The vibrant red brake calipers often seen on Tesla Performance models are a striking visual upgrade that many owners desire. If you're looking to achieve this look for your non-Performance Tesla, you have a few primary options: painting your existing calipers or installing caliper covers. Both methods offer a way to get that sporty aesthetic, but they differ significantly in terms of effort, cost, and permanence.
Ready to give your Tesla that aggressive, performance-inspired edge? Let's dive into how you can achieve those coveted red calipers!
Method 1: Painting Your Calipers for a Permanent & Professional Finish
Painting your brake calipers yourself can be a rewarding DIY project, offering a truly custom and durable finish. However, it requires patience and attention to detail.
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| How To Get Red Calipers Tesla |
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Supplies ️
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Before you begin, imagine the satisfaction of seeing your Tesla with sleek, custom red calipers! To make that vision a reality, gather everything you'll need. This is crucial for a smooth process.
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High-Temperature Brake Caliper Paint Kit (Red): Look for epoxy-based kits designed for automotive brakes. Brands like G2, Dupli-Color, or VHT are popular choices. Ensure you have enough for all four calipers (some kits are designed for two, so you might need two kits).
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Brake Cleaner/Degreaser: Crucial for proper adhesion.
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Wire Brush & Scrub Brush/Scotch-Brite Pad: For thorough cleaning.
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Automotive Masking Tape & Plastic Sheeting/Newspaper: To protect surrounding components.
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Jack & Jack Stands: Absolutely essential for safety! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
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Lug Wrench or Impact Wrench & Sockets: To remove wheels.
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Torque Wrench: Vital for correctly re-torquing lug nuts.
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Gloves & Safety Glasses: For personal protection.
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Optional: Small brushes for detailed application, Tesla decal stickers (high-temp vinyl).
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Step 2: Prepare Your Tesla for the Transformation
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Safety first! This step ensures you can work on your calipers securely and prevent damage to your car.
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Park on a Level Surface: Engage the parking brake.
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Loosen Lug Nuts: Slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheels you plan to work on first while the car is still on the ground. This makes removal easier once it's jacked up.
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Jack Up the Car: Using your jack and jack stands, safely lift one corner of the car (or the entire side if you have enough equipment). Refer to your Tesla's owner's manual for proper jack points.
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Remove Wheels: Fully remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel. Store it safely away from your workspace.
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Step 3: Clean Those Calipers Thoroughly ✨
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This is arguably the most important step for a long-lasting paint job. Any grease, grime, or rust will prevent the paint from adhering properly.
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Initial Scrub: Using a wire brush and a scrub brush with some water (and possibly dish soap for initial heavy grime), remove loose dirt, brake dust, and rust.
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Degrease Time: Liberally spray the entire caliper with brake cleaner/degreaser. Use your brushes to agitate and clean every crevice. Wipe away residue with a clean cloth. Repeat this process until the caliper is spotless and no grease or dust remains. The cleaner the surface, the better the paint will adhere and last. Allow it to dry completely.
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Consider Caliper Removal (Optional but Recommended): For the absolute best results and full coverage, removing the calipers from the braking system is ideal. This allows for easier access to all surfaces and prevents overspray. However, this is a more advanced procedure that involves disconnecting brake lines and bleeding the brakes afterward, which should ideally be done by a professional or someone with mechanical experience. For a DIY job without removing calipers, focus on meticulous masking.
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Step 4: Masking for Precision
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
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You don't want red paint on your rotors, brake lines, or suspension components! This is where precision pays off.
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Protect Surrounding Areas: Carefully mask off all areas you don't want painted. This includes:
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Brake Rotors: Cover the entire rotor surface, especially the braking surface.
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Brake Lines & Sensors: Wrap these securely with tape.
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Suspension Components: Cover any parts that are close to the caliper.
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Wheel Well: Use plastic sheeting or newspaper to protect the inside of the wheel well from overspray, especially if you're spraying.
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Step 5: Apply the Paint – Layer by Layer
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Patience is key here. Don't rush the painting process; multiple thin coats are always better than one thick, gloopy coat.
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Mix the Paint: Follow the instructions on your specific caliper paint kit. Many kits are two-part epoxy paints that require mixing just before application.
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First Thin Coat: Apply a very thin, even coat of paint to the caliper. Don't worry about full coverage at this stage. Think of it as a primer coat.
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Drying Time: Allow the first coat to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. This is critical for proper adhesion and a smooth finish.
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Subsequent Coats: Apply 2-3 more thin coats, allowing adequate drying time between each. Aim for even coverage and a vibrant red.
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Tesla Decals (Optional): If you're adding Tesla decals, apply them after the final paint coat has dried but before it's fully cured (check your kit's instructions for the ideal window). Some kits recommend a clear coat over the decals for added durability.
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Clear Coat (If Applicable): If your kit includes a clear coat or recommends one, apply it according to the instructions for added shine and protection.
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Step 6: The Curing Process & Reassembly ⏱️
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You're almost there! Proper curing ensures the paint hardens and lasts.
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Full Curing: Allow the calipers to cure for the recommended time before reassembling the wheels. This can vary from a few hours to 24 hours or more, depending on the paint. Avoid driving the car until the paint is fully cured.
