BMW E36 Caliper Rebuild Kits

Brake caliper piston seals are there to maintain brake system pressure and prevent fluid from leaking out from inside the caliper. When a seal goes bad or becomes damaged the brakes lose pressure, leading to a soft brake pedal, sticking caliper, or even a total loss of your brakes. Brake calipers also need periodic rebuilds because the inner piston can seize from rust. With a piston stuck in the retracted position, the brakes are no longer functioning on that wheel. If the caliper is stuck in the extended position it's putting clamping force on your brakes - dragging the brakes, front wheel vibrations, pulling to one side, excessive brake dust and heat, and potentially even a brake pad fire. For cars that see significant track use, regular caliper rebuilds are essential because higher temps lead to rubber seal failures sooner.

Rebuilding your calipers should be part of a regular brake overhaul. The calipers must be removed from the car and disassembled. It's not a particularly difficult job to do but is messy and takes some expertise so that you don't ruin the piston or new seals. Rebuilding calipers is more cost effective than buying replacement calipers. However you service the calipers don't prolong their maintenance until it's too late!