Calipher painting Pros and Cons

[Zroiron]

i am considering having the Caliphers on our X painted Tesla Red since only Performance X's have the option to do so when you configure. I didn't want the Performance version, however, I like the look of red caliphers. Are there any disadvantages to painting versus not painting them?

 

[MonsterCarter]

I'm thinking about painting my calipers as well, hoping we can obtain some insight here.

Assuming there are no cons, this place is pretty reputable place in Vegas.

Custom Calipers and Wheels - Las Vegas, NV

 

[goneskiian]

First, it's a caliper. No "h" in that word.

How Brake Calipers Work

Second, the caliper on your X will be painted black. So you're really asking if there's a benefit to painting it red vs. black, and the answer is, only if you like to see them glistening red behind your wheels.

 

[Zroiron]

First, it's a caliper. No "h" in that word.

How Brake Calipers Work

Second, the caliper on your X will be painted black. So you're really asking if there's a benefit to painting it red vs. black, and the answer is, only if you like to see them glistening red behind your wheels.

Thank you for the spelling correction. I know how they work, but thank you again!

 

[Drivin]

Not worth it.
The extra weight will reduce the range of the car.
May also negatively impact the coefficient of drag.

 

[aesculus]

Not worth it.
The extra weight will reduce the range of the car.
May also negatively impact the coefficient of drag.

But doesn't red paint travel faster than blue paint?

 

[goneskiian]

Thank you for the spelling correction. I know how they work, but thank you again!

You're welcome. Sorry for the "how it works" link. That was more for spelling confirmation than anything else.

Not worth it.
The extra weight will reduce the range of the car.
May also negatively impact the coefficient of drag.

Wait. So red paint weighs more than black paint?

 

[MajesticSound]

I did mine and love the look. I used 1/2' brush and a small brush for certain areas. First coat had me wondering if I should have done it but the 2nd coat went on like glass and no brush marks at all. You couldn't tell it wasn't sprayed on. Just be careful on certain areas. Once you mix it you have 3 maybe 3.5 hours to work with it.
http://www.amazon.com/Temperature-L...&qid=1462730339&sr=8-3&keywords=caliper+paint
I also got hi temp decals from this guy g1_vinyldecals on eBay Contact him and he will take care of you.

 

[goneskiian]

You could also get these...

Tesla — Model S Red Brake Calipers Set

Yes. I know Tesla will tell you these aren't compatible with the X so we need proof either way. Maybe a part number comparison for the S vs. X calipers. Or a side by side comparison. I don't know why they'd be different.

Or for a cheaper option...

MGP Caliper Covers for Tesla Model S

Cheers!

 

[irishstoutaz]

I have bought custom Mats from Jerry at ForMyTesla.com along with a few other items and know he has a caliper paint kit that you may consider... Caliper Paint Kit – For My Tesla

 

[flyhigh123]

i would powder coat them over painting if you really want to do it right...

 

[CTemp222]

Got mine painted and insurance went up 42%

 

[goneskiian]

Got mine painted and insurance went up 42%

Yes, but so did your horsepower!

 

[paintpolisher]

Friend who traded in his S85 with red painted calipers was charged $2000 by Tesla when he traded in for a new 90D

 

[goneskiian]

Friend who traded in his S85 with red painted calipers was charged $2000 by Tesla when he traded in for a new 90D

Why?

 

[Zroiron]

First, it's a caliper. No "h" in that word.

How Brake Calipers Work

Second, the caliper on your X will be painted black. So you're really asking if there's a benefit to painting it red vs. black, and the answer is, only if you like to see them glistening red behind your wheels.

My Caliphers are gray.

 

[eyespii]

Yes, but so did your horsepower!

Don't you mean brake horsepower?

 

[Blu Zap]

@MajesticSound the painted calipers look great with the Tesla decal. Although the EVannex covers are a cleaner install, but not the Tesla logo like yours.

 

[FlatSix911]

Well done!

 

[goneskiian]

My Caliphers are gray.

Sorry. I don't know what a califer is.

Well, there you go. Sorry. I was going by what they look to be in the design studio ( I should know better!) and what I thought I saw on a couple X's waiting for delivery at the local Service Center.

Nothing has changed though. Painting them red is purely aesthetic and will not impede their function. Which is why you said you wanted to do it in the first place so have at it. As others have pointed out, powder coating is likely more durable but a simple caliper paint kit will work too.