What Is the Part That Holds the Brake Pads?

The part that holds the brake pads is the brake caliper in a disc brake system. More precisely, the caliper houses the pistons and pads, while a caliper bracket (also called a pad carrier) and small hardware clips keep the pads aligned and secure. If a vehicle uses drum brakes instead of discs, there aren’t “pads” at all—there are brake shoes mounted to a backing plate.

How the Brake Caliper Holds and Activates the Pads

On cars, trucks, and many motorcycles with disc brakes, the caliper is the component that clamps the pads against the rotor to create stopping friction. Inside, hydraulic pistons push the inner pad; in floating calipers, the caliper body then slides so the outer pad also clamps the rotor. The pads sit in channels or against abutments, typically guided by stainless anti-rattle/abutment clips that prevent noise and ensure smooth movement.

The Role of the Caliper Bracket (Pad Carrier)

Although the caliper is the headline part, the caliper bracket—or pad carrier—does much of the “holding.” It bolts to the steering knuckle (front) or axle assembly (rear) and provides the tracks where the pads sit and slide as they wear. Guide pins allow a floating caliper to move laterally, keeping pressure even. On some performance calipers (fixed, multi-piston designs), pad retaining pins and a spring bridge lock the pads in place.

When the Vehicle Doesn’t Have Pads: Drum Brakes

Many rear axles (especially on older or economy models) use drum brakes. These don’t have pads. Instead, brake shoes are held against a backing plate with springs and hardware; a wheel cylinder pushes the shoes outward against the drum to stop the vehicle. If you’re looking at a drum setup and wondering where the “pad holder” is, you’re really looking for the backing plate and shoe hardware.

Bicycles and Other Applications

In bicycles, the term caliper still generally applies. Rim-brake calipers (or V-brake/cantilever arms) hold the pads that squeeze the wheel rim. Bicycle disc brakes use a caliper as well, with pads retained by pins or a clip, similar in function to automotive designs.

Bottom Line

If your system is a disc brake, the caliper is the part that holds—and squeezes—the brake pads, aided by a caliper bracket/pad carrier and small hardware clips or pins. If it’s a drum brake, there are no pads; shoes mount to a backing plate instead.

Summary

The brake caliper holds the brake pads in disc brake systems, with the caliper bracket (pad carrier) and retaining hardware keeping the pads aligned and secure. Drum brakes use shoes on a backing plate rather than pads, and bicycles follow the same logic: calipers hold pads in both rim and disc configurations.

What happens if brake pad clips break?

• Reduced Brake Performance: The clips help hold the brake pads in place and ensure they make proper contact with the rotor.
• Noise: Worn or loose spring clips can cause rattling or squeaking noises when braking.

Can you drive without a brake retaining clip?

You can technically drive without brake clips, but it is not recommended for normal driving as it can lead to noisy brakes, uneven brake pad wear, and potentially reduce fuel economy. Brake clips (or hardware kits) ensure proper alignment, reduce vibration, and help pads retract cleanly from the rotor, preventing drag. While some racers might remove them for specific performance gains, for most drivers, driving without them is a risk that should be addressed by replacing them as soon as possible.
 
What happens if you drive without brake clips?

• Noise: The primary purpose of these clips is to prevent rattling and squealing by securing the brake pads in place, so you will likely hear annoying noises. 
• Uneven Pad Wear: The clips ensure even pressure and proper alignment of the pads against the rotor. Without them, pads can move around, leading to uneven and accelerated wear. 
• Brake Drag: The clips help retract the pads slightly when you release the brakes. Without them, pads may remain in light contact with the rotor, causing a slight drag, which can reduce fuel efficiency and generate extra heat. 
• Compromised Safety: While not an immediate safety issue, poor pad alignment can reduce the efficiency of your brakes, meaning you won’t be able to stop as quickly or as safely as you should. 

Why you should always use them:

• They are a crucial part of the brake system, not just an optional accessory. 
• They prevent damage to the brake pads and rotors by maintaining proper alignment and reducing vibration. 
• Replacing them is an inexpensive but important step for maintaining the performance and longevity of your brake system. 

What are the clips called that hold brake pads in?

The metal clips on brake pads are typically called retaining clips or anti-rattle clips, which serve to hold the brake pads securely in the caliper bracket, prevent excessive movement and noise, and provide spring pressure to help retract the pads from the rotor when the brakes are released. These clips are consumable parts that wear out and should be replaced with new ones whenever you change your brake pads to ensure smooth operation, even wear, and to prevent damage to other brake components.
 
Functions of Brake Pad Clips

• Securely hold the pads: The clips fit into slots on the caliper bracket and provide a stable mount for the brake pads, preventing them from moving around in the caliper. 
• Reduce noise and vibration: By keeping the pads snug against the caliper, the clips minimize rattling and vibrations that can cause brake noise. 
• Help pad retraction: The spring action of the clips applies light pressure that helps push the brake pads away from the rotor after braking, reducing drag and wear. 
• Provide a smooth surface: Some clips are coated with low-friction materials to help the pads slide smoothly within the caliper. 

Why You Should Replace Them

• Wear and corrosion: Opens in new tabLike brake pads, retaining clips are exposed to heat, moisture, and road debris, causing them to rust, become corroded, and lose their spring tension over time. 
• Uneven wear and damage: Opens in new tabOld or damaged clips can lead to uneven brake pad wear, decreased braking efficiency, and potential damage to the brake rotors. 
• Improved brake job longevity: Opens in new tabReplacing the hardware with new clips ensures the new brake pads function correctly and last longer, reducing the likelihood of future issues. 

Can you drive a car if a brake pad falls off?

Not safe to drive. Front brakes provide most of the immediate stopping power, and your back brakes will try to compensate more and will wear faster and among other shortcomings. If it were me I’d try to see if I’m able to get those caliper bolts off. If I can’t then off to the mechanic!