Bolt On Caliper Covers? Trust The Answer

Caliper covers vs. caliper color

Any car fanatic knows that the most impressive vehicle is the one that gets the details right, and nothing quite does the beauty of those new rims like a set of painted brake calipers sitting right behind them.

In the past, a car’s brake calipers toiled in the dark behind the spokes of smaller-diameter rims. With the development of reliable low-profile tires and larger rims, a car’s brakes have moved out of the shadows and into the limelight. Body-colored or contrasting color brake calipers is a not-so-minor detail that really makes a car stand out from the crowd.

Performance parts manufacturers understand that their customers want to show off their vehicle’s upgrades, so Brembo’s famous red brake calipers have become the performance standard for the automotive aftermarket world. This was a brilliant piece of marketing from Brembo, because car fanatics around the world would look at a fast car, scan down to the wheels and immediately make the association: “All fast cars have Brembo brakes.”

But Brembo is far from the only manufacturer of high-quality and high-performance brake pads.

Manufacturers of high-performance cars have followed the trend and now offer many colored calipers direct from the factory. But what are your options if you can’t afford a six-figure supercar? If you’re proud of your vehicle and looking for ways to improve the small details, you can paint your own calipers or add caliper covers.

What is the difference? Let’s take a look.

caliper color

Several companies offer special purpose caliper paints that give your car’s calipers that extra touch of color that would thwart even a Brembo brake. Painting your car’s brake calipers gives them a factory new look. For that true custom look, nothing beats painting your existing calipers.

When it comes to brake caliper color, it should be noted that it is not a normal color. Think of the environment it must survive: extreme heat and inclement weather conditions, plus rocks and other debris constantly being thrown off the road. You can’t expect to pick up a can of spray paint and expect satisfactory results. Dupli-Color and VHT have both been making quality caliper paint products for a long time, so they know what it takes to achieve a lasting finish.

Dupli-Color paint products are designed to provide a tough coating that resists chipping and cracking from road debris and heat stress. You have several color options that you will likely need to consider as a contrast to your car’s paint color. Don’t bet on finding an exact match to your car’s paintwork, but there’s nothing wrong with that.

VHT has literally made a name for itself as the company that makes caliper paints that withstand the high heat emanating from your braking system. The company’s name is an acronym for “Very High Temperatures”. Their paint is designed to withstand temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Their color options are similar to Dupli-Color, so plan to look for a contrasting color.

paint sets

Brake paint kits come with all the special tools you need to finish the job: caliper cleaner, paint, stirrer, tape, and a brush.

Speaking of brushes, you also have uses once you start comparing paint sets. Some paint sets use spray paint, others include a can and brush. Buying a spray paint kit realistically obliges you to remove the calipers from your car as you will never be able to contain the overspray and keep your wheel nice and clean.

Conversely, using a brush makes it easier to paint the calipers without disassembling them, but you may run the risk of leaving visible brush marks on your finished product. It all depends on how handy you already are with a brush.

The bottom line is, the paint isn’t expensive at all, but the work itself requires an investment of other resources on your part, including tools, skills, and time.

The work

Painting your calipers sounds like a simple task, but you need to make a few important decisions before you begin.

You could paint them without removing your calipers, but the amount of prep work to keep your other brake system parts and wheels paint-free is often more trouble than it’s worth. Also keep in mind that paint prefers to adhere to a clean surface. It’s hard to adequately clean the surfaces of a caliper when they’re still surrounded by the other parts in the wheel arch, and it’s hard to overstate the importance of thoroughly cleaning calipers. It would be a shame to spend all that time and money on a paint job that falls apart within a year.

On the other hand, if you want to remove the brake calipers, you have to work with the hydraulic lines and the brake fluid system. That’s at least as much work as preparing the surface for a clean coat of paint. Removing the calipers still gives you full access to every nook and cranny of your calipers, giving you total control over the quality of your cleaning and prep.

So what’s the best choice for you? Now how satisfied are you with the brake job? Removing the calipers will undoubtedly give you a better end product, but if you’re not comfortable with this type of job, a passable job is better than no job at all. And when it comes to your braking system, you definitely want to make sure you’re getting the job done right.

caliper covers

As with any automotive product, there is a wide range of quality in the world of brake caliper covers. Plastic ABS caliper covers can provide that vibrant, eye-catching pop of color behind all four wheels that some people are looking for. Plastics don’t oxidize or discolor with age, and thanks to the inclusion of heat-resistant silicone, they can handle almost anything you can throw at them.

Quality, custom-fit aluminum caliper covers are significantly more expensive, but in this case you absolutely get what you pay for.

MGP is the legendary manufacturer of high quality brake caliper covers. Your reputation is hard-earned and well-deserved. Their calipers are made from aircraft-grade aluminum and are designed to only fit one caliper model. When you order your caliper covers for your specific vehicle, a perfect fit is guaranteed.

Why should you choose caliper covers over paint?

If your calipers aren’t anything special to begin with, repainting isn’t necessarily the best solution. We are reminded of a famous saying about cosmetic products about a specific farm animal. Of course, you always have the option to upgrade your brakes, which brings other benefits in the performance department as well. However, buying performance brakes with more attractive calipers means committing to more expensive pads and rotors for life. It’s a worthwhile investment if you’re planning on getting your car on the track. But will you ever really put your car on the track?

