Installing caliper covers is not a complicated process. Because you can do it yourself [DIY]. Especially if you have already learnt what a caliper is.
By looking at this straight forward step by step article, you will learn everything that needs to be done.
The cost of a brake caliper cover kit will depend on a number of things. For example;
- The type of vehicle.
- Secondly, the components of the caliper cover kit.
- Labor cost.
- The size.
You will need to purchase caliper covers for your exact vehicle. Otherwise they may not fit. Though the process of installation is the same despite the vehicle.
The process of installing caliper covers.
Occasions under which you install caliper covers may include when you replace calipers like when your caliper gets stuck. Alternatively, when you install aftermarket wheels and you would like to complete the look.
Tools for installing caliper covers.
You will need the following tools in order to make a successful installation of the caliper covers.
- Car Jack.
- .013 Feeler gauge.
- Jack stand.
- 3/8 wrench.
Caliper cover installation instructions.
First of all, if you are making both the front and rear caliper cover installation, keep steel clips for both separately.
Secondly, measure the distance between the wheel and the brake caliper. Ensure that the distance is 1/8 of an inch.
Thirdly, If the brake pads have retainer wires, ensure that you straighten then using a pair of pliers before installing the covers.
Caliper covers have two varying options, some have a stud type clip while others don’t.
- Place the caliper cover over the brake caliper. Ensure that you center the cover across the front.
- Further, ensure that the caliper cover bridge is against the brake caliper bracket.
- Place the stainless steel clips over the bridges and the caliper bracket.
- Ensure that the steel clips are around the threaded studs to fasten the cover.
- Further, ensure that they are securely fitting to counter against bumpy roads and brake pad vibrations.
- At this point we are going to install the locknuts onto the threaded studs. This moves ensures that the clip is secured to the bridge. Use a 3/8-inch wrench.
- Next, we will need to measure the distance between the clip and brake rotor.
- You may use a feeler gauge or a business card. Ensure that the measurement is at least .013 inch (.32 mm).
- The business card test involves sliding it in and out without it sticking.
- Finally, reinstall the wheel and tighten the nuts.
- Make the nuts as tight as the manufacturer recommends.
YouTube Video Instructions.
How do I remove the old caliper covers?
- Raise your vehicle in order to place jack stands underneath. Ensure that the wheel you’re going to remove is off the ground. Pace the jack stand below the vehicle body frame so that the vehicle doesn’t drop.
- Remove the wheel for which you’re about to replace the caliper covers. Use a tire on or a ratchet for removing the lug nuts.
- Thirdly, while still using the ratchet, remove the bolts that are behind the caliper. This will loosen the caliper from the brake rotor.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the caliper off the brake pads. The screwdriver will create a divide between the calipers. Pull it apart.
- This wont remove it completely because there will be a brake hose that connects it to the master cylinder. Leave it attached like that.
- Afterwards, remove the brake pads from the caliper bracket. You will see the brake pads under the center of the caliper.
- Inspect the brake pads for level of wear. During installation, apply brake pad grease carefully.
- Remove the bolts keeping the brake caliper bracket intact. You will find these on the top and bottom rear side of the caliper bracket.
- Then lift the caliper bracket off the rotors.