Brake calipers are a crucial component of a vehicle's disc braking system. Their primary function is to slow down or stop the car by creating friction with the brake rotors. The caliper houses the brake pads and pistons; when you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the pistons to push the brake pads against the spinning rotor, generating friction that slows the wheels

. Brake calipers act like clamps around the rotor and convert hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid into mechanical force. This force presses the brake pads onto the rotor surfaces, which decelerates the wheel's rotation and ultimately stops the vehicle

. There are different types of brake calipers, including:

• Floating calipers: Most common, with pistons on one side; the caliper slides to press pads on both sides of the rotor.
• Fixed calipers: Pistons on both sides of the rotor, do not slide, providing more even pressure.
• Sliding calipers: Use pins or sliders to move slightly, helping equalize pressure and pad wear

Brake calipers are essential for safe braking performance. Over time, they can wear out or develop issues such as leaks, corrosion, or sticking pistons, which can affect braking efficiency and safety

. In summary, brake calipers are the mechanical devices that clamp the brake pads onto the rotors to create the friction needed to slow or stop a vehicle safely