What if you’re just interested in a cosmetic upgrade? Brake caliper covers could be the solution you are looking for. Caliper covers are a snap to install, requiring only basic hand tools and access to the calipers behind the wheels. If you have a reliable jack and the tools to remove the wheel, you can install these caliper covers in an afternoon.

Ease of installation is just one benefit caliper covers have over painting. Brake caliper covers can also help protect your wheels from brake dust. The caliper covers redirect the dust coming off your brake pads to the rear of the vehicle, so less of it is thrown onto the outer surfaces of your wheels. You spent a pretty penny on these wheels, so wouldn’t it be nice to save yourself cleaning the brake dust every weekend?

As anyone with a rudimentary understanding of physics will tell you, brakes work by converting kinetic energy into heat from friction created between your brake pads and your brake discs. These systems can only handle so much heat before their friction-generating abilities are reduced, which in turn affects performance. Adding extra layers of material to your car’s braking system must have a detrimental effect on their performance, right?

Not correct. Calipers actually draw heat away from your brakes, improving your braking performance. Since high-quality calipers are made of aluminum, it is essentially a bolt-on heatsink. Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat, which explains its popularity in cookware. Computer manufacturers also use aluminum heatsinks to keep CPUs cool.

In an instrumented test, MGP found that their caliper covers actually reduced the heat of an active braking system by 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. There aren’t many cosmetic upgrades that can provide such an important performance improvement.

Install brake caliper covers

Your caliper cover package will have specific instructions, but the basics are simple. The first step is to remove the wheel. Then you install the caliper cover clip and finally the caliper covers themselves. You might install the caliper cover first and the clip last, but either way the job is so easy.

How do you vote?

At this point, you should have a good grasp of the ins and outs of both caliper paint and caliper covers. Now it’s time to make sense of how they relate to each other.

Costs

In pure dollar terms, a set of quality caliper covers is five to ten times more expensive than a set of caliper paint. However, when you factor in the time, tools, and expertise required to do a quality job, the overall cost of the paint is arguably higher with the caliper paint. It’s hard to declare a winner here, as it all depends on your skill and willingness to put up the welding capital that makes caliper paint so affordable.

An alternative to consider is a set of ABS plastic caliper covers. This fills the gap between paint and aluminum covers quite well, offering the affordability of caliper paint and the ease of installing the caliper covers.

Another factor to consider is the long-term cost comparison. A quality caliper paint job can reasonably last three or four years, while a set of quality aluminum caliper covers can last seven to ten years. In the long run, the costs of the two options are much more comparable than at first glance.

Ease of installation

Caliper painting requires very thorough disassembly and cleaning to achieve the best results, and at the very least careful preparation of the wheel arch for a stand-in-place paint job.

Caliper covers require you to remove your wheels and use some common hand tools to install the covers. The caliper covers win here hands down.

The finished look

Cost and installation are important, but the true value of a cosmetic upgrade always comes down to how good the finished product looks. What is the use of spending money if you are not satisfied with the result?

Appearance is always going to be pretty subjective, but there are a few standards we can use to judge the two options.

Some people in the auto mod community appreciate the “factory” look and will go to great lengths to downplay anything that even hints at “aftermarket”. If this applies to you, a painted caliper is the best way to achieve that “factory” look.

However, you may not have a car that began life as a dedicated high-performance vehicle. If that’s the case, your car’s calipers may not have been designed to see the light of day. Painting an ugly caliper isn’t going to change much. By installing caliper covers you can ensure that your wheel arches look just as good as the rest of your car.

Some enthusiasts will argue that caliper covers look cheesy and scream “aftermarket,” but that’s a decision everyone should make for themselves. And frankly, these naysayers are probably unaware of the exciting new options available in the caliper cover market. A factory-like look is definitely possible with brake caliper covers.

Ultimately, there is no clear winner here. Your choice depends entirely on your goals and priorities.

The last word

As with almost everything in this world, there is no definitive one-size-fits-all option here. Caliper paint offers several benefits that you just can’t match with caliper covers. On the other hand, caliper covers make more sense to many people. If we had a clear winner between the two, the other product would have no reason to exist.

Whatever your final decision, we have options to suit every need and budget. Browse our selection of caliper covers and caliper paint kits and contact our customer service representatives with any questions or concerns.

If you’ve installed a set of aftermarket wheels on your car or truck, you’ve probably noticed how they show off everything behind them in a way your OEM wheels just couldn’t. Your factory calipers are now suddenly visible to the world, and chances are they don’t live up to the high standards of cleanliness that your new wheels and tires set. Or you’ve got a nice set of factory wheels that expose the braking hardware and it’s a look you feel could use some improvement.

While painting the calipers may be a viable solution for some, caliper covers have their own built-in benefits, including ease of installation.

We have heard from some customers who are reluctant to proceed with the caliper cover purchase for fear of cumbersome and complicated installation. But no fear! Installation is easier than you might think. In fact, the hardest part of the job is jacking up the vehicle to remove the wheel and tire assembly. Once that’s done and out of the way, caliper cover installation can be completed in just minutes per wheel using basic hand tools. You do NOT have to touch the vehicle’s braking system!

All caliper covers we sell are vehicle specific for a perfect fit.

