BRAKE TEMPS

The friction created when the brakes are applied can equate to extreme temperatures.  These high temps affect the rotors, pads, calipers, seals, dust boots, brake fluid, wheels, bearings and more!!

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Calipers play an integral role in braking as they are responsible for pressing the brake pads against the surface of the rotors when the brake pedal is pressed down by the driver. Because the brake pads are mounted on the calipers, the heat that the pads absorb during braking can spread to the caliper body. The intensity of this heat can vary with the type of driving that is involved (ex. racing, track days, simple day to day driving or towing a heavy load).  Since calipers are not directly subjected to friction, it stands to reason that they do not get as hot as the rotors and pads. But there are instances where calipers are subjected to extreme heat that mainly occurs in the racing industry.

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Under extreme braking conditions, such as on a racetrack, calipers can reach temperatures exceeding 500° F (250° C). At this heat, calipers can undergo major stress, and damage to internal seals is possible, if not likely. But, the calipers themselves can easily withstand the heat resulting from normal braking.  In a racing environment, some components can see 1000°F  or higher.  The rotors & pads take most of the heat but surrounding components are subjected to radiant heat.  This radiant heat "soaks" the nearby components and also the brake fluid (Please be sure to read our section on brake fluids).  Heat damages components and it is important to have your brake system properly inspected & serviced on a regular basis for both longevity & safety.