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How Often Should You Replace Brake Calipers? Advice From Lonsdale Auto Works

As a vehicle owner, keeping your brakes in top shape is crucial for safety and your car’s longevity. At Lonsdale Auto Works in Lonsdale, MN, we understand that brake calipers, though often overlooked, play a key role in this. But how often should you replace them? In this post, we’ll explore the essentials of brake calipers, the signs that signal it’s time for a replacement, and why regular brake maintenance is vital for your vehicle’s performance.

What Are Brake Calipers and How Do They Work?

How often should you change the brake calipers on a vehicle in Lonesdale, MN with Lonesdale Auto Works. Closeup image of a new set of brake pads and calipers installed on a vehicle in the shop.

Brake calipers are a vital part of your vehicle’s braking system. They house the brake pads and are responsible for clamping down on the brake rotors when you press the brake pedal. This action slows down your vehicle by creating friction between the brake pads and the rotors. Without properly functioning brake calipers, your vehicle’s ability to stop effectively would be compromised.

Types of Brake Calipers

  • Floating Calipers: Feature one or two pistons inside the rotor, moving in and out with applied pressure.
  • Fixed Calipers: Have pistons on both sides of the rotor, remaining stationary. Common in high-performance vehicles for superior braking performance.

Typical Lifespan of Brake Calipers

Brake calipers are designed to be durable and long-lasting. On average, they can last anywhere from 75,000 to 100,000 miles, or about 7-10 years, depending on driving habits and environmental conditions. However, like all car components, brake calipers are subject to wear and tear, and their lifespan can vary.

Warning Signs of Worn-Out Brake Calipers

Even if your brake calipers haven’t reached the end of their typical lifespan, certain signs may indicate it’s time for a replacement:

  1. Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If one brake pad wears down faster than the others, it may indicate that the caliper is not applying pressure evenly.
  2. Leaking Brake Fluid: Brake fluid leaks around the wheel area can be a sign of a damaged or corroded caliper.
  3. Pulling to One Side: If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it could be a sign that one of the calipers is sticking or not working correctly.
  4. High-Pitched Squealing or Metallic Grinding Noise: Unusual noises when braking could indicate that the calipers are not releasing the brake pads fully.
  5. Brake Pedal Feels Soft or Spongy: A soft or spongy brake pedal could indicate a problem with the brake caliper or air in the brake lines.

Why Timely Brake Caliper Replacement Matters?

Replacing your brake calipers when needed is crucial for several reasons:

  • Safety: Faulty brake calipers can lead to brake failure, which can be dangerous, especially in emergencies.
  • Vehicle Performance: Properly functioning brake calipers ensure your vehicle stops efficiently and predictably.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Delaying brake caliper replacement can lead to further damage to your braking system, potentially resulting in more costly repairs.

What to Expect for Brake Caliper Replacement Costs

The cost of brake caliper replacement can vary depending on your vehicle make and model, as well as whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 to $800 per caliper, including labor. While this might seem costly, investing in quality brake repair and maintenance services can save you from more significant expenses in the long run.

Lonsdale Auto Works: Your Trusted Brake Maintenance Experts

  • Top-Notch Brake Services: We specialize in brake caliper replacement, using advanced tools and Snap-On diagnostic equipment to ensure precision and care in every job.
  • Convenient and Comprehensive: Value your time with services like loaner cars, pick-up/drop-off, and a 36-month, 36,000-mile nationwide warranty. Our focus on customer satisfaction has earned us numerous awards.
  • Community Commitment: Proud members of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP) and Midwest Auto Care Alliance (MWACA). We stand for ethical, trustworthy, and reliable service, treating every customer with equality and fairness.

Get Your Brake Calipers Replaced in Lonsdale, MN

If you’re noticing any signs of brake caliper wear or if it’s been a while since your last brake inspection, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Lonsdale Auto Works today at 507-744-3304 or visit us at 616 Industrial Drive SE, Lonsdale, MN 55046, to schedule your brake services. Let our experienced technicians ensure your vehicle’s brake system is in top condition, keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road.

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KC Eyton

Technician

KC Eyton is our Light Duty Auto Technician where she serves in support for our other technicians and provides inspection, maintence and tire services and assists the front counter. KC has been with us since 2021.

WHAT KC LOVES ABOUT WORKING AT LAW:
Being an automotive technician at LAW has allowed me to learn & do what I’m passionate about. I enjoy the fast-paced environment filled with challenges & feeling a sense of accomplishment when I’ve used my knowledge & experience to solve an issue. I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful people who care about my personal well-being & professional growth. I love how my boss Scott constantly believes in me. He pushes me to take on projects that I think are way beyond my abilities. I am so grateful for the mentorship & support. This truly creates a family environment where everyone is there for each other. I love my job!

Chris Waskosky

Technician

Chris Waskosky is a Master Auto Technician and has an extensive background in vehicle diagnostics, powertrain management systems and electronics. Chris joined our team in 2011. Chris has a lifetime of mechanical experience from vintage steam engines, to carburetors, to the latest in high-tech modern automobile systems.

WHAT CHRIS LOVES ABOUT WORKING AT LAW:
Along with having a fun work environment, I enjoy a variety of jobs I can do. One vehicle may be an oil change, but the next vehicle may be using a lab scope to find a communication problem between computers. Every day brings new vehicles and new challenges.

Denise Davis

Service Manager

Service Manger, Denise Davis joined our team in 2018. Her experience in customer service, retail sales as well as store & employee management is extensive.

Denise has a great ability to transform the complexity of modern automobiles into easy to understand explanations that help bring comfort & confidence to our clients. Whether dealing with a simple oil change or a complete engine replacement, she will take the time to explain the issues in a manner that is understandable and she provides our clients with the information required to help them make an informed decision about their vehicle repairs. She is always willing to help with whatever questions & concerns you may have.

Scott Palava

Owner

Lonsdale Auto Works was founded in 2005 by owner, Scott Pelava.

As an ASE-Certified Master Auto Technician, Advanced Engine Performance Specialist, Undercar Specialist, and Service Consultant, he saw the need for a more modern auto service center in the fast growing community of Lonsdale. A strong background in domestic and import vehicles helped formed the vision of what Lonsdale Auto Works is today.

Starting with one apprentice, he built a reputation for quality service and fair pricing. As the need arose, additional technicians joined his team to keep up with our customers’ need for fast, quality service.

Scott is also very active in the community. He is currently in his fourth term as a Lonsdale City Council Member. He has held numerous leadership positions with the local Boy Scout Troop and at the District and Council levels. He is the Past President of the Chamber of Commerce and a past member of the Lonsdale Lions Club.

Scott has been recognized multiple times for his contributions to the auto repair industry. In 2017 he founded ASOG (Auto Shop Owners Group) in an effort to provide support to other repair shop owners. The organization has grown to the largest in the world. As a result, Scott was named in the Top 100 People in World the Automotive & Transportation as well as listed in the Marquis Who’s Who of Business in America.