5 Signs Your Brake Caliper Is Faulty

Brake calipers play a big role in today's disc braking systems. The brake pads and discs, along with the rest of the hydraulic system, are used to slow and stop the vehicle. When the brake pedal is pushed, brake fluid is supplied via the master cylinder to the caliper, which expands the piston and presses the brake pads against the brake discs to slow and stop the vehicle.

Brake callipers are subjected to the strong heat released during braking over time and might eventually break, interfering with braking and significantly impacting the vehicle's handling and safety features.

For this safety reason, a faulty brake caliper will fail a MOT test, so it is recommended to have the brake caliper repaired or replaced before booking your next MOT testing service.

When a calliper fails, the vehicle will normally show one or more of the following five warning signals to alert the driver to a potential problem that requires attention:

1.      Leaking Brake Fluid - Brake fluid leaking is one of the most prevalent indicators of a damaged or failing caliper. The calipers work by extending the piston and slowing the car using braking fluid pressure from the master cylinder and pedal. The fluid is kept from seeping out by a rubber seal and boot. These seals will wear out and leak over time as a result of repeated exposure to the strong heat created by braking.Any brake calliper leaks will weaken the braking system's pressure sealing capability, causing not only a puddle of brake fluid but also a considerable reduction in the vehicle's stopping capabilities. Your car's MOT history checker will clearly mention that the failure was due to fluid leaks. You may witness a puddle under your vehicle and a burned rubber smell as a result of the leaking fluid.

2.      Decreased Braking Power - Though lower braking power can also be an indication of leaking brake fluid, it can also be a sign of a faulty brake caliper. It may appear like braking and coming to a complete stop requires more effort. The calliper pistons themselves may have been stuck due to dirt and grime accumulation in this situation. When the brakes are applied, they will feel spongy, and the caliper will not be able to fully clamp down. The inability to stop correctly might jeopardise the vehicle's safety, thus the problem should be addressed as soon as feasible. When you check MOT history of any vehicle, this is one of the most common reasons for failure.

3.      Unusual Sounds When Braking - Another potential problem with the brake caliper is abnormal noises from the wheels during braking. It might be a symptom of a loose, stuck, or binding caliper if you hear high-pitched noises, abrupt thudding, or impact sounds when applying the brakes. In this state, the brake calliper will not be able to stop the car correctly, and it may even cause premature brake wear. When you look up 'check my MOT history' online, you'll find this is another typical reason for MOT failure.

4.      Vehicle Pulling - A vehicle pulling to the left or right is another typical indicator of a calliper that needs to be replaced. Calipers are subjected to tremendous heat while braking, which can cause the calliper piston to seize. A seized calliper piston will be unable to retract mechanically, causing a continual drag on the wheel. As a result of the brake drag, the car will pull to the side with the afflicted caliper, as the wheel on that side is driving slower than the wheel on the opposing side.

5.      Brakes Stay Engaged While Driving - If your brakes feel like they're on even when your foot is off the brake pedal, it might be an indication of a jammed brake calipers. The old, filthy calipers might be locked in a position that prevents the brake pads from properly releasing. It may appear that the vehicle is working harder to accelerate, that it is dragging at high speeds, or that the parking brake has been left on. If not replaced, a jammed brake calipers will need to be repaired or replaced.