Your caliper covers are more than just a stylish upgrade for your vehicle. They’re also a protective barrier, shielding your brake calipers from dust, debris, and grime.
But to keep them looking sharp and performing well, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential.
Follow these simple yet effective tips to maintain and clean your caliper covers, ensuring they stay in top condition for years.
Let’s go!
Why Maintain Your Caliper Covers?
Before diving into the how-to’s, let’s understand the why. Proper maintenance of custom caliper covers ensures:
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Clean caliper covers keep your wheels looking sharp and polished.
- Durability: Regular care prevents rust, fading, and damage caused by dirt and road contaminants.
- Optimal Functionality: Well-maintained covers ensure no interference with your brake system, keeping your drive safe and smooth.
You're preserving your vehicle's style and performance by dedicating time to maintaining your caliper covers.
Cleaning Your Caliper Covers: Step-by-Step Guide
Caliper covers are exposed to harsh conditions, from brake dust to mud and road salt. Cleaning them regularly will make them shine and extend their lifespan.
1. Gather the Right Tools
Start with the right supplies to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of your caliper covers. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A bucket of warm water with mild car wash soap
- A soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
- Microfiber towels
- A non-abrasive cleaner (designed for painted or metal surfaces)
- Optional: Wheel cleaner for stubborn grime
2. Remove the Wheels for Easy Access
While it’s not strictly necessary, removing the wheels gives you better access to your caliper covers.
This makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas and inspect the covers for damage. If you prefer not to remove the wheels, you can still clean the covers by turning the steering wheel to expose them.
3. Rinse to Remove Loose Dirt
Begin by rinsing the caliper covers with water to wash away these elements:
- loose dirt,
- dust,
- and debris.
This prevents scratching during scrubbing.
4. Scrub Gently
Dip your soft-bristled brush or toothbrush into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the caliper covers.
Focus on removing built-up grime, especially around the edges and logos. Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the finish.
For particularly stubborn spots, apply a non-abrasive cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Once you’ve removed all dirt, rinse the caliper covers thoroughly with clean water. Ensure no soap residue remains, as it could leave streaks or dull the finish.
6. Dry with a Microfiber Towel
Use a microfiber towel to dry the caliper covers gently. Microfiber is ideal because it’s soft and won’t scratch the surface.
Drying the covers prevents water spots and keeps them looking polished.
7. Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, check for any signs of damage, such as:
- chips,
- scratches,
- or loose fittings.
Addressing issues early can prevent further wear and tear.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Caliper Covers
Beyond regular cleaning, a few maintenance practices can help keep your caliper covers in excellent shape.
1. Protect Against Harsh Conditions
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using cleaners with harsh chemicals, as these can strip the finish or cause discoloration.
- Rinse After Driving in Salt or Mud: If you’ve been driving on salted roads or muddy terrain, rinse your caliper covers promptly to prevent corrosive damage.
2. Check Fitment Regularly
Over time, vibrations and regular use can loosen caliper covers. Periodically check their fitment to ensure they’re secure. Loose covers can cause rattling noises or interfere with brake performance.
3. Reapply Protective Coatings
Consider applying a protective wax or sealant designed for metal or painted surfaces for added durability and shine. This will protect against dirt, grime, and UV rays.
4. Monitor for Wear and Tear
Inspect your caliper covers periodically for signs of fading, peeling, or cracking. If the covers show significant wear, it might be time to replace them to maintain your vehicle’s appearance and safety.
Bonus Tips for Maximum Shine
If you want your caliper covers to stand out even more, follow these additional tips:
- Polish After Cleaning: Use a non-abrasive polish to enhance the shine and give your covers a like-new appearance.
- Match Wheel Cleaning: Clean your wheels and caliper covers together for a cohesive, polished look. Dirty wheels can overshadow your sparkling caliper covers.
- Use High-Quality Covers: Investing in durable, high-quality caliper covers reduces the need for frequent maintenance and ensures they stay looking great longer.
How Often Should You Clean Caliper Covers?
The frequency of cleaning depends on your driving conditions. For daily drivers, cleaning every 1-2 months is usually sufficient.
If you frequently drive in harsh conditions, such as muddy or snowy roads, clean the covers more often to prevent damage.
Ready to Enjoy Your Caliper Covers?
Maintaining and cleaning your caliper covers isn’t just about keeping your vehicle looking sharp but protecting your investment.
With regular care, you can extend the life of your caliper covers, enhance your car’s appearance, and ensure optimal performance on the road.
Ready to take your caliper cover care to the next level? Browse our selection of durable, easy-to-maintain custom caliper covers and enjoy a ride that looks as smooth as it feels!
Why LepreconPlus?
- Aerospace-grade aluminum ensures long-term protection and reliability.
- Over a decade of experience in custom automotive solutions, servicing over 100,000 clients.
- A wide range of wheel accessories available to customize and protect your vehicle.
- Quick and straightforward installation process, typically completed within an hour.
- Caliper covers available in various colors to suit your vehicle's look and style.
- Products are tested for safety and durability, ensuring you receive top-notch quality and performance for your investment.
- Exceptional attention to detail, as shown in countless 5-star reviews.