The caliper covers we sell are vehicle specific – meaning they have been carefully designed to fit the dimensions and clearances of your make and model OEM calipers and associated braking hardware. Mounting brackets and clips for the covers are placed exactly where they need to be for easy installation without drilling or modification.

When it comes to brake dust, caliper covers are good at keeping it out. This black powdery residue doesn’t build up as much on your wheels and your car will look cleaner between washes. Should you decide to clean behind the caliper covers on a regular basis, they can be temporarily removed just as easily as installing them.

The instructions below are of a general nature and apply to all brands of calipers. We stock the full line of MGP caliper covers as well as the ACC (American Car Craft) stainless steel caliper covers.

Steps to install a caliper cover

Fitting the caliper cover is very easy and only takes a few minutes per wheel (after the wheel/tire assembly has been removed). All the necessary hardware is included, and basic hand tools are all you need. Depending on your vehicle’s original caliper design, your kit may come with “slot” or “bolt” type clips or brackets. Below we have outlined the steps typically associated with installing the caliper cover.

A NOTICE! Before you begin, measure the clearance between the wheel and the caliper. There must be at least 1/8 inch clearance for the caliper covers to fit.

ATTENTION! When removing any wheel, be sure to follow all workshop safety practices! This includes, but is not limited to: the use of a properly sized jack, the use of jack stands for support, and the correct torque of lug nuts/bolts during reinstallation.

Depending on the vehicle application, your brake pads may have tie wires that can create a clearance issue when installing the caliper cover. If necessary, use pliers to bend and straighten these wires. This is absolutely safe and does not affect the braking function at all.

“Slot” type clips or mounts.

Step 1

First place the caliper cover on top of the caliper – center it over the front. Brackets attached to the cover piece should be flush with the corner areas of the caliper bracket.

step 2

To secure the caliper cover in place, slide any separate clips over the cover bracket (with bolts) and the caliper bracket below. These clips should be tight.

step 3

You will receive lock nuts with your kit. Thread them onto the threaded studs and tighten with light hand pressure using a hand wrench or socket wrench. Check the clearance to make sure there is enough room between the clip and the brake disc to slip a business card through without binding – this is about 1/8 inch if using a feeler gauge.

Do not overtighten the lock nuts! They should be tightened to 25 inch-lbs, or finger tight and then turn an additional 1/2 turn.

In some cases, the tabs on the caliper covers may need to be adjusted to get the best fit. With a pair of pliers, the tabs can be bent slightly up or down so that the cover is as flush as possible with the caliper.

“Bolt” type clips or mounts.

Step 1

First, slide the clips that come with your kit onto/around each side of the caliper bracket. These clips should be tight.

step 2

Place the cover over the caliper and position the holes in the cover bracket piece over the studs on the clips you installed in step 1. Since everything is designed to be a secure fit, fitting the second bracket position over the stud may require some extra pressure.

step 3

You will receive lock nuts with your kit. Thread them onto the studs to lock the caliper cover in place. Tighten the nuts with light hand pressure using a hand wrench or socket wrench. Check the clearance to make sure there is enough room between the clip and the brake disc to slip a business card through without binding – this is about 1/8 inch if using a feeler gauge.

Do not overtighten the lock nuts! They should be tightened to 25 inch-lbs, or finger tight and then turn an additional 1/2 turn.

In some cases, the tabs on the caliper covers may need to be adjusted to get the best fit. With a pair of pliers, the tabs can be bent slightly up or down so that the cover is as flush as possible with the caliper.

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What are car brake caliper covers used for?

Whether your vehicle comes equipped with Original Equipment wheels or an aftermarket purchase, the modern thin, large diameter spoked wheels used on our vehicles look great. However, the construction of thin spokes exposes many mechanical parts of the wheels. Some of these exposed mechanical parts, namely the brake calipers, do not improve the vehicle’s appearance. There aren’t many things you can do to solve the problem of unsightly calipers. However, this is where brake caliper covers for cars come into play.

So that your bikes always look good

Brake Caliper Covers easily fit over your vehicle’s brake calipers and make them look exceptional. Brake caliper covers are made to fit your car’s make and model to ensure a perfect fit. They are made from the highest quality aluminum available and ours come in a variety of different standard colours. We also offer custom color options to ensure your car brake caliper covers perfectly match the look of your vehicle. These great looking and durable engineering parts are built to last and keep your car looking fantastic for years to come.

Cleanliness and extending brake life

However, caliper covers do more than just make your car look good. The caliper covers keep your wheels cleaner as they reduce brake dust and can keep your car cleaner between washes. Additionally, the caliper covers can act as a heat sink, drawing heat away from your calipers. This helps reduce the potential for brake fade and extends the overall life of your vehicle’s braking system.

All in all, caliper covers help keep your car looking great and potentially extend the life of your vehicle’s brake components. A win-win situation for every car owner. If you are interested in learning more about our caliper cover options, you can browse our available options here. If you have any questions about our caliper covers, please contact us. We are always happy to help our customers.

June 29, 2018 | Asher Stefani

One of the top questions we get from customers is, “Where do we get our caliper covers installed?”

BEST PLACES FOR INSTALLATION OF CALIPER COVERS

Small tire shops or body shops are the best locations to have your caliper covers installed. We have compiled a list of shops that are familiar with our product and have already fitted MGP brake pads. We recommend calling ahead to see how much they would charge to install MGP caliper covers.

