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How to paint a brake caliper - Scratch Repair

How to Paint Brake Calipers at Home (Step-by-Step DIY Guide)

How to paint a brake caliper? Customizing your car's brake calipers can add a stylish and personal touch to your vehicle. Applying caliper paint from an aerosol can is a straightforward process that can be done in your garage or driveway. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve professional-looking results.

How to paint brake calipers from an Aerosol: A Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Needed

  • Caliper paint aerosol can
  • Wire brush or abrasive pad
  • Brake cleaner
  • Masking tape and paper or plastic sheeting
  • High-temperature primer (if required)
  • High-temperature lacquer ( this is Required or your paint will be a Matt finish)
  • Disposable gloves
  • Safety goggles
  • Respirator mask

Preparation

  1. Safety First: Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety goggles, gloves, and a respirator mask to protect yourself from fumes and debris.

  2. Clean the Calipers: Thoroughly clean the calipers to remove any dirt, rust, and old paint. Use a wire brush or abrasive pad to scrub the calipers, ensuring all loose material is removed. Follow up with brake cleaner to ensure the surface is completely clean and free of grease and debris. This step is crucial for the paint to adhere properly.

Masking

  1. Mask Off Surrounding Areas: Use masking tape and paper or plastic sheeting to cover areas around the caliper that you don’t want to paint, such as the brake discs, brake lines, and other suspension components. Precision here will save you from cleanup later.

Painting

  1. Prime the Calipers (If Necessary): Some caliper paints require a high-temperature primer for optimal adhesion and durability. Check the instructions on your caliper paint aerosol can. If a primer is needed, apply it in thin, even coats and allow it to dry completely.

  2. Apply the Caliper Paint: Shake the aerosol can vigorously for about 2-3 minutes to ensure the paint is well-mixed. Hold the can about 8-12 inches away from the caliper and apply the paint in thin, even coats. It's better to apply several light coats rather than one heavy coat to avoid runs and drips. Allow each coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the next one.

  3. Apply High-Temperature Lacquer: After the final coat of paint has dried, apply a high-temperature lacquer to protect the finish. Shake the lacquer can well and spray it in thin, even coats, just like the paint. High-temperature lacquer is essential as it can withstand the intense heat generated by the brake calipers. This clear coat provides a durable, glossy finish that resists chipping and fading.

  4. Dry and Cure: Once you’ve achieved the desired coverage, allow the paint and lacquer to dry completely. Follow the manufacturer's recommended drying times. For best results, let the paint and lacquer cure for 24-48 hours before driving the car to ensure they have fully hardened and bonded to the caliper.

Finishing Up

  1. Remove Masking Materials: Carefully remove all the masking tape and coverings from around the calipers. Make sure not to pull off any paint or lacquer that might still be soft.

  2. Inspect Your Work: Check the calipers for any missed spots or areas that may need a touch-up. If necessary, reapply the paint or lacquer to these areas and allow additional drying time.

CHECK OUT OUR QUICK VIDEO DEMOSTRATING PAINT YOUR BRAKE CALIPER IN LESS THAN A MINUTE: CLICK HERE HOW TO PAINT BRAKE CALIPER

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_zZ9ZTG5O9Q

Tips for Best Results

  • Temperature: Make sure the temperature is within the recommended range (usually between 60°F and 80°F) for optimal paint adhesion and drying.
  • Humidity: Avoid painting on particularly humid or rainy days as high moisture levels can affect the paint's drying process.
  • Patience: Take your time with each step, especially the cleaning and masking process. Proper preparation ensures a long-lasting and professional finish.

By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking finish on your brake calipers, adding a custom touch to your vehicle that stands out. Enjoy your newly painted calipers and the compliments they’re sure to receive!

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