Can You Wrap Brake Calipers in Any Vinyl Wrap?

Customizing your car is an exciting way to make it your own. Adding visual flair with custom vinyl wraps has become an increasingly popular modification. But what about wrapping components like your brake calipers? Many people wonder – can I use any vinyl wrap on my brake calipers?

Here’s a quick answer: You cannot wrap brake calipers in just any vinyl wrap. Due to the extreme heat calipers generate, they require special high heat-resistant vinyl wraps engineered to withstand temperatures exceeding 500°F. Standard automotive wrap vinyl is only rated to about 200°F and will rapidly deteriorate on calipers. Use brands like 3M and VViViD that make specific vinyl films rated for brake caliper wrapping.

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Not All Vinyls Are Created Equal

Brake calipers generate extremely high levels of heat during braking. This heat can readily surpass 500°F at the caliper surface. Considering most standard vinyl wraps are only rated up to around 200°F, you can see the problem. Exposing regular vinyl to the intense caliper temperatures will cause rapid deterioration of the material. It will melt, bubble, peel away, or lose adhesion.

Vinyl designed for general automotive wraps is not engineered to withstand such punishing conditions. So wrapping brake components requires special high heat vinyl wraps specifically created to resist high temperatures.

Vinyl Wrap Type	Max Temperature Rating	Suitable for Calipers?
Standard automotive vinyl wrap	Around 200°F	No
Specialized high heat caliper wrap	500°F+	Yes

Brake Caliper Wrap Qualities

Quality brake caliper wraps are crafted with robust materials and adhesives to maintain their integrity and bond in the grueling caliper environment. Key factors that make caliper wraps effective include:

High heat tolerance – Can resist temperatures exceeding 500°F without damage.

Chemical resistance – Stands up to brake fluids without deteriorating.
Strong adhesion – Bonds tightly to resist peeling or lifting.
Abrasion/impact resistance – Withstands debris, vibrations, and driving conditions.

UV/weathering resistance – Won’t fade or crack from sun exposure.

Reputable manufacturers specially engineer their caliper wrap vinyls to exhibit these traits. This gives the wraps longevity and prevents premature failure.

Trusted Caliper Wrap Brands

Industry leaders have paved the way in engineering exceptional caliper wraps. Here are some top manufacturers to look for:

3M – Their 1080 Series wraps are designed for high heat and trusted by professionals. Offer excellent resistance and adhesion.
VViViD – VViViD Caliper wraps boast ratings over 500°F. Specialized high-temp acrylic adhesive.
Avery Dennison – Supreme WrappingTM Film line includes caliper-rated options. Exceptional quality and performance.

K Plastics – Offer a wide range of caliper wrap kits for all needs and budgets. Great for DIY installs.

These brands invest heavily in technical innovation to create products that thrive under extremes. Their caliper wrap materials are rigorously tested to validate their durability.

Proper Installation Matters

Vinyl wrapping your car can transform its look, but it requires careful technique for professional results. Follow these key steps when installing vinyl wrap on your vehicle.

Clean the Surface – Thoroughly wash, degrease, and dry the area to remove dirt, wax, oil and other contaminants. This allows the vinyl to adhere properly.
Inspect the Surface – Look for any dents, rust, or imperfections that may show through the wrap. Fill or smooth as needed.
Cut the Vinyl – Use a sharp knife and ruler to cut the vinyl to the appropriate size and shape, leaving a few extra inches for wrapping edges.

Apply Primer/Adhesive Promoter – Lightly spray primer on the area to improve vinyl adhesion, especially on curved or irregular surfaces.
Remove Backing – Slowly peel away the backing from the vinyl wrap while carefully handling the material.
Position the Vinyl – Line up the vinyl where you want it applied and begin attaching it with light pressure.

Use a Squeegee – Gradually squeegee the vinyl onto the surface from center outward to remove air pockets and ensure a tight bond.
Heat Vinyl – Use a professional heat gun to heat the vinyl as you install it which makes the material more pliable.
Trim Excess – Carefully trim off any overlapping vinyl using an extremely sharp blade.

Inspect and Reapply – Look for any remaining bubbles or lifted edges and re-squeegee or apply heat as needed.

Maintaining Your Caliper Wraps

Once installed, caliper wraps require minimal maintenance. However, here are some tips for keeping them looking their best:

Hand wash wraps when cleaning your wheels to avoid damaging high-pressure spray

Avoid harsh wheel cleaners which can degrade the vinyl over time
Check occasionally for any lifted edges and re-apply as needed
Replace wraps once they become excessively worn or damaged

Re-wrap every 2-3 years as the adhesives can weaken over time

With proper care, quality caliper wraps will enhance your wheels for years before needing replacement.

FAQs About Caliper Wraps

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about wrapping brake calipers:

Does the wrap affect brake performance?

No, caliper wraps are purely cosmetic and do not interfere with braking. The vinyl is very thin and flexible.

Can I wrap my calipers myself?

It’s possible but quite difficult without professional wrapping experience. Hiring a pro installer is recommended for most people.

How long do the wraps last?

Around 2-3 years on average. Higher quality wraps may last 5+ years. Proper maintenance and installation will maximize longevity.

Will the wrap damage my calipers?

Quality wraps will not cause damage if installed correctly. Only use wraps designed specifically for brake calipers.

Is it illegal to have colored calipers?

In most areas, colored calipers are legal as long as they don’t emit any kind of flashing or blinking lights. Always check local regulations.

Wrap Up on Wrapping Calipers

Upgrading your brake calipers with colorful wraps can really make your wheels pop. But it’s critical to ONLY use vinyls engineered specifically to withstand the demands of brake heat and fluid exposure. Trust in top brands that manufacture caliper wraps tested and proven at extreme temperatures.

With the right materials, professional installation, and proper maintenance, you’ll be able to enjoy custom, vibrant calipers that stand out from the crowd!