Find a local installer near you

WHAT ABOUT A CAR DEALERSHIP?

We are licensed by Ford, GM, Mopar, Honda and Acura. So if your vehicle falls under these categories you can always go to your local dealer and give them a call again or visit our website if there are any questions.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PAYING FOR THE INSTALLATION OF YOUR CALIPER COVERS

1. Some mechanics, whether they work at one of the above locations or just a local mechanic, will charge you for the installation, then proceed with the installation, and then tell you the caliper covers are not secure, and then will they charge you for the costs take them off again.

(DON’T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU)

TRUTH: Caliper covers are officially licensed by Ford, GM, Mopar, Honda and Acura and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure the highest level of safety. In most cases, if the clips rub the rotor a bit, you can bend them up and off the rotor with a flathead screwdriver. If you have any concerns, have the mechanic walk you over to our website or give us a call at 877-995-0003 and we’ll go through it.

2. Some mechanics along the same lines will say that caliper covers will overheat your brakes and shorten their lifespan.

TRUTH: They’re made of aluminum, so instead of trapping brake heat, they dissipate brake heat and reduce overall heat by 15-30 degrees.

3. Anywhere that tries to charge you more than $200 for installation is overcharging and should be avoided unless that’s the only option you have.

TRUTH: The fee for installing caliper covers shouldn’t be more than $100-$200 since it’s a simple install and the only real work is taking the wheels off. Installing the caliper covers themselves only takes about 15 minutes total and removing and installing the wheels takes about 45 minutes. Our technician will do the job in about 30 to 45 minutes.

If you have any installation questions, please visit our website and view the installation page or call us

at 877-995-0003 and we’ll take care of you.

​​​​​​​​Some end up in prison for murder, others for armed robbery, and still others for selling counterfeit products. This is a true story about eight Japanese citizens who were arrested for selling counterfeit Brembo covers originating in China.

For those of you unfamiliar with the term ‘cover’, it refers to the plastic (or in rare cases aluminum) covers that go over the caliper to improve the overall aesthetics(?).

When these are used, the caliper is no longer visible from the outside. Police in Aichi Prefecture, in the Chubu region of Japan, have arrested eight people for selling 87 plastic covers that come from China but are marked with the Brembo logo.

The number 8 is a symbol of prosperity and wealth in China, but this time it didn’t have the desired effect. As we are all generous at Brembo, we would like to cheer you up with 8 points that take an in-depth look at the whole incident. We hope you have better luck than the 8 crooks who got arrested.​

When it comes to brakes we can all spot the big Brembo logo on some caliper covers and while we may not see exactly why, we know it means the brakes are good. But Brembo isn’t just for aftermarket fitment, there are some big luxury and sport brands that offer Brembo brakes from the factory, like Audi and BMW. But Brembo brakes are also known for being on the high end, and for good reason.

What makes Brembo brakes different

Brembo brakes differ from standard brakes that you might find on lower-end cars, which are designed for functionality and comfort rather than performance and luxury. But why are they actually different from standard brakes?

For one, Brembo brakes are made of a high-friction material to optimize braking performance. Also, most Brembo rotors are drilled and slotted, something you’ve probably seen on sports cars before. The drilled holes and slots increase the surface area of ​​the rotor and allow for more effective heat dissipation.

Brembo disc brakes on a Ducati Panigale V4 R at ExCel on February 14, 2020 in London, England | John Keeble

Related: You may be using your brakes incorrectly

When brakes start to overheat they can warp or cause brake failure, and while this is uncommon in the more popular cars you see on your daily commute, it’s a potential problem when attempting to drive a car at higher speeds to stop.

Brembo brakes are also designed to be lighter, which reduces the overall weight of the vehicle and improves the vehicle’s braking performance.

Are Brembo brakes worth the extra expense?

The answer to this question really depends on your personal preferences, but also on what kind of car you drive. You can find a way to fit a Brembo braking system to many cars, but some cars don’t need the extra braking power. Adding larger heavy-duty brakes isn’t necessary, and for reasons other than style and brand, they don’t do much to improve your car’s braking performance if you have a regular everyday driver.

If you have a high performance or luxury car, especially ones that come factory fitted with Brembo brakes, you probably won’t be disappointed with their quality or use.

A detail of the tire on Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s #88 National Guard Chevrolet during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series FedEx 400 to benefit Autism Speaks at Dover International Speedway | Patrick Smith

Which cars have Brembo brakes?

You can fit Brembo brakes to many cars after purchase, but Brembo brakes are so notoriously reliable and powerful that many automakers have banded together to use Brembo brakes straight from the factory.

Some of the cars you might see with Brembo brakes are rare and exotic supercars and hypercars that rely on reliable braking systems to safely slow them down when they’re going well over 100 mph – or even 125 mph – drive. These include the Porsche 918 Spyder, Pagani Zonda, Corvette Z01 and Dodge Viper SRT.

RELATED: Can You Drive a Dodge Viper Every Day?

Brembo brakes may not be the only high performance braking system out there, but they are one of the most well known and respected even if you don’t know much about cars.

Benefits of Caliper Paint

Affordable upgrade. Typically, most upgrades to your vehicle can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Brake caliper paint is quite cheap. You can still achieve a personalized look without breaking your piggy bank.

