Brake calipers are the mechanism that pushes the brake linings on the brake discs to slow a vehicle, when the brake pedal is pressed. They are prone to failures like any other part of your car's brake system, and it can happen that they need to be replaced. This article explains how.
Steps
Step 1. Start getting the necessary equipment
With the car on the ground, loosen the wheel bolts with the wheel bolt wrench, without removing them.
Step 2. Jack the car up
Make sure the jack is positioned correctly under the car. You can also hold it up with easels. Consult the user manual to find the lifting points.
Step 3. Remove the bolts and disassemble the wheels
Turn the wheels so you can easily access the brake calipers.
Step 4. Compress the caliper piston with a clamp
Step 5. Have a container handy to catch oil leaks
Remove the bolts holding the brake hose. This will give you the space to operate with a forceps.
Some cars may have pins instead of bolts. Use a Phillips or slotted screwdriver to open them. Discard the old brass or copper washers and replace them. Never reuse the old ones
Step 6. Plug the brake hose with a small piece of rubber or a banjo joint with two washers, a bolt and a nut, to minimize oil leaks and dirt from entering the brake system
Never pinch the hose: you risk damaging it, compromising the functioning of the brakes with all the consequent risks.
Step 7. Loosen and remove the pliers joints with the appropriate wrench
These particular joints are called "Banjo".
Step 8. Remove the caliper retaining bolts with the appropriate wrench and set them aside, you will need to reassemble them later
On some cars the calipers have two fixing bolts, on others only one.
Step 9. Lift the calipers up to reveal the disc and then slide them out
Carefully remove the linings from the calipers. Try not to drop them or they will break.
Step 10. Check the caliper mounting brackets for signs of rust or corrosion that could cause the new calipers to malfunction
If there is rust, remove it before replacing the part.
Step 11. If the manufacturer recommends it, you can lubricate THE BACK of the brake linings, mounting bushings and sleeves with the prescribed grease
Fit the brake linings to the new calipers if they are not already included. Never apply grease to the inner side of the lining which will come into contact with the disc.
Step 12. Carefully refit the caliper with the linings onto the brake disc
Fit the new mounting bolts, if included with the calipers, otherwise fit the old ones. Tighten them according to the instructions. You may need a ratchet wrench to do this. Don't over tighten.
Step 13. Reconnect the brake hose to the banjo joint, inserting new washers
Tighten as instructed.
Step 14. Remove the cap that was previously attached to the tube and replace the bolts holding it in place
Step 15. Bleed the brakes and top up the fluid
Use the liquid recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual.
Step 16. Refit the wheels
Invite the bolts in their seats and lower the car to the ground. Tighten them following the manual, and only after lowering the car. The use of the pneumatic gun is not recommended for inexperienced people.
Step 17. Test the brakes before you hit the road
If you feel they are not working properly, contact a professional mechanic right away.
Warnings
- Do not clean brake parts with compressed air or a grinder. Brakes may contain asbestos, the dust of which can cause respiratory disease if inhaled.
- If necessary, use jack stands to support the car. If the jack gives way, you risk getting very injured.
