Is it OK to replace just one caliper?

In most cases, replacing only a single brake caliper on an axle is not recommended and can lead to braking imbalance. Mechanics typically replace calipers in pairs on the same axle to ensure even pad wear, consistent braking force, and reliable safety performance. If a caliper is leaking or seized, it should be repaired or replaced, and the broader condition of the braking system should be evaluated to decide whether the other caliper should be replaced as well.

Why pairing calipers is the standard practice

Brake systems are designed to deliver balanced performance across wheels. Replacing just one caliper can create an imbalance that shows up as pulling, uneven wear, or unpredictable braking feel, especially under heavy braking or in wet conditions. Technology such as ABS and stability control relies on consistent input from all wheels, so any significant disparity can affect control.

• Balanced braking: A single new caliper on one wheel can cause the car to pull to one side during braking, which is a safety concern.


• Pad and rotor wear consistency: Different calipers can wear pads differently, leading to vibration or noise and uneven braking force across the axle.


• Electronics and safety systems: ABS/ESC systems assume even braking; imbalance can complicate control algorithms and fault detection.


• Long-term reliability: Replacing both calipers on the same axle can reduce the risk of future caliper failure on the other side and simplify maintenance planning.


• Warranty and manufacturer guidance: Some manufacturers and shops explicitly recommend or require paired replacement on an axle; deviations should be documented and validated.

Bottom line: For most drivers and most vehicles, replacing calipers in pairs on the same axle is the safer, more predictable choice. If a caliper is faulty, it is important to inspect the rest of the braking components and follow manufacturer recommendations.

When a single caliper replacement might be considered

There are specific situations where a shop might replace only the malfunctioning caliper, such as when the opposite caliper is in excellent condition, or when the vehicle design uses highly independent hydraulic circuits per wheel. Even in these cases, technicians typically inspect pads and rotors on both wheels of the axle and consider replacing pads to ensure even bedding-in and braking performance.

Before proceeding with any single-caliper replacement, it is essential to assess the axle as a system and weigh potential safety risks against cost savings.

• Known good counterpart caliper: If the other side has been recently replaced or rebuilt and tests show equivalent performance, some technicians may opt for a single caliper replacement after thorough inspection.


• Independent circuits or unusual designs: Certain vehicles may have circuit configurations that allow more flexibility; however, these cases are relatively uncommon in everyday passenger cars.


• Pad matching considerations: If only one caliper is replaced, pads on the other wheel of the same axle may need replacement to ensure similar friction characteristics.


• Inspection requirements: A full inspection of rotors, lines, and fluid quality is essential before deciding on a single-caliper approach.

These scenarios are exceptions rather than the rule. Even when a single caliper replacement is considered, the goal remains to maintain equal braking performance across the axle and preserve safety margins.

Practical considerations for owners and mechanics

If you are facing a caliper replacement decision, consider these factors and discuss them with a qualified technician. They help ensure that the vehicle remains safe and compliant with manufacturer guidelines and local regulations.

Parking brake and rear calipers

Rear calipers that also function as parking brakes add another layer of complexity. When a rear caliper serves both braking and parking functions, replacing just one side can have additional implications for parking-brake effectiveness and pad wear. Always verify the specific design for your vehicle.

What this means for safety, testing, and warranties

Balancing braking performance is central to safety. After any caliper work, technicians typically bleed the system, top up or replace brake fluid, and perform a bedding-in procedure for new pads and calipers. A road-test and verification of braking feel, pull, and ABS signals are standard steps. Some warranties require adherence to OEM service procedures, which often recommends paired caliper replacement on an axle to avoid coverage disputes.

Recommended approach for most owners

For the majority of drivers, the prudent approach is to replace both calipers on the affected axle, along with inspecting and possibly replacing pads and rotors as needed. This approach minimizes imbalances, reduces the likelihood of subsequent service calls, and aligns with common shop practices and manufacturer guidance.