Typically, most upgrades to your vehicle can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Brake caliper paint is quite cheap. You can still achieve a personalized look without breaking your piggy bank. A personal touch. It’s easy to express your style with caliper paint. There is a wide range of colors and designs to choose from. In fact, you can even paint each caliper a different color. The calipers can accent your wheels and really make your paint job stand out. The possibilities are endless.

It’s easy to express your style with caliper paint. There is a wide range of colors and designs to choose from. In fact, you can even paint each caliper a different color. The calipers can accent your wheels and really make your paint job stand out. The possibilities are endless. Little mechanical knowledge required. Aside from knowing how to remove your wheels and tires, painting your calipers is all you need to do with some tape, plastic, and time. Even if you have to remove the calipers to cover the entire surface, you can easily reinstall them later.

Aside from knowing how to remove your wheels and tires, painting your calipers is all you need to do with some tape, plastic, and time. Even if you have to remove the calipers to cover the entire surface, you can easily reinstall them later. Temporary change. One of the best things about caliper paint is that you can easily paint over it if you change your mind about the color. All you have to do is buy another can or two to achieve the new look.

Caliper paint can give you similar results to more expensive brakes without the high expense., gettyimages

Types of caliper paints

Why You Should Trust Us Our ratings are based on a combination of real-world testing, expert input, “crowd wisdom” ratings from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always strive to provide real, accurate guides to help you make the best choices. Learn more

Spray can

Typically, aerosol spray cans of caliper paint are enamel based. They come in 11 or 12 ounce cans and can have any finish. Whether you want metallic, matte, glossy or any other type of finish, there is plenty to choose from. Most aerosol caliper paints require a few coats for a finished look, so application time is longer. Unless otherwise noted, aerosol caliper paints are not necessarily designed for high heat environments.

dip cans

In order to use a dipping can on your calipers, you must remove them from the vehicle. This isn’t something you have to do with brush kits, vinyl sheets, or aerosol cans of caliper paint. However, using a dipping can can increase caliper color uniformity, and you’ll likely only need one coat.

epoxy

While epoxy caliper paints are more chemically volatile than other types of caliper paints, you get more in terms of durability. Although the application process requires safety measures to protect your skin from the harsh chemicals in epoxy caliper paints, the finish is long-lasting and more durable than other types. Paint kits typically use epoxy based caliper paints to help the pigment adhere to the surface of the caliper.

vinyl film

Armed with a heat gun and a razor blade, you can easily apply vinyl wrap to your calipers for a complete and uniform look. These kits come with vinyl sheets that heat fuse to your caliper. Simply trim the edges to remove excess foil as you shape the foil onto the caliper. Applying vinyl caliper paint film can be more difficult if you are not experienced with a heat gun, but it also requires much less drying time.

top brands

dupli color

As part of the Sherwin Williams family, Dupli-Color shares the paint brand’s proud heritage. The Dupli-Color subsidiary was founded in 1938 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. If you like what Dupli-Color has to offer, check out the Ceramic Torque ‘N’ Teal Engine Paint. It’s a great way to liven up any engine bay.

Rust Oleum

Founded in 1921, Rust-Oleum develops solutions for land and sea vehicles. Based in Vernon Hills, Illinois, Rust-Oleum’s product line includes a number of innovative solutions, from custom rust-proof brake caliper paint to Chevrolet-specific orange engine paint.

POR-15

POR-15 is headquartered in New York and has been in the industry since 1977. Specially formulated for your rust covered surfaces, POR-15’s products will help prevent the spread of rust and improve the overall appearance of your vehicle. Its high temperature heat resistant paint is just one example of what they offer.

VHT

With over 10 years experience in the industry, VHT (or Very High Temperature) makes – you guessed it – high temperature paint for all your automotive needs. VHT is also part of the Sherwin Williams family and is headquartered in Ohio. Check out the gold caliper color if you want to add some sparkle to your ride.

Eastwood

Based in Pennsylvania, Eastwood has been serving customers for over 40 years. The company offers a variety of products for every automotive need, so be sure to check out their wide selection. You might even find products like Eastwood Long Lasting Heat Resistant Caliper Paint.

Red is a popular caliper color, but you can choose from a variety of other shades as well. , Getty Images

Brake caliper paint prices

$5-$20: For less than the price of an oil change, you can buy caliper paint in aerosol and dip cans. Most aerosol cans are 11-12 ounces, regardless of the type of finish. Scuba cans in this price range are typically 8 ounces.

For less than the price of an oil change, you can buy caliper paint in aerosol and dip cans. Most aerosol cans are 11-12 ounces, regardless of the type of finish. Scuba cans in this price range are typically 8 ounces. $20-$50: If you prefer scuba cans, anti-rust coatings are available at this price point. Most brush-on kits can also be found in this price range. You can also buy vinyl wrap for around $25-$50.

