Brake caliper problems on German autos usually show up as steering pulling, brake drag, uneven brake pad wear, excessive brake heat, brake noise, or a brake fluid leak.
Common Brake Caliper Problem Signs
- The vehicle pulls to one side when braking or sometimes even while driving
- One brake assembly and wheel runs hotter than the others, or you smell a burning odor after driving
- Uneven brake pad wear on the same wheel often points to a sticking piston or caliper slide pins
- Grinding, squealing, clunking, or scraping noises from one corner of the car
- Soft or spongy brake pedal or reduced stopping power
- Visible brake fluid leak near the wheel or caliper
What a Bad Caliper Feels Like
A sticking caliper can make the car feel like it is dragging or resisting motion, especially after braking. A dangerous symptom is a steering pull to the affected side when a brake caliper is sticking. In severe cases, the brake rotor can overheat enough to cause smoke or a very strong burning smell.
When to Stop Driving
If you notice steering pulling to one side, overheating brakes, a burning smell, or a brake fluid leak, the car should be inspected right away, as caliper problems can worsen quickly and compromise stopping ability and safety.
The technicians at Stadium Auto Service are experts at brake service and repair of Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Porsche, and Volkswagen.