Car Culture HQ
Automotive Wiki

Brakes

Brake Caliper

A hydraulically actuated clamp housing pistons that squeeze pads against a rotor.

Definition

Multi-piston calipers improve pad wear and stopping power distribution.

Caliper piston size affects pedal feel and pad contact.

Related terms

  • Brake RotorA disc rotating with the wheel that pads clamp to create friction and slow the v
  • Brake PadFriction material pressed against the rotor to convert kinetic energy into heat.
  • Master CylinderThe hydraulic pump converting brake pedal force into fluid pressure for calipers
  • ABSAnti-lock braking system pulsing pressure to prevent wheel lockup under hard bra
  • Brake BiasThe front-to-rear distribution of braking force during pedal application.
  • Big Brake KitAn upgrade package with larger rotors and multi-piston calipers for increased st

Category: Brakes · Updated August 31, 2026