If you prefer scuba cans, there are anti-rust coatings in this price range. Most brush-on kits can also be found in this price range. You can also buy vinyl wrap for around $25-$50. $50 and up: Any paint available over $50 will usually be high temp or branded paint. Some brush-on kits are around $60-$65, but you’re not necessarily paying for higher quality.

main features

High temperature

Although you may not realize it, your brake calipers heat up very quickly. In fact, they can reach incredibly high temperatures in a matter of minutes, whether you’re driving in the dead of winter or in the heat of summer. Using high temperature paint is crucial as without this factor the paint you apply could chip and even melt within seconds.

durability

The best caliper paint should be long lasting and durable. Whether you decide to go with a simple application method or spend an entire weekend painting your calipers, it’s probably not something you want to do as often as you change your car’s oil. Save time and money by choosing a caliper color that lasts for years.

Simple application

Besides durability, the best caliper paint should be easy to apply. That said, if you use a dipping can, the paint should take hold within a few dips. Aerosol cans should direct the pigment, and brush-on kits should include precision brushes that allow for detailed application. While some processes require you to remove the caliper from the vehicle, they should not require any other form of disassembly.

Fast drying

Nobody wants to wait hours for the paint to dry. The best caliper paints should dry within an hour or two. Most aerosol cans take a few minutes between coats to form a firm coat, which can be the case with brush paints as well.

Full Coverage

The best brake caliper paints should not only dry quickly, but also apply well with no more than two or three coats. You’ll likely need to apply at least two coats to build up a base coat and then ensure opacity, but additional coats beyond that shouldn’t be necessary. This is especially true for brush and dip cans of caliper paint, where the paint itself is likely to be more concentrated.

Other considerations

Paint Type: In addition to the different types of caliper paints and delivery methods described above, there are also different types of paint bases, such as enamel and epoxy. There is also vinyl film. Enamel paints can be used at high temperatures, but epoxy paints usually withstand heat better. Vinyl wraps may not work as well depending on what temperature they are rated for.

In addition to the different types of caliper paints and delivery methods that we have described above, there are also different types of paint bases such as: Enamel and epoxy. There is also vinyl film. Enamel paints can be used at high temperatures, but epoxy paints usually withstand heat better. Vinyl wraps may not work as well depending on what temperature they are rated for. Quantity: A good rule of thumb is to purchase at least two cans of aerosol caliper paint. If your calipers are a lot bigger than your fist, you probably need more paint than that. Racing calipers can have anywhere from four to eight pistons. So the higher the piston count, the more paint you are likely to need.

The best brake caliper paints reviews and recommendations 2020

Best Overall Price Dupli-Color Black Brake Caliper Aerosol Check Current Price We selected the Dupli-Color Black Brake Caliper Aerosol as our top choice for the best caliper color. This 12-ounce Black Caliper Paint Aerosol Can is an easy way to refresh your calipers for a cleaner, more polished look. If you’re going for a stock look or want to change it up a bit by adding a pop of color, Dupli-Color has a variety of shades to choose from.

This particular product offers a complete package. Each can features an EZ Touch conical nozzle that directs pigment where the nozzle is aimed for better coverage and less waste. The ceramic resins in the caliper color can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Dupli-Color reports that the caliper paint is dry to the touch in 30 minutes and ready to use in an hour, making painting your calipers a relatively quick upgrade. Once applied, the paint is both chip and brake dust resistant, so you won’t have to repeat the process again anytime soon.

Our biggest concern with Dupli-Color’s Black Caliper Aerosol lies in the fact that it’s not necessarily designed for high temperature applications. While 500 degrees Fahrenheit is certainly pretty intense heat, environmental factors can cause your brakes to get even hotter. However, Dupli-Color makes it easy for anyone who wants to paint their brake calipers.

Best Value Rust-Oleum 12 Ounce Red Caliper Spray Paint Check Latest Award Made in the United States, Rust-Oleum’s Red Caliper Spray Paint won our value pick for Best Caliper Color. Although we featured the red caliper spray product, Rust-Oleum offers multiple shades to achieve the look you want.

Rust-Oleum packages this aerosol spray in a 12-ounce can, which should be enough to cover at least two calipers, depending on how big they are. The paint has been specially developed to resist brake dust deposits and high temperatures. In fact, Rust-Oleum boasts that its caliper paint can withstand temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Such heat resistance works well in competitive situations and in hotter climates. This high temperature caliper paint also stops rust so you don’t have to worry about your brakes crumbling underneath you. Rust-Oleum equips its spray cans with every angle spray technology, allowing you to maneuver around your calipers for better overall coverage. A comfort tip spray nozzle makes the whole experience even more enjoyable.

The only concern we have with Rust-Oleum’s Red Caliper Paint Spray is that it’s not necessarily advertised as being chemical resistant. Anything sprayed on or around your brakes has the potential to strip paint, whether in small portions or entire sections. At the same time, it’s easy for almost anyone to give their brake calipers a shine with Rust-Oleum’s Brake Caliper Paint Spray.

Honorable Mention POR-15 Red Caliper Paint Check Current Price This POR-15 product is brake caliper painting made easy. Simply dip into your calipers, hang to dry and repeat for additional coverage. You can also apply the pigment by hand for better coverage and a more even finish. There are many colors to choose from as POR-15 not only offers the red color which we offer as our honorable mention.

