How to Paint Brake Calipers (DIY Guide)

If you are on a tight budget, this guide explains how to paint brake calipers safely at home.

The results wont be as strong as 2pack products but reasonably good.

Follow each step carefully, use proper tools, and always prioritise safety when working under a vehicle.

Safety First (Read Before Starting)

Before beginning, ensure you are working on a flat, solid surface. Never rely on a jack alone to support a vehicle. Always use wheel chocks and jack stands where possible. Wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask when cleaning brake components.

Step 1: Lift and Secure the Vehicle

Start by loosening the wheel nuts on one side of the vehicle while it is still on the ground. Do not fully remove them, just break the initial tension.

You will need a hydraulic jack or scissor jack, and a suitable tyre iron or breaker bar with correct sockets.

Locate the correct jacking points using your vehicle owner manual.

Carefully raise one side of the car so both wheels are off the ground.

Optional but highly recommended: Place the vehicle securely on jack stands for added safety and stability.

Step 2: Remove the Wheels

Now fully remove the loosened wheel nuts and take off both wheels.

Keep each wheel in its original position (front left, rear left, etc.) to avoid confusion during refitting.

Step 3: Clean the Brake Calipers

Thorough cleaning is essential for paint adhesion. Remove heavy brake dust using a wire brush or Scotch-Brite pad.

Follow up by wiping the caliper thoroughly with methylated spirits or brake cleaner to remove grease and contaminants.

It is normal if some hard-to-reach areas still have minor dust remaining.

Step 4: Mask Surrounding Areas

Masking is one of the most important steps for a clean finish.

Use 36mm masking tape along with newspaper or masking paper to cover:

• Brake rotors
• Brake pads (if accessible)
• Suspension components
• Rubber boots and nearby wiring

Take your time here the more precise the masking, the better the final result.

Step 5: Apply Etch Primer

Apply a suitable etch primer such as Dulux Metalshield Etch Primer or Dy-Mark Etch Primer.

Start with a light mist coat, covering all visible areas. Wait 5-10 minutes, then apply a slightly heavier coat.

Allow the primer to fully dry before proceeding. It should feel completely dry to a light touch.

Step 6: Apply Colour Coats

Use a high-temperature caliper paint such as VHT Caliper Paint or a durable automotive enamel.

Apply multiple light coats rather than one heavy coat:

• First coat: light mist
• Second coat: light coverage
• Final coat: full even colour

Avoid over-spraying, as this can cause runs or uneven finish.

Step 7: Apply Clear Gloss Coat

Once the colour coat is dry, apply a gloss clear coat such as VHT Caliper Gloss or Dulux Duramax Gloss.

Again, use light mist coats followed by a full coat for a deep, even finish.

Stop spraying if the surface starts to look wet to avoid runs.

Step 8: Remove Masking

Allow the paint to sit for around 45 minutes before carefully removing all masking tape and paper.

Do this slowly to avoid damaging the fresh finish.

Step 9: Apply Decals (Optional)

If applying caliper decals, ensure the paint is fully dry and cured 2 to 3 hours.

Clean hands are essential. Apply decals carefully to a smooth, cured gloss surface for best adhesion and appearance.

Step 10: Refit Wheels

Reinstall the wheels and hand-tighten the wheel nuts while the vehicle is still raised.

Lower the vehicle fully before tightening the wheel nuts to the manufacturers correct torque specification.

Step 11: Repeat for Other Side

Repeat the same process on the opposite side of the vehicle to complete the full caliper paint job.

Tip: Allow at least 24 hours before aggressive driving to ensure full curing of the paint system.