Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Replacement Costs: - Parts: The cost of a new brake caliper can range from $50 to $200 per caliper for most standard vehicles. High-performance or luxury vehicles may have calipers that cost significantly more, sometimes upwards of $500 each. - Labor: Labor costs for replacing a brake caliper typically range from $100 to $200 per hour. The job usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, so you might expect to pay between $100 and $400 for labor.
2. Repair Costs: - If the caliper can be repaired rather than replaced, the cost will generally be lower. Repairing a caliper might involve rebuilding it, which can cost between $50 and $100 for the parts, plus labor. - Labor for a repair might be slightly less than for a full replacement, but it can still range from $100 to $200 depending on the complexity and the shop rates.
3. Additional Costs: - Brake Pads and Rotors: Often, when replacing calipers, mechanics will also recommend replacing brake pads and possibly rotors, which can add to the cost. - Brake Fluid: You may also need to bleed the brake system and replace the brake fluid, which can add another $50 to $100 to the total cost.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Brake Caliper: The main component being replaced or repaired. This is the part that houses the brake pads and pistons, which apply pressure to the brake rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle.
2. Brake Pads: Often, when a caliper is replaced, the brake pads are also inspected and may be replaced if they show signs of wear. This ensures optimal braking performance and prevents uneven wear.
3. Brake Rotor Inspection: The brake rotor should be inspected for wear or damage. If the rotor is warped or excessively worn, it may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
4. Brake Fluid: The brake fluid may need to be topped off or completely flushed and replaced, especially if there is any contamination or if the system has been opened for a significant repair.
5. Brake Lines and Hoses: These should be inspected for any signs of wear, leaks, or damage. If any issues are found, the lines or hoses may need to be replaced.
6. Caliper Mounting Hardware: This includes bolts, pins, and clips that secure the caliper in place. These components may be replaced if they are corroded or damaged.
7. Caliper Bracket: If the caliper bracket is damaged or excessively worn, it may also need to be replaced.
8. Lubrication: The caliper pins and other moving parts should be properly lubricated to ensure smooth operation and prevent sticking.
9. Bleeding the Brake System: After replacing or repairing a caliper, the brake system will need to be bled to remove any air that may have entered the system, ensuring proper brake pedal feel and performance.
10. Testing: Once the repair or replacement is complete, the brake system should be tested to ensure everything is functioning correctly and safely.These steps and components are essential to ensure the brake system operates effectively and safely after a caliper replacement or repair.
What is a Brake Caliper and What Does It Do?
A brake caliper's primary function is to house the brake pads and pistons. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid from the master cylinder creates pressure on the pistons inside the caliper.
This pressure forces the brake pads against the brake rotor, which is attached to the wheel. The friction between the brake pads and the rotor slows down or stops the wheel's rotation, thereby slowing down or stopping the vehicle.
Brake calipers come in two main types: floating (or sliding) calipers and fixed calipers.
1. Floating Calipers: These have pistons only on one side of the rotor. The caliper moves in and out as the brakes are applied, allowing the pads to make contact with the rotor from both sides.
2. Fixed Calipers: These have pistons on both sides of the rotor and do not move. Instead, the pistons on both sides press the pads against the rotor. Brake calipers are typically made from materials like cast iron or aluminum, chosen for their strength and heat resistance. Proper maintenance of brake calipers is essential for safe vehicle operation, as they play a role in the braking system's effectiveness.
Signs of a bad Brake Caliper Pump
The brake caliper is a crucial component of a vehicle's braking system, and its failure can lead to reduced braking performance or even brake failure. Here are some common signs that a brake caliper might be failing:
1. Pulling to One Side: If the vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it could indicate that a caliper is sticking or not applying pressure evenly. This can cause uneven braking and affect the vehicle's handling.
2. High-Pitched Squealing or Grinding Noise: Unusual noises when braking, such as squealing or grinding, can indicate that the brake pads are worn down, but they can also suggest that the caliper is not functioning properly, causing uneven wear or metal-on-metal contact.
3. Brake Fluid Leaks: A visible brake fluid leak around the wheel area can be a sign of a damaged or leaking caliper. Brake fluid is essential for the hydraulic pressure needed to operate the brakes, and a leak can lead to brake failure.
4. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: If the brake pedal feels spongy or soft when pressed, it could be due to air in the brake lines or a leak in the brake system, potentially from a faulty caliper.
5. Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If one brake pad is significantly more worn than the other on the same axle, it could indicate that the caliper is not applying pressure evenly, possibly due to a sticking piston or slide pins.
6. Reduced Braking Performance: A noticeable decrease in braking performance, such as longer stopping distances or a lack of responsiveness, can be a sign of caliper issues.
7. Dragging Sensation: If the vehicle feels like it is dragging or if there is resistance when accelerating, it could be due to a caliper that is not releasing properly, causing the brake pads to remain in contact with the rotor.
8. Vibration or Pulsation: A vibrating or pulsating sensation in the brake pedal when braking can indicate a warped rotor, which can be caused by a caliper that is not functioning correctly.
9. Warning Light: Some vehicles have a brake system warning light that may illuminate if there is a problem with the braking system, including the calipers.If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and address the issue. Ignoring brake caliper problems can lead to more severe damage and compromise vehicle safety.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
