Want to add a pop of personality to your 2020 GLE? Painting your brake calipers is a surprisingly effective way to enhance its overall aesthetic appeal. It's a relatively inexpensive DIY project that can make a noticeable difference, giving your vehicle a sportier and more customized look.

Why Paint Your Brake Calipers? Is It Worth the Effort?

Let's be honest, brake calipers aren't exactly designed to be visually stunning. They're functional components, often hidden behind your wheels, and typically come in a drab, unfinished metal color. Painting them offers several advantages:

  • Improved Aesthetics: This is the primary reason for most people. Painted calipers, especially in a vibrant color like red, yellow, or blue, can dramatically improve the appearance of your GLE, making it look more aggressive and high-performance. Imagine your sleek SUV rolling down the street with those bright calipers peeking out – instantly elevated!

  • Protection from Corrosion: Quality caliper paint provides a protective layer against rust and corrosion. Brake calipers are exposed to harsh conditions, including road salt, water, and brake dust. Painting them helps prolong their lifespan and maintain their functionality.

  • Enhanced Resale Value (Maybe): While not a guaranteed return on investment, well-executed caliper painting can subtly increase the perceived value of your vehicle. It shows attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining your car's appearance. However, avoid overly flashy or unconventional colors, as these might deter some buyers.

  • Personalization: Painting your calipers allows you to customize your vehicle to reflect your personal style. You can choose a color that complements your GLE's paint job, interior accents, or even your favorite sports team.

However, there are also potential downsides to consider:

  • Time and Effort: Painting calipers properly requires time, patience, and attention to detail. It's not a quick weekend project, especially if you're aiming for a professional-looking finish.

  • Potential for Error: If not done correctly, the paint can chip, peel, or fade, leading to a messy and unprofessional appearance. Proper preparation and application are crucial.

  • Cost of Materials: While not overly expensive, you'll need to purchase the necessary supplies, including caliper paint, cleaner, brushes, masking tape, and potentially a jack and stands.

  • Voiding Warranty (Potentially): While unlikely, modifying your brake system in any way could potentially void your warranty on related components. Check your warranty documentation or consult with your Mercedes-Benz dealer before proceeding.

What You'll Need: Gathering Your Supplies

Before you even think about picking up a brush, you need to assemble the right tools and materials. This is a crucial step in ensuring a successful and long-lasting paint job. Here's a comprehensive checklist:

  • Caliper Paint: This is the most important item on the list. Do NOT use regular automotive paint. Caliper paint is specifically formulated to withstand the high temperatures generated by your brakes. Look for high-temperature enamel or epoxy-based paints designed for brake calipers. Popular brands include G2 Brake Caliper Paint, Dupli-Color Caliper Paint, and POR-15 Caliper Painting Kit. Choose a color that you love and that complements your GLE's overall aesthetic.

  • Brake Cleaner: This is essential for removing brake dust, grease, and other contaminants from the calipers. Use a dedicated brake cleaner spray for optimal results.

  • Wire Brush (or Drill with Wire Brush Attachment): You'll need a wire brush to thoroughly clean and scuff the calipers, creating a surface that the paint can adhere to. A drill with a wire brush attachment can significantly speed up this process.

  • Masking Tape: High-quality masking tape is crucial for protecting surrounding areas from overspray. Use a wide tape for larger areas and a narrower tape for more intricate details.

  • Masking Paper or Plastic Sheeting: Use this to cover the brake rotors, suspension components, and other areas that you don't want to get paint on.

  • Sandpaper (Various Grits): Start with a coarser grit (e.g., 180-grit) to remove any existing rust or imperfections, and then move to a finer grit (e.g., 320-grit) to smooth the surface.

  • Gloves: Protect your hands from chemicals and paint.

  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris and chemicals.

  • Jack and Jack Stands: You'll need to safely lift your GLE and remove the wheels. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use sturdy jack stands for support.

  • Wheel Chocks: Secure the wheels that remain on the ground to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

  • Torque Wrench: Essential for properly tightening the lug nuts when reinstalling the wheels.

  • Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning and wiping surfaces.

  • Paint Brushes (Various Sizes): Choose high-quality brushes that won't shed bristles into the paint. Foam brushes can also be useful for applying thin, even coats.

