor radius—achieved through larger size and/or more pistons.
Performance-focused cars benefit from lighter materials like aluminium or alloy, reducing unsprung weight for better handling. Ceramic calipers provide even greater heat resistance, vital for track days where brake fade is a concern.
However, upgrading isn't always straightforward. You need to ensure the new calipers fit within your wheel wells and are compatible with your rotors. It’s worth considering that larger brakes require more force from your master cylinder so it may also need to be upgraded too!
Driving with a bad brake caliper is extremely risky. It drastically reduces your braking performance, increasing your stopping distance significantly. This can lead to accidents and serious injury.
A failing caliper can also cause uneven wear on other brake components like rotors and pads, leading to even more expensive repairs down the line. In severe cases, a seized caliper can overheat, potentially causing a fire.
Don’t take chances with your safety – if you suspect a bad caliper, stop driving the vehicle and have it towed to a mechanic for inspection and repair. It's simply not worth the risk!
Several symptoms can indicate a failing brake caliper. A common sign is pulling to one side while braking – this means one caliper isn’t applying even pressure.
Other indicators include: a spongy or soft brake pedal, uneven brake pad wear (one pad wears down much faster than the other), brake squealing noises that don't go away when you apply the brakes, or fluid leaking from around the caliper. A vibrating brake pedal is also a bad sign.
If you notice any of these symptoms, get your braking system inspected immediately by a qualified mechanic. Ignoring it could lead to reduced stopping power and a dangerous situation.
Replacing a brake caliper can vary significantly in price, depending on the vehicle make/model, whether you’re doing it yourself or using a mechanic, and the quality of parts. Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $800+ per caliper.
The caliper itself usually costs between $80 - $300 new. Labor charges for professional installation can range from $75-$250 per caliper. High-performance or remanufactured calipers will be pricier.
It’s generally recommended to replace brake calipers in pairs (both front or both rear) even if only one is faulty, to ensure balanced braking performance. Don't forget the cost of new brake pads and potentially rotors too!
Brake calipers house the brake pads and squeeze them against the brake rotors (discs) when you hit the brakes. Think of it like a clamp – the caliper applies pressure to stop your wheels turning.
Inside each caliper are pistons that push the brake pads into contact with the rotor. This friction is what slows down or stops your vehicle. The force from your brake pedal is transferred through hydraulic fluid to these pistons, multiplying your foot power.
Without functioning calipers, you simply wouldn’t be able to stop safely. They're a critical component of your braking system and directly impact stopping distance and control.
