Brake Caliper Material Differences?

[sniper_101]

Im replacing both front calipers on my 2000. They ask if they're metal piston, or a plastic/glass material piston.

Mine are currently metal, any advantage to getting the other ones? Are the pads the same model?

If I could not have one seize up again, that'd be fantastic...

 

[zarrinvz24]

Metal pistons are better than the plastic ones as long as your not in the rust belt. There are pro's and con's to both. Plastic pistons will not absorb nearly as much heat as the metal ones, this keeps all the heat at pad and rotor and can increase brake fade. Metal pistons will transfer some of that heat to the brake fluid, and as long as your brakes are correctly bled you will experience better brakes for longer.

Years ago the phenolic pistons were known to cause sticky calipers. They also are prone to cracking and it is not recommended to rebuild the caliper. However they won't rust and should you have a pad fall out the piston won't ruin the rotor.