  • Optional: Caliper Decals: If you want to add a touch of authenticity, you can purchase caliper decals with the Mercedes-Benz logo or other designs. Make sure the decals are heat-resistant.

Step-by-Step Guide: Painting Your Brake Calipers Like a Pro

Now that you have all the necessary supplies, it's time to get to work! Follow these steps carefully to achieve a professional-looking finish:

  1. Safety First! Park your GLE on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.

  2. Loosen Lug Nuts: Before lifting the vehicle, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on.

  3. Lift and Secure: Use a jack to lift the vehicle and place jack stands securely under the frame. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

  4. Remove the Wheel: Carefully remove the wheel and set it aside.

  5. Clean the Caliper: This is the most important step. Use a wire brush (or drill with wire brush attachment) to thoroughly clean the caliper, removing all brake dust, rust, and other contaminants. Pay close attention to hard-to-reach areas.

  6. Degrease the Caliper: Spray the caliper liberally with brake cleaner and wipe it clean with a rag. Repeat this process until the rag comes away clean.

  7. Sand the Caliper: Use sandpaper to scuff the surface of the caliper. This will provide a better surface for the paint to adhere to. Start with a coarser grit (e.g., 180-grit) to remove any imperfections, and then move to a finer grit (e.g., 320-grit) to smooth the surface.

  8. Mask the Surrounding Areas: Use masking tape and masking paper or plastic sheeting to protect the brake rotor, suspension components, and other areas from overspray. Be meticulous with your masking to ensure clean lines.

  9. Apply the First Coat of Paint: Apply a thin, even coat of caliper paint. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can lead to runs and drips.

  10. Allow to Dry: Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion of subsequent coats.

  11. Apply Subsequent Coats: Apply two or three more thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

  12. Apply Decals (Optional): If you're using caliper decals, apply them after the final coat of paint has dried. Follow the decal manufacturer's instructions carefully.

  13. Remove Masking: Carefully remove the masking tape and paper.

  14. Allow to Cure: Allow the paint to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This can take several hours or even overnight.

  15. Reinstall the Wheel: Carefully reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts by hand.

  16. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the vehicle to the ground and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Consult your owner's manual for the correct torque specification.

  17. Repeat for Other Calipers: Repeat the process for the remaining calipers.

Choosing the Right Color: Making Your GLE Pop

Selecting the right color for your brake calipers is essential for achieving the desired aesthetic. Here are some popular choices and considerations:

  • Red: A classic and sporty choice that complements most vehicle colors. Red calipers are often associated with high-performance vehicles.

  • Yellow: A bold and eye-catching option that adds a touch of flair. Yellow calipers can look particularly striking on dark-colored vehicles.

  • Blue: A more subtle and sophisticated choice that can complement blue or silver vehicles.

  • Black: A clean and understated option that blends in well with most wheel designs. Black calipers can be a good choice if you want a more subtle look.

  • Silver/Gray: A neutral option that complements most vehicle colors and provides a clean, modern look.

  • Matching Your GLE's Paint: Consider matching the caliper color to your GLE's paint job for a cohesive and integrated look.

When choosing a color, consider the following factors:

  • Your GLE's Paint Color: Choose a color that complements your vehicle's paint job.

  • Your Personal Style: Select a color that reflects your personal taste and preferences.

  • The Overall Look You're Trying to Achieve: Do you want a sporty, aggressive look, or a more subtle and sophisticated look?

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I paint my brake calipers without removing them? Yes, but it's much harder to achieve a professional-looking finish and properly clean the back side of the caliper. Removing the caliper is highly recommended for the best results.

  • What kind of paint should I use? Use only high-temperature enamel or epoxy-based paints specifically designed for brake calipers. Regular automotive paint will not withstand the heat and will quickly peel or fade.

  • How many coats of paint should I apply? Apply at least two to three thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

  • How long does it take for the paint to dry? Drying time varies depending on the type of paint and the ambient temperature. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

  • Do I need to clear coat my brake calipers? While not strictly necessary, applying a clear coat can add extra protection and shine to the finish. Use a high-temperature clear coat specifically designed for brake calipers.

Final Thoughts: A Personalized Touch for Your GLE

Painting your brake calipers is a fantastic way to add a personalized touch to your 2020 GLE and enhance its overall appearance. Take your time, follow the steps carefully, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done. Remember to prioritize safety and use high-quality materials for a long-lasting and professional-looking finish.