What is a brake caliper and how do I know if it is bad?

A brake caliper is the part that squeezes the brake pads against the rotor to slow your car, using hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid. You may have a bad caliper if you notice the car pulling to one side when braking, a burning smell, uneven pad wear, a dragging sensation, reduced fuel economy, or a wheel that feels hotter than the others. Calipers fail when they stick due to corrosion, a torn seal, or a seized piston or slide pin, which keeps the pad pressed against the rotor. A stuck caliper wears pads unevenly, overheats the brakes, and can warp the rotor. Because it affects safe stopping, it should be addressed promptly. At Motoro Cars, our free brake inspection checks caliper operation, sliders, and seals. Our ASE-certified techs in Wynwood and Doral can help. Call Wynwood at (786) 634-2002 or Doral at (786) 633-3220 today.