What are brake caliper covers?

Brake Caliper Covers: Are They Just for Show?

So, you’re thinking about brake caliper covers, huh? They’re those shiny things you see peeking out from behind some car wheels, and they’re supposed to make your brakes look…well, cooler. But are they all show and no go? Let’s dig in.

What Are These Things, Anyway?

Basically, brake caliper covers are exactly what they sound like: covers that go over your existing brake calipers. Think of them as snap-on hubcaps, but for your brakes. They’re usually attached with clips, brackets, or sometimes even bolts, and the idea is that you can install them yourself without having to mess with the actual braking system. The real draw? They come in a wild array of colors, finishes, and designs, so you can really personalize the look of your ride. Some even sport logos or custom engravings – fancy!

All About That Aesthetic

Let’s be honest: the main reason people slap these things on their cars is for looks. Stock brake calipers can be, well, kinda ugly. They’re often dull, unfinished, and prone to rust and corrosion. Caliper covers are a quick and dirty way to hide all that and add a bit of visual pizzazz.

• Color Me Impressed: You can find these covers in just about any color you can imagine. Want to go full-on race car with bright red or yellow? Go for it. Prefer something more subtle like black or silver? No problem. And the finishes range from super glossy to a more subdued matte. Some even try to mimic the look of carbon fiber – talk about trying to look the part!
• Logos and Designs Galore: Many covers feature stylized designs or even the logos of big-name brake companies like Brembo. It’s a way to give the impression that you’ve got some serious stopping power under those wheels, even if you don’t. Some companies even offer custom engraving, so you can add your name, your car’s name, or whatever else strikes your fancy.
• Wheel Appeal: If you’re upgrading to larger rims and lower profile tires, you’re going to expose more of your brakes.

What Are They Made Of?

The material matters when it comes to caliper covers. You’ve got a few options, each with its own pros and cons:

• Aluminum: This is a popular choice because it’s tough, handles heat well, and doesn’t weigh much. Aluminum covers tend to be pricier, but they’ll probably last longer and perform better.
• Plastic (ABS): A more budget-friendly option. ABS plastic is still pretty durable and resists corrosion, but it might not be as good at dissipating heat as aluminum.
• Fiberglass: For optimal durability, you can go with Premium Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) fiberglass. The paint and clear coat of this caliper accessory kit stand well against heat and won’t chip or fade.
• Vinyl: If you’re looking for a balance between price and looks, vinyl caliper covers can be a good compromise.

No matter what they’re made of, good caliper covers should have some kind of ventilation to let heat escape. They should also fit snugly and securely without getting in the way of the brake pads, rotors, or wheels.

How Do You Put Them On?

One of the best things about caliper covers is that they’re usually pretty easy to install. Most of the time, you can do it yourself in your garage with just a few basic tools. Here’s the gist of it:

It’s usually a pretty straightforward process, but make sure you read the instructions carefully. You want to make sure those covers are on tight and aren’t going to cause any problems.

Are They Safe?

Okay, here’s where things get a little tricky. The safety of caliper covers is a hot topic. If they’re installed correctly and used on the right cars, they can be safe. But there are definitely some potential downsides to keep in mind:

• Heat Soak: If the covers don’t breathe well, they can trap heat, which can make your brakes less effective and even damage them.
• Getting in the Way: If they’re not installed properly or don’t fit right, they could interfere with the caliper, rotor, or wheel, which could lead to serious brake problems.
• Not Enough Room: Caliper covers add bulk, which means there’s less space between the caliper and the wheel. This could be an issue if you don’t have a lot of clearance to begin with.

To stay safe, stick with high-quality covers that are made specifically for your car. Double-check the fit before and after you install them. And if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, get a professional to do it for you. Trust me, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your brakes.

Do They Actually Do Anything?

Let’s be clear: caliper covers are mostly about looks. They’re not going to magically improve your braking performance. In fact, they could even make things worse if they cause heat buildup or interfere with the braking system.

Some manufacturers claim their covers can help dissipate heat or reduce brake dust. While there might be a grain of truth to that, the performance benefits are probably pretty minimal. Don’t expect to be stopping on a dime just because you slapped on some caliper covers.

Other Options to Consider

If you want to spruce up your calipers without the potential risks of covers, here are a few other ideas:

• Paint ‘Em: Painting your calipers is a classic way to customize them. It takes more work, but you can choose from a wider range of colors and get a more permanent finish.
• Go Big or Go Home: If you really want to upgrade your brakes, consider a performance caliper upgrade. It’s the most expensive option, but you’ll get a serious boost in both looks and performance.

The Bottom Line

Brake caliper covers can be a fun and relatively cheap way to add some flair to your car’s wheels. But it’s important to do your homework and weigh the pros and cons before you take the plunge. Choose quality covers that are designed for your car, and make sure they’re installed correctly. And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult with a mechanic. After all, your brakes are kind of important!