Need Brake Repair? Bad Calipers Could Be The Culprit!

If you are starting to experience braking problems, don’t delay in scheduling a brake service for an inspection of the braking system. If you have to step down hard on the brake pedal to come to a stop, or if you are hearing squealing noises when you step on the pedal, there are several issues that could be causing the problem. It could be bad calipers, a failing master cylinder, brake hose, or even just worn out pads or drums.

Failing calipers could be the culprit of your braking problems, which is a fairly common cause. There are a few signs of failing calipers to watch for:

• The calipers don’t always release, causing the brake pads to wear prematurely.
• The piston freezes and the brakes won't apply (the wear on the pads is minimal as the brakes aren’t actually working).
• The caliper slide pins stick--they may simply need lubricant.
• The caliper piston doesn’t compress.

How does a brake repair technician test for bad calipers? They simply check the pad wear on each of the wheels. If the friction material is worn down to the metal on one side of the vehicle, but the other side still has about 90% remaining, the problem is probably a bad caliper.

Note: Don’t neglect frequent brake service so that you are driving--or stopping--as safe as possible.  

Need to find professional brake repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today by calling 507-263-2120 or Contact Us for more information about brake service. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN and the surrounding areas.

About the Author

Jan Udenberg

Jan, is loving wife of our devoted owner Rich Udenberg who passed away unexpectedly in January of 2023. Jan spent 30 plus years as a Laboratory Technician at the Mayo Clinic and recently retired in December of 2022. After Rich passed she joined the team here at Cannon Auto and has enjoyed learning about the automotive industry, meeting our amazing and loyal customers along with seeing what her husband did for so many years here at the shop. She brings her dog Bear with everyday to work and customers seem love our new four legged greeter. Outside of work Jan loves to spend time with her grandkids, spending time at the family cabin; fishing, four-wheeling, snowmobiling and most of all being outside.

Learn more about Jan and the shop →