Most cars these days have two brake calipers in front, and some cars even have four on all the wheels. Modern disc brakes have calipers and older drum brakes have shoes. A problematic brake caliper is a dangerous situation because it impacts your ability to stop quickly.
What is a Brake Caliper, and What Does it Do?
The brake caliper of your BMW houses the brake pads and pistons. As part of the disc brake system, it slows your car or SUV down by applying force to the brake pads. When you apply pressure to your brake pedal, the brake fluid forces its way through the caliper lines, activating the pistons that squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotor. The friction created between the brake pads and rotor slows your BMW down.
Why do brake calipers fail?
Brake calipers can malfunction for several reasons. Make sure you seek out advice from a professional mechanic about your BMW’s #1 safety system:
- Overheating: Worn-out brake pads and twisted rotors create havoc on the brake calipers and the braking system by overheating and eventually destroying the components.
- Pistons Seizing Up: The pistons clamp the brake pads onto the disc to stop the car. If this stops working, the system will fail.
- Corrosion: Moisture, road salt, and other contaminants can cause the calipers to rust and corrode, affecting performance.
- Sticky Pads: Debris and moisture can make the brake pads stick.
- Leaks: Any loss of brake fluid will lead to loss of hydraulic pressure. This will affect the performance of the brake caliper because it requires brake fluid pressure (hydraulic pressure) to slow the vehicle down.
- Bad Brake Lines: If there is air in the brake lines, it will cause improper hydraulic pressure, and the caliper will not be able to function as intended.
- Problematic Master Cylinder: Also called the brake pump, this component changes mechanical force into hydraulic pressure. If this malfunctions the caliper is rendered useless.
Warning Signs That Your Brake Caliper is Failing
If your BMW’s brake caliper is failing, you may notice some of these indications.
- Unresponsive Brake Pedal: If your brake pedal feels spongy, too stiff, or too loose, it may mean that the brake components have worn out.
- Leaking Brake Fluid: If your Bimmer is losing brake fluid, this is a surefire sign that you may have a failing brake caliper.
- Uneven Wear on Brake Pads: When the brake caliper is stuck, it will cause the brake pads to wear unevenly.
- Burning Smell: A worn-out caliper pin may cause this issue. You might get a burning smell every time you use your brake and come to a stop.
- Noisy Brakes: A problematic brake caliper will often produce high-pitched, squealing This is done on purpose so you know when it’s time to have them replaced. There may be signs before this noise, so if you suspect it’s time to replace them, come in as soon as you can for your safety.
- Car Drags to One Side When Braking: If you notice your Beemer is pulling to one side when you are braking, it may be due to the brake pad wearing out.
- Brake Warning Light: This is part of the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) system. If you see this light in your dashboard, it means there is something wrong with your braking system. The only way to know the exact problem is to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose it by using a scanner to read the error codes your car is throwing.
Visit JCL Automotive Today
If you suspect your BMW may have a failing brake caliper, make sure you have a detailed brake inspection done by a professional. This is a matter of your own safety and the safety of others on the road. The best way to avoid serious and expensive problems with your BMW is to have it regularly maintained. This way you will be able to address issues at their early stages, saving you major headaches and expense. We can help with the regular maintenance of your BMW.
At JCL Automotive, we are here to help you with your car problems. Our highly-trained staff will answer all your questions. Call us or make an appointment to visit us in Hellertown, Pennsylvania.