Brake calipers are an essential part of making your car stop when you hit the brakes. It consists of many pads and pistons. They have the crucial job of slowing the speed of your car and starting the brake process. 

The brake caliper fits like a clamp over the disc brake rotor. Inside the caliper, there are metal plates called brake pads. They are of two types; outboard and inboard. 

When you stride on the brake, fluid from the cylinder creates pressure on the pistons and pads forced against the rotors. The brake pads have high friction capacity, and due to this action, the rotor slows down, followed by the wheel, which leads the car to stop gradually.

Brake calipers have two types:

Floating calipers

They contain one or more pistons that are situated on the inboard side. They move the caliper when you press on the brake. 

Fixed calipers

They are immobile and have many pistons adapted on the opposite side of the rotor. These pistons move the caliper when you press the brake.

How do brake caliper function:

Friction

• Primarily, brake calipers use friction to stop the speed of your car wheels. 
• The brake pads in the calipers connect with the wheel, causing them to slow down when your foot presses the brake pedal.
• After you press the brake pedal, the fluid is released. This puts pressure on the pistons that help the brake pad to make a connection with the rotor.
•  This connection helps in the deceleration of the car.

Initiating stopping process

• The entire system of stopping your car is very complex and detailed. 
• The brake fluids play a significant role here.
• The fluids move through the brake lines and create oppression on the caliper forcing the brake pedal to slow the speed.

Brake parts do not last indefinitely. Every time it comes in contact with the rotors, they become thinner and thinner. However, it can be removed and replaced easily. 

If you notice the following things, it is time you get your calipers checked by a mechanic or repaired:

• Screeching noises while you press on the brake.
• You have to put more pressure on the brake pedal.
• Your brake pedal feels soft and more delicate than usual.
• Brake fluid is being leaked from the wheels or the engine part.

You can handle the minor repairs of your car; however, if you experience the need for severe improvements, it is best you let your car mechanic handle it.

Brake calipers play a crucial role in stopping your car. It is responsible for your driving safety and overall driving performance. Therefore it is essential you take proper care of your brake calipers from time to time.