We chose POR-15 Red Caliper Paint because it is a versatile product that offers many benefits when painting your calipers. That 8 ounces is probably enough to paint about four mid-size calipers. As mentioned, you can dip the calipers in the paint after cleaning, or apply the paint in as many layers as you like with a brush. In any case, the paint itself offers excellent coverage in just a few coats. You can expect a durable, ceramic-like finish that’s impervious to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

One downside to the POR-15 Red Caliper Paint is that you must remove the caliper from your vehicle before painting. It is possible to hand paint your caliper with this product if you leave the caliper on the car, but full coverage is not guaranteed in this case. Apart from that, this POR-15 product is easy to use for almost everyone.

Honorable Mention G2 High Temperature Caliper Paint System Check Latest Price G2 paint has a heat resistance rating of up to 980 degrees Fahrenheit, one of the highest available. They brush on the paint, which dries harder than aerosol alternatives and won’t flake. It is available in 11 wear-resistant colors and contains everything you need to paint your brake calipers. It is designed to protect against dirt, road salt, brake fluid and loose gravel.

The color is very durable and does not fade. The kit comes with enough paint to apply at least three coats per caliper on a vehicle and is easy to use. It gives excellent results and the coating is thick and durable enough to crack your calipers. You just need to make sure you thoroughly clean the calipers and prep your vehicle prior to application.

However, the brush that comes with it is not very precise, so you may need to buy a better one. Also, you must constantly stir the paint as it can coagulate and cause uneven application. If you choose to add the decal you will need to cover it with a good quality clear coat spray epoxy to keep it from wearing off.

Honorable Mention Dupli-Color Red Single Brake Caliper Kit Check Current Price The Dupli-Color Paint Kit includes paint, caliper cleaner, a brush, masking tape, a stir stick and instructions. Because you’re applying the paint with a brush, you don’t need to remove the calipers from the vehicle. It is also ideal for rotors and drums. The paint is dry in 30 minutes and can be used in an hour. It protects against brake dust and chips and will not chip, crack or peel.

Using a brush instead of a spray is easier when preparing and creates a thick and durable coat. The color does not fade and the lacquer creates a smooth, factory-looking caliper. The kit contains more paint than you need so you don’t run out of paint. It’s great value for what you get.

One downside is that the brush that comes with it isn’t the best quality and you might want to use a better one. There have been some complaints that the paint doesn’t dry very well and stays tacky for a few days. Also, the red color may not be as bright as expected.

Honorable Mention VHT Real Red Caliper Paint Check Current Price VHT’s caliper paint is heat resistant to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, dries quickly and will not fade, chip, crack or peel. It dries completely in 30 minutes and overnight. It hardens at normal brake operating temperatures. The paint is designed for brake calipers, brake discs and brake drums and gives optimal results when used with primer and clear coat.

This color sprays on very well, offers good coverage and the color looks good, especially in bright sunlight. Aside from red, there are a variety of color options including bright yellow, glossy black, and gold. The spray can and nozzle are of good quality and the paint applies smoothly. The color is easy to apply and you can go a long way.

However, proper preparation is essential for the product to bond and cure properly. If you don’t use a clear coat, the paint can pick up brake dust and fade to a dusty color. It’s also not as thick or durable as brush paint. Another disadvantage is that brake cleaner can remove the paint from the brake calipers.

Honorable Mention Foliatec Brake Caliper & Motor Paint Paint Testing Current Price Foliatec is a Germany-based company. Its caliper paint is heat, chemical and corrosion resistant. One kit is enough to paint four brake calipers or two brake calipers and two brake drums. The brake calipers do not have to be removed for painting. The kit includes paint, brake cleaner, hardener, steel brush, spatula and disposable gloves.

The brush allows for more precise application compared to an aerosol spray. The paint hardens in about two hours, and then you can remount the wheels. It takes about five days for the paint to fully cure. If you want to repaint the calipers, simply scrape off the old paint and apply new paint. The end result is an easy-to-clean, long-lasting shine.

As with all of the products on this list, proper preparation is essential. You must remove dirt and rust with a wire brush and give the calipers a thorough cleaning before applying the paint. One downside is that this kit is a bit pricey compared to some other brands.

Honorable Mention Eastwood’s durable, heat-resistant caliper paint Check Current Price Eastwood’s caliper paint is also safe for use on brake drums and is available in red, black and silver. You can paint the calipers without disassembling the brake assemblies, or use them on new components before installing them.

The paint is heat, UV and chemical resistant and can withstand temperatures of up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit. Once applied, it’s easy to wipe away brake dust and road grime, leaving your calipers looking like new. The product comes with enough paint for four calipers. However, if you want the paint to be more durable and lustrous, you must purchase Eastwood’s Urethane Activator, which hardens and cures urethane and ceramic paints. You should also purchase the pre-paint prep spray as it is important to thoroughly clean the calipers before applying paint. These added products can increase the cost of the process.

tips

When using aerosol caliper paint, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area. Even dip cans and brush kits can be harmful if inhaled for too long. You should also wear gloves when painting to avoid transferring pigments and harmful chemicals to your skin.

An alternative to standard brake caliper paint is powder coating. While the process takes much longer and can be expensive, powder coating is more durable. If you want to powder coat your existing calipers you will need to remove brake fluid, grease and rubber seals – basically everything but the metal calipers themselves. You can also buy brand new calipers for installation.

Most of the colors available for caliper paint appear as they appear on the cap or label. However, you can try the color on a piece of scrap metal. To get the most out of this method, tape off three sections of a scrap piece and spray on one, then two, then three coats.

