CALIPER

A brake caliper is the housing that holds the brake pads and clamps them onto the disc.

Hydraulic or air pressure pushes pistons in the caliper to squeeze the pads against the disc; it must release cleanly so the brake does not drag.

Calipers are part of the disc brake at each wheel. Because braking is safety critical, a sticking or leaking caliper should be serviced by a qualified technician.