How to Free a Stuck Brake Caliper Piston in These Easy Steps
As a driver, you know how important it is for your car’s brakes to function properly. However, at times, the brake caliper piston can get stuck causing brakes to malfunction.
This can be a major issue that requires immediate attention. The brake caliper piston is the most critical component of the brake system that presses brake pads against the rotor to bring your car to a stop.
If you are facing this issue, you may be wondering how to resolve it without visiting a mechanic. In this article, we will guide you through easy steps to free a stuck brake caliper piston, allowing you to save time and money.
The Root of This Issue
In one word, the primary cause of this issue is ‘corrosion.’ If your piston is stuck to your brake caliper, then there is a high chance that you had your car sitting around idle for months resulting in the formation of rust in the brakes. The rust causes the piston to stick to the calipers and cause the brake to fail.
How to Free a Stuck Brake Caliper Piston?
In the case of stuck caliper pistons, a special tool is required to unstick it from the caliper. However, at times, an ordinary C-clamp stand will get the job done, and even a can of compressed air might be ample at times.
What’s funny is that the brake system can use it’s own hydraulic pressure to remove the piston. All you have to do is take out the piston from the disc and press the brake pedal, so it is not in the rusty region anymore. After that has been taken care of, you can continue with the rest of your job.
Why Do You need to Rebuild the Brake Caliper?
After you have freed the stuck piston, there are high chances that your brake will seize again. The corroded area is still present, so the piston will be stuck again with time. The easiest solution would be to replace the lousy caliper with a brand new one; however, that would be a bit expensive. So an alternate way would be to rebuild the same old one, which will take a smaller hit to your wallet.
A rebuild will require way more labor, which DIY enthusiasts might find to be enjoyable. The process includes replacing a lot of the components and at times, the piston itself, heavy cleaning, and also dissembling.
Rebuilding is an excellent option if the corrosion inside is not all that atrocious. The rusting can sometimes be so terrible that there is no choice but to replace your old caliper with a new one. You may need to purchase only one particular tool, which is a brake hone to clean out the inside of the bore.
It might occur to you that buying a used caliper might be a viable choice, but we would beg to differ. A junkyard caliper might be even more corroded than the one you have, and it may be a complete waste of your cash, so refrain from making such decisions.
Ultimately, it comes down to the weight of your wallet. If you have the spare money to get a shiny new caliper, you should opt for that without any hesitation. But that’s not the case for the majority of us, so rebuilding can be a right choice that will give you similar results.
How to Prevent This from Happening in the Future?
Although you use your braking system almost daily, it gets the least attention. The key to avoiding all this trouble is checking on your braking system regularly and see whether any parts have been worn out or there is any sign of corrosion.
The most important thing is to keep the system well lubricated to make sure everything runs smoothly. Use a high-temperature grease in the system, which will provide lubrication and protection on the outside for the piston and sliding pins.
This stops rust formation and ensures a fully functional braking system that will not let you down.
Don’t leave your car lying around for months; start it up once in a while and give it a spin to be on the safer side. Another piece of advice you might want to keep in your head is that you should flush out the brake fluids every other year, because it draws in moisture, influencing corrosion.
How to Unstick Frozen Brake Caliper Pistons
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my brake caliper piston is stuck?
If you notice that your brakes feel spongy, your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, or you hear a grinding noise when applying the brakes, it could be a sign of a stuck brake caliper piston. It’s best to have it checked by a professional to confirm the issue.
Can I fix a stuck brake caliper piston myself?
Yes, you can fix a stuck brake caliper piston yourself if you have the proper tools and knowledge. However, keep in mind that working on brakes can be complex and potentially dangerous. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.
What tools do I need to free a stuck brake caliper piston?
To free a stuck brake caliper piston, you’ll need a few basic tools such as a wrench, pliers, a C-clamp, brake cleaner, and lubricant. Additionally, a brake piston tool can be helpful for certain caliper designs.
How do I free a stuck brake caliper piston?
To free a stuck brake caliper piston, remove the caliper from the rotor. Then, use a C-clamp to compress the piston back into the caliper bore slowly. This should help break any corrosion or rust that may be causing the sticking. Clean the caliper and piston with brake cleaner, lubricate the piston with brake lubricant, and reinstall the caliper.
Can a stuck brake caliper piston be fixed without replacing it?
In some cases, a stuck brake caliper piston can be freed without replacing it. However, if the piston is severely damaged or corroded, it may need to be replaced. It’s best to consult a professional mechanic to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action.
How often should I check my brake caliper pistons?
It’s a good idea to visually inspect your brake caliper pistons whenever you change your brake pads or rotors. Look for any signs of corrosion, rust, or sticking. Additionally, if you notice any changes in your vehicle’s braking performance, have your brakes inspected by a professional.
Conclusion
In this article, we have provided you with sufficient tips and tricks on HOW TO FREE A STUCK BRAKE CALIPER PISTON. Pay attention to your brake system now and then, follow the tips given and you should be free of any problems. If you are still confused, feel free to drop down your questions in the comments section below.
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