If you’ve noticed your car pulling to one side while driving or a burning smell coming from your wheels, you may have a stuck brake calliper. A sticking calliper can cause uneven braking, reduced fuel efficiency, and premature wear on your brake pads and rotors. But what exactly causes this pesky problem? Let’s take a closer look.
Symptoms of a stuck brake caliper
Some telltale signs that you’re dealing with a stuck calliper include:
- Car pulling to one side, especially when braking
- Squealing, grinding, or dragging noise from the brakes
- Burning smell from the wheels
- The brake pedal feels spongy or unresponsive
- Reduced gas mileage
If you notice any of these symptoms, getting your brakes checked out ASAP is important. Driving with a stuck calliper is not only annoying, but it can be dangerous too.
Common causes of caliper sticking
So what makes a brake caliper get stuck in the first place? Here are some of the most frequent culprits:
- Corrosion: Over time, rust and corrosion can build up inside the calliper, causing the piston to seize up. This is especially common in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
- Debris: Dirt, dust, and grime can work their way into the calliper and prevent it from sliding smoothly. This gunk can come from the road or even from worn-out brake pads.
- Damaged slide pins: The calliper relies on slide pins to move in and out. If these pins get bent, broken, or stuck, the calliper won’t be able to release properly.
- Leaking brake fluid: A leak in the brake line or calliper can allow air bubbles to enter the system, reducing hydraulic pressure and causing the calliper to stick.
Repairing a stuck brake caliper
If you suspect a stuck calliper, the first step is to have a mechanic inspect your brakes. They’ll likely perform a visual check, test drive the car, and measure the thickness of your brake pads. Depending on the cause and severity of the problem, the repair may involve:
- Cleaning and lubricating the caliper slide pins
- Replacing the calliper, pads and rotors
- Bleeding and flushing the brake fluid
- Fixing any leaks in the brake lines
For most stuck calliper repairs, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1000 in New Zealand, including parts and labour. However, the exact cost will depend on your specific vehicle and the extent of the damage.
Why choose My Auto Shop
You want a mechanic you can trust when it comes to brake repairs. That’s where My Auto Shop comes in. We’re New Zealand’s largest mobile mechanic service, with a team of experienced, qualified technicians. Here’s why we’re the best choice for your stuck-calliper woes:
- We come to you, so you don’t have to waste time at the shop
- Our prices are upfront and transparent, with no hidden fees
- We use high-quality parts and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools
- Our mechanics are friendly, professional, and vaccinated for your safety
- We have a stellar reputation, with a 4.9-star rating on Google
So if you’re dealing with a stuck brake caliper, don’t wait – book an appointment with My Auto Shop today. We’ll get you back on the road safely and smoothly without breaking the bank.