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Remove Masking: Carefully remove all masking tape and plastic sheeting.
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Reinstall Wheels: Mount the wheels back onto the hubs.
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Hand-Tighten Lug Nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts initially.
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Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car back onto the ground.
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Torque Lug Nuts: Using your torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting. This is crucial for safety and preventing wheel detachment. Do not overtighten.
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Method 2: Installing Caliper Covers for a Quick & Easy Upgrade
Caliper covers offer a less invasive and often quicker alternative to painting, providing the red caliper look without the mess or permanence of paint.
Step 1: Research and Purchase Caliper Covers
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The market offers a wide variety of caliper covers. Do your homework to ensure you get a quality product that fits your specific Tesla model and year.
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Compatibility: Ensure the caliper covers are specifically designed for your Tesla Model (e.g., Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X) and year. Some covers may not fit newer or older models, or specific wheel sizes.
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Material: Look for covers made from durable, heat-resistant materials like aluminum alloy.
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Attachment Method: Most covers use a clip-on or bolt-on mechanism. Understand how they attach.
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Aesthetics: Choose the red shade you prefer and whether you want "TESLA" or other branding on them.
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Step 2: Prepare Your Tesla (Similar to Painting)
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The initial preparation steps are similar to painting, as you'll still need to access the calipers.
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Park on a Level Surface: Engage the parking brake.
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Loosen Lug Nuts: Slightly loosen the lug nuts.
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Jack Up the Car: Safely lift one corner or side of your Tesla using a jack and jack stands.
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Remove Wheels: Take off the wheels.
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Tip: Break long posts into short reading sessions.
Step 3: Clean Your Calipers (Still Important!)
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Even though you're covering them, it's a good idea to clean your calipers. This prevents trapped dirt and can help with heat dissipation.
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Remove Loose Debris: Use a brush to remove any loose brake dust or dirt from your existing calipers.
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Wipe Down: Give them a quick wipe with a damp cloth or a small amount of brake cleaner to ensure they're reasonably clean.
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Step 4: Install the Caliper Covers
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This is generally the most straightforward part of the process.
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Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer's installation instructions for your specific caliper covers.
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Clip-on/Bolt-on: Most covers will either clip directly onto your existing calipers or bolt onto specific points. Ensure they are securely fastened and there's no movement.
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Check Clearance: Once installed, gently spin the wheel hub (if possible) to ensure the cover doesn't rub against any part of the wheel or suspension. Double-check clearance once the wheel is back on.
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Step 5: Reassembly & Final Check ✅
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Almost done! Just like with painting, proper reassembly is vital.
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Reinstall Wheels: Mount the wheels back onto the hubs.
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Hand-Tighten Lug Nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
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Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car.
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Torque Lug Nuts: Using your torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting.
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Road Test: Take your Tesla for a short, gentle drive to ensure everything feels normal and there are no unusual noises from the wheels.
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Caliper Painting vs. Caliper Covers: Which is Right for You?
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to choose the right color red for my Tesla calipers?
Answer: The "right" red often depends on your Tesla's body color. Many aim for a bright, vibrant red similar to the Tesla Performance models. You can compare swatches online or in person to find one that complements your car.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
How to ensure the paint lasts on my Tesla calipers?
Answer: Thorough cleaning and proper surface preparation are the most crucial steps. Using a high-quality, high-temperature specific caliper paint and applying multiple thin coats with adequate drying time will ensure longevity.
How to clean my Tesla calipers before painting?
Answer: Use a wire brush and a degreaser/brake cleaner to remove all brake dust, grime, and rust. Repeat the cleaning process until the calipers are visibly spotless, as any residue will prevent proper paint adhesion.
How to know if caliper covers will fit my Tesla?
Answer: Always check the product description and compatibility notes from the manufacturer or seller. They will specify which Tesla models, years, and wheel sizes the covers are designed for.
How to prevent overspray when painting Tesla calipers?
Answer: Meticulous masking is key. Use automotive-grade masking tape to precisely cover all components you don't want painted, and use plastic sheeting or newspaper to protect the wheel well and vehicle body.
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
How to apply Tesla decals to painted calipers?
Answer: Apply decals after the paint has dried but before it's fully cured. Carefully place the decal, smooth out any bubbles, and consider a clear coat over it if your paint kit allows, to seal and protect it.
How to maintain my red Tesla calipers after painting/covering?
Answer: Clean them regularly with mild car soap and water to prevent brake dust buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes that could damage the finish.
How to tell the difference between painted calipers and caliper covers?
Answer: Painted calipers will look like a seamless part of the brake system, with the paint directly on the caliper material. Caliper covers are typically separate pieces that are bolted or clipped over the existing calipers, often appearing slightly bulkier or having visible seams.
How to get professional results when painting calipers at home?
Answer: Patience, thorough preparation, and multiple thin coats are the secrets. Don't rush, ensure the surface is perfectly clean, and allow ample drying time between coats. Investing in quality materials also helps.
How to remove caliper covers if I change my mind?
Answer: Caliper covers are generally designed to be easily removable. Simply reverse the installation process, unbolting or unclipping them from your existing calipers. This makes them a great option for those who like to change up their car's look periodically.
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