When it comes to automotive maintenance, brake calipers are one of the most important components of any vehicle. It is essential to keep them in good working order, as they are responsible for keeping the brakes in proper working order. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for brake calipers to become stuck, or “seized,” due to rust, dirt, or debris. If this happens, it can cause a decrease in braking power, as well as a potential safety hazard. Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to unstick a brake caliper and get your vehicle back on the road.
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Before you can begin the process of un-sticking a brake caliper, you must first identify the issue. In most cases, you will be able to tell if your brake caliper is seized by simply looking at it. If the caliper is stuck in place, it is likely that the piston is stuck in the bore. If you are still unsure, you can try manually pushing and pulling on the caliper to see if it moves. If it does not move, you can be sure that it is stuck.
Step 2: Remove the Caliper
Once you have identified the issue, the next step is to remove the caliper from the car. This is done by first removing the brake pads from the caliper, then removing the bolts that hold the caliper in place. Depending on the type of caliper, there may be a few different bolts that need to be removed. Once the bolts are off, the caliper should be able to be removed from the car.
Step 3: Clean the Caliper and Pads
Once the caliper is removed, you should clean it and the brake pads with a degreaser or brake cleaner. This will help to remove any dirt, debris, or rust that may be causing the caliper to be stuck. Make sure to be thorough, as any remaining debris may cause the caliper to become stuck again after it is reinstalled.
Step 4: Reinstall the Caliper
The next step is to reinstall the caliper. This is done by first replacing the bolts that were removed in step two. Make sure to torque the bolts to the correct specifications as outlined in the car’s owners manual. Once the bolts are in place, you can then reinstall the brake pads. Make sure that they are properly seated and that they are not rubbing against the caliper.
Step 5: Test the Caliper
Once the caliper is reinstalled, you should test it to make sure that it is working properly. To do this, you will need to pump the brake pedal a few times to get the fluid moving through the lines. Once the fluid is flowing, you should check the caliper to make sure that it is moving freely. If it is not, then you may need to repeat the steps outlined above.
Step 6: Check For Leaks
Finally, you should check the brake system for any leaks. If there are any leaks, they should be addressed immediately. Leaks can cause the brakes to become less effective, as well as cause damage to the brake system. If you find any leaks, you should take your car to a qualified mechanic to have them fixed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, un-sticking a brake caliper is not a difficult process. As long as you take the proper steps, it should not take too much time or money to get your caliper back in working order. Just remember to be careful and take all necessary safety precautions when working on your car. With a little bit of patience and knowledge, you can get your brake caliper back in working order and get your car back on the road.