Summary

Replacing only one brake caliper is not typically advised because it can create braking imbalance and uneven wear. The standard practice is to replace calipers in pairs on the same axle, while inspecting pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines. In rare cases, a single-caliper replacement may be appropriate if the opposite side is in excellent condition and all axle components are inspected and deemed balanced. Always consult a qualified technician, follow the vehicle’s service manual, and prioritize safety through thorough testing after any brake work.

What happens if I only change one brake?

Replacing only one component, either brake pads or brake rotors, can lead to uneven wear on the remaining older part. This imbalance may cause the vehicle to pull to one side during braking, resulting in an inconsistent–and potentially unsafe–driving experience.

Do I have to bleed all four brakes if I replace one caliper?

No, you do not have to bleed all four brakes, but it is recommended to bleed at least the caliper that was replaced to remove any air from the system. However, if the brake fluid is old, it is a good practice to bleed the entire system to flush out the old fluid and prevent future corrosion. 
Bleeding just one caliper

• If you are careful during the replacement to minimize the introduction of air, you can often get away with just bleeding the one caliper. 
• You must bleed the specific caliper that was replaced to ensure no air has entered the system on that wheel. 
• The process involves using a bleeder screw on the new caliper and pushing fluid through until no more bubbles appear. 

Recommending a full brake flush 

• Bleeding all four brakes is the best way to ensure no air is in the entire system and to replace all the old brake fluid. 
• If the brake fluid is old and discolored, it has likely absorbed moisture, which can cause rust and damage the brake system over time. 
• Bleeding the whole system is an opportunity to completely flush out the old fluid and replace it with fresh fluid. 

How to bleed brakes

• If you are only bleeding the one caliper, focus on that one until no air comes out. 
• If you are bleeding all four, follow the correct sequence, starting with the wheel furthest from the master cylinder and moving to the closest. 
• Common sequence:
  1. Right rear
  2. Left rear
  3. Right front
  4. Left front 

What is a common mistake when replacing a caliper?

Mistake #1: Neglecting the Caliper and Its Hardware
This is arguably the most common oversight in a DIY brake job. Many people focus only on swapping the old pads and rotors for new ones. They completely ignore the brake caliper, the hydraulic clamp responsible for squeezing the pads against the rotor.

Can I replace one brake caliper?

Yes, you can replace only one brake caliper, but it is not recommended because it can lead to an imbalance in braking, causing the vehicle to pull to one side. It is best practice to replace calipers in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure equal hydraulic force and friction for balanced braking performance. If you do choose to replace only one, it is crucial to also replace the brake pads and rotors on that side to match the new caliper. 
This video explains why it's better to replace both calipers at the same time: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jun 8, 2022
Risks of replacing only one caliper

• Brake pull: A new caliper may have more "bite" than an older one, causing the vehicle to pull to the side with the new caliper when braking. 
• Uneven wear: The imbalance can lead to uneven wear on the remaining components like brake pads and rotors. 
• Premature failure: If one caliper failed, the other may be close to failing as well due to similar operating conditions and age. 

When you might consider replacing just one

• Budget constraints: If the cost of replacing both is prohibitive, replacing just one may be a temporary solution. 
• Vehicle condition: On a very high-mileage car or one you don't plan to keep much longer, you might choose to only replace the faulty one. 
• Clear failure: If the caliper has a clear and complete failure (like a seized piston) and the other is confirmed to be in good working order, replacing just one may seem reasonable. 

Important considerations

• If you replace only one caliper, you must replace the brake pads and rotors on that side. 
• When replacing any part of the brake system, it is also a good idea to inspect and possibly replace brake hoses as they can fail and cause similar symptoms. 
• Regardless of how many calipers you replace, you will need to bleed the brake system to remove any air. 

This video demonstrates the process of replacing a brake caliper: 1mChrisFixYouTube · Sep 8, 2014