Will Caliper Paint Fade?
2 Answers
Under normal circumstances, it will not fade, and there is not much difference from high-temperature paint. Additional information: Introduction to car caliper painting is as follows: If the caliper is only painted to change its color: it will generally pass inspection, as it does not affect the braking system itself; it merely involves spraying a layer of high-temperature paint on the surface. Of course, this still depends on the local annual inspection standards, which may be stricter. It is best to inquire at the vehicle management office for clarification: However, if the entire caliper is replaced, it is necessary to register the change with the vehicle management office; otherwise, it will definitely fail the annual inspection.
I've tried caliper painting myself a few times. At first, to save effort, I used cheap regular paint, but the color faded within a couple of months, especially since the heat from braking accelerated the peeling. The reasons are simple: the surface wasn't thoroughly cleaned of oil stains and dust, and the paint couldn't withstand high temperatures (regular paint can handle up to 200°C, while braking can exceed 400°C). For DIY projects, I recommend thoroughly sanding to remove rust, using specialized high-temperature automotive paint (epoxy-based or high-temperature paint works better), and applying multiple thin coats rather than one thick layer. Additionally, areas with frequent heavy braking tend to fade first, so check during maintenance. Fading isn't just unsightly—peeling paint chips can get stuck in the wheels, so safety-wise, it's better to consider professional painting for peace of mind. Actually, with proper technique and the right paint, it can last for years, so don't give up easily—it's quite rewarding.
