Brake Calipers
Is a brake caliper leaking, is a piston stuck, or does the brake need upgrading for your project? This category contains brake calipers as direct replacements for original parts as well as fixed multi-piston calipers – for both cars and motorcycles.
Fixed and floating brake calipers
The brake caliper presses the pads against the disc, and its design affects how the brake feels. A floating caliper typically has pistons on one side and slides on guide pins, while fixed brake calipers have pistons on both sides of the disc. More pistons and a stiff construction can give more even pad loading and a firmer pedal, but the effect depends on the entire system. The range spans from OE replacement calipers from PowerStop and zinc-plated calipers from DFC to Brembo's 8-piston G caliper and motorcycle calipers such as GP4-RX and Stylema.
How to choose a brake caliper
- Fitment: Check model, year and side, e.g. front right, as calipers are often sold per side.
- Disc and pads: The caliper must match the diameter and thickness of your brake discs and the shape of your brake pads.
- Use: If you simply need to restore the original function, an OE replacement may be enough. For track days, piston count, stiffness and heat tolerance can matter more.
- Clearance: Larger calipers require clearance behind the wheel. For a complete upgrade, big brake kits may be the more obvious choice.
Installation and maintenance
After installation, the system must be bled, and hoses and tightening torques checked. A sticking caliper can cause uneven pad wear and extra heat. Overheating can cause braking performance to drop, while a soft or long pedal can be caused by air or boiling brake fluid. See also the other parts under disc brakes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a fixed and a floating brake caliper?
A fixed caliper is rigidly mounted to the bracket and has pistons on both sides of the disc. A floating caliper typically has pistons on one side and slides on guide pins. Which type suits you depends on the car and its use.
Should brake calipers be replaced in pairs?
Both sides on the same axle should brake equally. If you only replace one side, braking can become uneven, depending on wear and type. Pads should always be replaced on both sides at the same time.
Can a conversion to larger brake calipers be approved for inspection?
It depends on the product and the car. Modifications to the brake system may require an inspection, and approval, e.g. E-mark or documentation from the manufacturer, must be checked for the specific part number.
