Parts for your 2014 Ford Falcon-Brake calipers

Brake Calipers on the 2014 Ford Falcon: What You Need to Know

The 2014 Ford Falcon, a well-known Australian favourite, definitely comes equipped with brake calipers as part of its braking system. Brake calipers are a crucial component in disc brakes, which this model uses on at least the front wheels, if not all four, depending on the variant. So, they're not only relevant but essential for the safe operation of the Falcon's brakes.

So, what exactly is the purpose of these brake calipers? Simply put, brake calipers play the key role in slowing down and stopping your vehicle. When a driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid forces the calipers to clamp down on the brake pads. These pads then squeeze against the rotating brake disc, or rotor, creating the friction required to slow the wheels and bring the car to a halt. Without properly functioning brake calipers, the braking system wouldn't be able to generate this essential friction.

For the 2014 Ford Falcon, maintaining your brake calipers is an important part of servicing the vehicle to ensure safety and performance. Over time, brake calipers can wear or develop issues that might affect braking efficiency. Dust, dirt, road salt and even moisture can cause the calipers to stick or seize, which leads to uneven braking or premature wear of brake pads and discs.

Regular maintenance checks on a Ford Falcon should generally include a visual inspection of the brake calipers. Look out for signs such as leaks from the brake fluid seals, corrosion or damage to the caliper body, and if possible, check whether the caliper pistons move freely. If calipers stick, it can cause your car to pull to one side while braking, or you might notice reduced brake responsiveness, which shouldn't be ignored.

Replacing brake calipers usually comes into the picture when they have sustained irreparable damage or wear. For example, corrosion inside the caliper bore, leaking seals or broken pistons are common reasons for caliper replacement. Replacement calipers need to be a close match to the originals, as using incorrect parts can compromise braking safety.

When servicing brake calipers on a 2014 Ford Falcon, technicians typically:

• Inspect the brake calipers for leaks, damage or corrosion
• Clean the caliper slides and lubricate them with high-temperature grease
• Check the condition of brake pads and rotors closely
• Ensure caliper pistons retract and extend correctly to allow smooth brake operation
• Bleed the brakes to replace old brake fluid and remove any air pockets in the system

If a caliper needs to be replaced, it's important to buy quality OEM or equivalent parts. Installing inferior calipers can lead to poor braking, uneven pad wear or noise. It's also a good idea to replace brake pads simultaneously during caliper replacement, because worn pads can cause extra stress on the new calipers.

Ford Falcons, especially the 2014 model, have a fairly straightforward brake caliper design which makes servicing relatively hassle-free if done regularly. Keeping your calipers in check contributes to safer stops and prolongs the life of your braking system overall. Plus, well-maintained calipers help the vehicle retain good resale value, because brakes are a major selling point when it comes to used cars.

Ignoring caliper maintenance can result in issues like overheating, which reduces braking power, or the dreaded brake fade during long drives. It's always wise for Falcon owners to have their brake system inspected at least once a year or more frequently if they do lots of city driving, towing or spirited weekend runs.

So, if you drive a 2014 Ford Falcon, don't overlook the humble brake calipers. They may not always grab the spotlight, but they're front and centre when it comes to keeping you and your family safe on the roads. A little bit of regular love and attention during servicing makes all the difference in how smoothly and reliably your Falcon stops when it needs to.