Brake caliper paint

[Zebster]

Not looking for perfection, I just want to replace the current tatty appearance with something a bit smarter.

I've decided to go for this Halfords one, especially as the colour looks to be about what I wanted: https://www.halfords.com/motoring/pa...int-blue-250ml

Thanks to all!

[XC90Mk1]

Originally Posted by Laird Scooby

That too but often it's cheaper to use VHT primer and your choice (rather than the limited, expensive range of colours offered in brake caliper paint) of colour.

A lot of it is down to how quickly and what sort of finish the OP wants. For a perfect (or as near as) finish, remove the calipers, electrolytically de-rust/clean them, rinse, dry, prime with VHT primer, colour coat and high temperature clear lcaquer.
Sandblasting is an alternative to electrolytic de-rusting/cleaning but is obviously more aggressive because of the blast medium.

Also electroplating is another alternative to paint, bright zinc plating (BZP) can give a near-chrome like finish or with a passivate (yellow, blue or clear) can give a light gold, "steel blue/grey" or slightly dull chrome effect respectively.

Both types of finish will give good anti-corrosion properties and look good for several years to come.

If the OP just wants to make them look reasonably good fairly quickly, a rotary wire brush in the drill followed by either VHT primer and their colour choice of paint or brake caliper paint squirted on will give instant gratification, more or less. The other methods take longer but will look better (especially in any nooks and crannies), last longer and will give improved corrosion protection.

It's all down to personal choice at the end of it all.

It cost me 10 pounds from halfords and did my front and rear callipers on the xc90 and front callipers and rear drums on 2014 focus.

20k later still like new.

[Zebster]

I eventually got around to painting my front calipers (and caliper carrier brackets) while replacing the front pads and discs. The carrier brackets have to be removed from the car anyway when replacing the discs, and the unbolted calipers can be easily supported as required for painting without disturbing the hydraulic connection.

I applied the recommended Halfords caliper paint using a 1/2" brush, after carefully wire brushing and wiping with a clean rags soaked in meths. No brush marks and I'm very happy with the results... not perfect but more than good enough!