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Brake Caliper Replacement
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours depending on part availability
Please note, if you experience any untoward characteristics in your braking, book a diagnostic inspection immediately and do not drive the vehicle
What does a brake caliper do?
A brake caliper is the main component that pushes the brake pads into contact with the brake discs when pressure is applied to the brake pedal.
How does a brake caliper work and what are the components?
Brake calipers are either a solid cast single unit or in some cases two units that are tightly held together. Inside the casting is a piston, which is hydraulically forced out when the foot brakes are applied. The pistons have a rubber seal preventing the fluid from escaping around the piston and the exposed piston surfaces are protected from the elements by a protective rubber boot.
Modern cars usually have a disc brake on each wheel, however some older, smaller or lower specification may only have brake discs on the front wheels with rear wheels slowed by drum brakes.
Typical symptoms that require a brake caliper to be replaced.
Some of the symptoms of a failing brake caliper are:
- When the car pulls to the right or left under braking.
- From an MOT failure or advisory note regarding brake imbalance.
- If your brake pedal begins to gradually get softer (less resistance)
- If the fluid level in your brake fluid reservoir drops.
- You notice brake fluid on the rims of your wheels.
- If a mechanic advises you of damage to the predictive boot during a brake pad change.
What happens during a brake caliper replacement?
Changing brake pads is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the brakes and establish if there is a problem with one or several of the brake calipers.
- If necessary, the mechanic will replace the brake caliper.
- Advise if other parts of the braking system need replacing too (such as brake pads if they have worn down on one side unevenly and that is so often the case that we usually add the cost of them in).
- Bleed the brake system.
- Top up the brake fluid.
- Test drive the car and inspect the brake system again.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your brake caliper to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the brake caliper and fluid
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Brake caliper replacement
Associated repairs
Brake pads replacement
Brake discs and pads replacement
Brake hose replacement
Brake fluid change
Wheel cylinder replacement
How much does it cost to have a brake caliper replaced?
The cost of a brake caliper replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the brake caliper doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.