Brake Caliper Defects Spark Industry Debate

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A recent independent study by Brake Engineering has revealed significant defects in new brake calipers entering the aftermarket, prompting a broader industry discussion on parts quality, skills, and regulation. The study identified 29 structural and mechanical defects in three brands, all failing to meet OEM standards. This finding has ignited concerns within the industry, with calls for improved standards and regulations.

Key Highlights:

• Brake Engineering’s study uncovered 29 defects in three brands of new calipers, raising safety concerns.
• All identified defects involved lower-grade materials and did not meet OEM tolerances.
• Howard Horwich of Horwich Motor Engineers emphasized that the findings reflect broader issues in the trade, including the need for better skills and regulation.
• Horwich highlighted the risk of unskilled technicians using inferior parts, contributing to unsafe vehicles on the road.
• Mark Hallam, Marketing Manager at Brake Engineering, stressed the importance of high-quality parts and the need for industry-wide engagement to raise standards.

Howard Horwich of Horwich Motor Engineers remarked, “Having spent 50 years in the motor trade, I am concerned by the direction of the overall market. I have invested at every opportunity in my business and my own personal development over the years, having also trained mechanics on a supplier’s behalf. But, there is still nothing to stop anybody from opening up a workshop with no skillset or experience. This results in unskilled technicians using poor quality parts and practices, meaning more dangerous cars on UK roads.”

See also: Brake Engineering Highlights Critical Defects in New Caliper Brands

He added that the report’s findings were unsurprising and stressed the need to raise standards and prices across the garage market to prevent good businesses and technicians from being negatively impacted.

Mark Hallam, Marketing Manager at Brake Engineering, underscored the significance of the debate, stating, “It’s important that garages are entering the debate, and we have seen considerable engagement on the issue of parts quality across multiple platforms. We will continue to champion the use of high-quality parts, where performance specifications are met and the production process is fully traceable, which contribute to raising industry standards.”

The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for improved regulation and quality control in the automotive industry, particularly as it pertains to the safety and reliability of essential components like brake calipers.