Why would a new brake caliper lock up?
Even though you may not have pressed on the brakes, residual hydraulic pressure can cause the brake calipers to activate and lock. This is the most common form of lock-up on the road today. Don’t ignore this problem as it can quickly lead to mechanical failure of other parts of your braking system.
What can cause a caliper to stick?
Causes of a Sticking brake caliper
- Rusty Caliper Pistons & Piston Boot.
- Rusty & Stuck Brake pads.
- Dirty Caliper Guide Pin.
- Parking Brake Steel Cables.
- Broken brake hose.
- Dirty or Old Brake Fluid.
What are the symptoms of a seized brake caliper?
If the piston is stuck within the caliper, or the pad is stuck, the car can feel down on power (as if the parking brake is on). You may also notice the car pulling to one side with the steering wheel pointed straight, when cruising and not applying the brake. As you drive, the seized brake may also get hot – very hot.
How do you remove a seized brake caliper piston?
Often a simple C-clamp can be used. To remove a caliper piston that has become seized, the hydraulic pressure of the brake system itself can be used. Remove the caliper from the disc, and pump the brake pedal to move the piston past the corroded portion.
Is it better to replace or rebuild a bad caliper?
Replacing the bad caliper is always an option, but often it can be rebuilt for less money. A rebuild is something a competent DIYer can do at home, and involves disassembly and cleaning, then replacing rubber parts and sometimes the piston itself. As long as the internal corrosion isn’t too bad, a rebuild is worth considering.
What happens when the caliper slide pins on a car seize?
If it is the caliper slide pins that have seized, the car may appear to drive normally, but the pads will only be pushed onto the disc from the piston side. This will give reduced braking ability on one wheel, and wear the pad on the piston side much faster. In cases like these, the car may pull to the opposite side when the brakes are applied.