What happens when a brake caliper sticks?

Answer 1

Usually one of two things happens. 1. the caliper sticks in the cylinder and does not apply braking pressure to the rotor, so you don't stop as fast, or at all. This is fairly rare, since power brakes apply enough pressure to force it out, or 2. most commonly, the caliper does not retract after braking and drags on the rotor, which wears both the rotor and the pad, also reduces your gas mileage because it is always braking the car. In worse cases it overheats the rotor causing warping, and a very strong smell. In this case you can feel the heat on the wheel studs after driving. Sometimes the vehicle will pull severely to one side or the other, if only one caliper is sticking. This is a fairly easy fix, if it hasn't gone on to long, and the rotor isn't damaged. Kits are available from most auto parts stores. NEVER do just one wheel, do both fronts, both rears, or all four. Use a repair manual and don't skip steps, or take it to a mechanic.