A Guide to Replacing Your 1978-1997 Chevrolet Impala Disc Brake Calipers
Keep your classic B-Body stopping safely and reliably with the right new aftermarket calipers.
- You MUST verify your Impala's exact year and model (e.g., 1985 Base vs. 1996 SS) as calipers differ between generations.
- Always replace calipers in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure safe, balanced braking.
- Plan to replace your brake pads and brake fluid at the same time. Replacing rotors and hoses is also highly recommended.
- For a daily driver, Centric and Raybestos are trusted standard choices. For an upgrade in performance and appearance, consider Powerstop.
Signs of a Failing Brake Caliper
Brake calipers are built to last a long time, but on a classic vehicle like the 1978-1997 Impala, failures happen due to age, corrosion, and wear. A bad caliper is a serious safety issue. Look out for these common symptoms:
- Pulling to One Side: When you brake, does the car veer left or right? This can be caused by a seized caliper on one side, leading to uneven braking forces.
- Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: If a caliper seal fails and leaks brake fluid, it can let air into the system. This makes the pedal feel soft and reduces stopping power.
- Brake Fluid Leaks: Puddles of a clear or slightly yellowish, oily fluid near your wheels are a sure sign of a leak from the caliper piston seal or bleeder screw.
- Dragging Sensation or Burning Smell: A caliper piston or its slide pins can get stuck, causing the brake pad to constantly drag on the rotor. This creates a dragging feeling, reduces fuel economy, and can produce a hot, burning smell from the affected wheel. 🎬 Watch: How to tell if it's a bad caliper or hose.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: When inspecting your brakes, if the inner and outer pads on one wheel are worn down differently, it often points to a caliper that isn't moving freely.
Critical Fitment Information: Know Your Impala Generation
The 1978-1997 year range covers two different, non-consecutive generations of the Impala and its B-Body platform sibling, the Caprice.
- 1978-1985 Models: These are part of the sixth generation.
- 1994-1996 Models: These are the seventh generation, including the popular Impala SS. These models featured four-wheel disc brakes.
These generations can use different brake calipers, especially between front and rear, and between base models and the performance-oriented Impala SS. Always verify your vehicle's exact year and sub-model before ordering to ensure you get the correct part.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Caliper Brand
All the brands listed offer new, not remanufactured, calipers for your Impala. They generally fall into a few categories based on quality, performance, and price.
Performance Tier
- Powerstop: Often seen as an upgrade. Powerstop calipers are typically powder-coated (often in red) to resist corrosion and improve appearance. They are a popular choice for enthusiasts who want better-than-stock performance and durability. While generally well-regarded, check the parts upon arrival, as forum users have occasionally reported issues with incorrect hardware being included. 🎬 See this video of a Powerstop brake upgrade on an Impala.
Standard (OEM-Quality) Tier
- Raybestos & Centric: These brands are the workhorses of the aftermarket. They are widely trusted in automotive forums for providing reliable, quality parts that meet or exceed original specifications without the high price of performance parts. For a daily driver, these are a dependable and safe choice.
Economy Tier
- Cardone, Dynamic Friction, BBB Industries: These brands provide a budget-friendly solution. Cardone is a massive aftermarket supplier, though sometimes has mixed reviews, particularly for their remanufactured parts. Dynamic Friction and BBB Industries are also viable options, though less frequently discussed by Impala owners online. These are suitable for getting a vehicle back on the road safely and affordably.
Estimated Costs for a New Aftermarket Caliper
| Part Type | Estimated Price Range (Per Caliper) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Caliper | $33.23 - $113.40 |
| Remanufactured Aftermarket Caliper | $30 - $90 |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $100 - $200 |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary based on brand, location, and vehicle specifics. Labor costs are for one caliper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace brake calipers in pairs?
Yes, absolutely. You should always replace brake calipers in pairs (both front calipers or both rear calipers). This ensures that your braking is even and balanced, preventing the car from pulling to one side. Replacing only one can create a dangerous imbalance.
Are the 1994-1996 Impala SS calipers different from other models?
Yes, they can be. The Impala SS was a high-performance model with four-wheel disc brakes and may have different caliper specifications than a standard Caprice of the same year. It is essential to use your vehicle's specific trim (Impala SS) when searching for parts to guarantee correct fitment.
What else should I replace when installing new calipers?
At a minimum, you must replace the brake pads and bleed the system with fresh brake fluid. It is highly recommended to also replace the brake rotors and the flexible rubber brake hoses at the same time. Old hoses can degrade internally and cause the new caliper to stick.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough on replacing calipers and pads on an Impala.Were there any recalls on these calipers?
Our search did not find any specific NHTSA recalls for brake calipers on the 1978-1997 Chevrolet Impala. Recalls found were for much newer models. Any issues on a vehicle of this age are typically due to normal wear and tear.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Most calipers for this application are of a single-piston, floating design made from cast iron.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Signs of a Failing Brake Caliper
- Critical Fitment Information: Know Your Impala Generation
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Caliper Brand
- Performance Tier
- Standard (OEM-Quality) Tier
- Economy Tier
- Estimated Costs for a New Aftermarket Caliper
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off