If you’ve never applied caliper paint before, try spray paint first. It is the easiest to install and does not require you to remove the caliper from the vehicle. Alternatively, you can try brush-on kits for the same reason.

The best time to paint your calipers is when you replace the brakes. that is, if you are a DIY or workshop mechanic and have the skills. You can easily remove the calipers when replacing the pads and rotors. As long as you can keep your car off the road for a day, the whole process shouldn’t take too long.

Painting your brake calipers can be a great way to jazz up your car’s exterior. If you are selling your vehicle and want a quick upgrade without spending a lot of money, caliper paint can be a good option. It gives an upgrade to the exterior of your car and doesn’t take much time at all.

Be sure to clean the caliper thoroughly before applying paint. This may require the use of a wire brush or scouring pad to loosen stuck dirt. The cleaner you can get the caliper, the better the paint will adhere in an even layer.

When painting your calipers, be sure to mask off anything you wish to preserve. You can use masking tape or painter’s tape along with some plastic or large sheets of wrapping paper. Any decals you wish to keep intact should be taped off as well.

frequently asked Questions

Q: Do I need to purchase a clear caliper paint to use for added durability?

A: Most available caliper paints contain some type of clear coat in the formula. Spray paints can benefit from spray clear coats as they are more prone to chipping than other types. However, you can also replace the application of a clear coat with the application of another coat of paint.

Q: How many calipers can I paint with one spray can, dip can, brush set, etc.?

A: The answer really depends on how much color you buy and in what form. Most manufacturers will tell you how much coverage you can expect from their products. Caliper paint kits typically contain enough paint to cover four calipers.

Q: If I have a larger vehicle, will I need more caliper paint than for sedans?

A: Large vehicles tend to have larger brakes because there is more weight to stop, but high-performance vehicles can also have larger brakes. Owning a larger vehicle doesn’t necessarily mean you need more caliper paint.

Q: Will the caliper paint other parts of my vehicle?

A: Caliper paint may work on some other parts of your braking system. However, you should always check what brake parts the manufacturer lists before painting any components other than the brake calipers. Some colors may only be suitable for the calipers.

Q: What can I use to clean the caliper before painting it?

A: There are a number of products that you can use to clean your brake components. To remove brake dust and dirt, use a brake cleaner similar to what you would use when replacing your brakes.

Q: Do I need to use a primer before painting my calipers?

A: There is no need to prime your calipers as long as you clean them before applying paint. Most paint is self-leveling, and even if you choose a caliper paint kit that you brush on, the paint should settle into the crevices and crevices.

Q: How do I remove old caliper paint?

A: It really depends on what your old caliper paint was made out of, but usually a caliper cleaner can remove most of the contamination on the top surface. From there you can then go down to the bare metal with sandpaper or even abrasive sponges, which are used for deep cleaning.

Q: Do I need to remove my brake lines, brake pads and entire braking system before painting my calipers?

A: Yes and no. There are certain types of caliper paint that require you to remove the calipers from your vehicle, but there are just as many methods that don’t require disassembly.

Final Thoughts

Our top pick for best caliper color is the Dupli-Color Black Brake Caliper Aerosol. It’s a simple solution to add a touch of flair to your brakes.

We are all very knowledgeable about the…

June 29, 2018 | Asher Stefani

One of the top questions we get from customers is, “Where do we get our caliper covers installed?”

BEST PLACES FOR INSTALLATION OF CALIPER COVERS

Small tire shops or body shops are the best locations to have your caliper covers installed. We have compiled a list of shops that are familiar with our product and have already fitted MGP brake pads. We recommend calling ahead to see how much they would charge to install MGP caliper covers.

Find a local installer near you

WHAT ABOUT A CAR DEALERSHIP?

We are licensed by Ford, GM, Mopar, Honda and Acura. So if your vehicle falls under these categories you can always go to your local dealer and give them a call again or visit our website if there are any questions.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PAYING FOR THE INSTALLATION OF YOUR CALIPER COVERS

1. Some mechanics, whether they work at one of the above locations or just a local mechanic, will charge you for the installation, then proceed with the installation, and then tell you the caliper covers are not secure, and then will they charge you for the costs take them off again.

(DON’T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU)

TRUTH: Caliper covers are officially licensed by Ford, GM, Mopar, Honda and Acura and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure the highest level of safety. In most cases, if the clips rub the rotor a bit, you can bend them up and off the rotor with a flathead screwdriver. If you have any concerns, have the mechanic walk you over to our website or give us a call at 877-995-0003 and we’ll go through it.

2. Some mechanics along the same lines will say that caliper covers will overheat your brakes and shorten their lifespan.

TRUTH: They’re made of aluminum, so instead of trapping brake heat, they dissipate brake heat and reduce overall heat by 15-30 degrees.

3. Anywhere that tries to charge you more than $200 for installation is overcharging and should be avoided unless that’s the only option you have.

TRUTH: The fee for installing caliper covers shouldn’t be more than $100-$200 since it’s a simple install and the only real work is taking the wheels off. Installing the caliper covers themselves only takes about 15 minutes total and removing and installing the wheels takes about 45 minutes. Our technician will do the job in about 30 to 45 minutes.

If you have any installation questions, please visit our website and view the installation page or call us

at 877-995-0003 and we’ll take care of you.