Does changing the color of car calipers require registration?
2 Answers
Simply changing the color of the calipers does not require registration, but if the entire component is replaced, registration is necessary. To apply for a component change, the following documents must be submitted: "Motor Vehicle Modification Registration Application Form," identification and copies of the vehicle owner and agent, the vehicle registration certificate, the vehicle license, and payment of all outstanding fines. Determining whether color modification requires registration: If the area of the vehicle body color change does not exceed 30%, vehicle modification registration is not required. If the color change exceeds 30%, registration with the vehicle management office is mandatory. Precautions for painting car calipers: The paint used must be heat-resistant. There are limited cleaning methods, as many caliper surfaces are not smooth. It is best to clean thoroughly before painting, but the durability will not be long due to lack of protection. After painting, minor impacts from stones, gravel, or brake dust are inevitable. The brake booster and master cylinder are connected in series. Typically, the booster is a large black cylindrical or conical container, which also functions as a piston mechanism. Inside, a diaphragm divides the booster into two chambers: one connected to the engine intake pipe and the other open to the atmosphere. Since the engine creates a vacuum while operating, it generates a significant pressure difference across the diaphragm. This pressure difference, combined with the driver's applied force, presses against the master cylinder to produce strong braking power. Additionally, according to Article 10 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," registered motor vehicles must apply for modification registration under the following circumstances: Change of body color. Replacement of the engine. Replacement of the body or frame. Replacement of the entire vehicle due to quality issues. Change of usage nature, such as converting a commercial vehicle to a private vehicle or vice versa. Change of the vehicle owner's residence outside or within the jurisdiction of the vehicle management office. Furthermore, according to Article 15 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and engineering rescue vehicles must display designated markings and install alarms and warning lights as required. Other motor vehicles are prohibited from using similar markings, alarms, or warning lights reserved for these special vehicles.
A while ago, I painted my calipers red myself, which was quite fun. After the modification, the car drives fine. In China, such changes usually don’t require registration, as regulations only mandate reporting for major modifications like a full body color change or engine alterations. Calipers are just part of the braking system, and a color change doesn’t affect safety performance. I used high-temperature spray paint for a DIY job—bought a can and some sandpaper, cleaned everything thoroughly, and applied several coats. It took half a day to finish. Here’s a tip: choose high-quality paint to avoid fading or fire risks due to heat. Just make sure to regularly check that the brakes function normally. The registration process is a hassle and totally unnecessary for this—local traffic authorities won’t bother with such minor details. Just don’t tamper with the brake discs, and always prioritize safety.
