We have all been there: you have just finished detailing your ride or bolted on a fresh set of aftermarket wheels, but those rusty, industrial-looking stock calipers are ruining the entire aesthetic. It is frustrating when your vehicle looks nearly perfect but lacks that final, high-performance touch that ties the build together.
Learning how to install mgp caliper covers is the most effective way to solve this visual dilemma without the multi-thousand-dollar price tag of a big brake kit. I promise that by the following this guide, you will be able to achieve a professional, track-inspired look in your own garage with basic hand tools.
In this comprehensive walkthrough, we will cover everything from the initial safety preparations to the critical clearance checks that ensure your new covers stay secure. We will also dive into the technical reasons why these aluminum upgrades are superior to cheap plastic alternatives or messy paint jobs.
Understanding the MGP Caliper Cover System
Before we pick up a wrench, it is essential to understand what makes MGP covers unique in the automotive world. Unlike universal plastic covers that use messy adhesives, these are vehicle-specific components engineered from 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum. This material choice is vital because it helps dissipate heat rather than trapping it against your brake system.
The patented fastening system uses stainless steel clips that are designed to withstand the vibration and thermal expansion of daily driving. Because they are CNC-machined for your specific make and model, the fitment is precise, mimicking the look of a high-end multi-piston caliper while protecting your actual hardware from excessive brake dust buildup.
Many off-roaders and weekend cruisers prefer this route because it provides a cleanable surface that resists the harsh chemicals found in wheel cleaners. Once you understand how to install mgp caliper covers, you can transform the side profile of your truck, SUV, or car in less than an hour per axle.
Why Material Choice Matters for DIYers
When you are working on your braking system, safety is the priority. Cheap plastic covers can melt or become brittle over time, potentially falling off and getting lodged in your wheel spokes or suspension. MGP covers are TIG welded for strength and powder-coated for a finish that outlasts traditional caliper paint.
The aluminum construction also acts as a heat sink. While they are primarily aesthetic, testing has shown they can actually reduce caliper temperatures slightly by drawing heat away from the iron housing and into the airflow passing through the wheels. This is a significant benefit for those who live in mountainous regions or enjoy spirited weekend drives.
Essential Tools and Preparation for the Job
Success in any DIY automotive project starts with having the right gear on hand. You do not need a professional lift or a shop full of air tools to handle this installation. Most of the items required are likely already sitting in your home toolbox or stored in your trunk’s emergency kit.
Gather the following tools before you begin:
- A reliable floor jack and a pair of sturdy jack stands.
- A lug wrench or a 1/2-inch drive socket set for wheel removal.
- A 3/8-inch wrench or socket (specifically for the MGP nuts).
- A feeler gauge or a standard business card (to check clearance).
- A wire brush and some brake cleaner to prep the surface.
- A torque wrench to ensure your lug nuts are tightened to factory specs.
Creating a Safe Workspace
Never work on a vehicle supported only by a hydraulic jack. Always place jack stands under the manufacturer-recommended lifting points. If you are working on a driveway with a slight incline, use wheel chocks on the tires that remain on the ground to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Cleaning the calipers before installation is a “pro tip” that many skip. Use a wire brush to knock off loose rust and brake dust. This ensures that the stainless steel clips sit flush against the caliper housing, preventing any unwanted movement or “clicking” sounds later on.
How to Install MGP Caliper Covers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your vehicle is safely lifted and the wheels are removed, we can begin the actual installation process. This procedure is generally the same for both the front and rear axles, though the clip sizes may vary depending on your specific vehicle’s brake configuration.
- Identify the Correct Cover: MGP sets are usually labeled or shaped to match the front and rear calipers. Hold the cover up to the caliper to ensure the contour matches the curvature of the brake housing.
- Slide the Clips into Place: Most MGP systems use two clips per caliper. These clips typically slide over the “bridge” of the caliper or hook into the gap between the caliper and the bracket. Ensure they are fully seated and not pinching any rubber brake lines or bleeder screw caps.
- Position the Cover: Align the holes in the caliper cover with the studs on the clips. The cover should sit flat against the clips without being forced. If it feels tight, double-check that the clips are centered on the caliper body.
- Secure the Fasteners: Thread the provided stainless steel nuts onto the clip studs by hand. Use your 3/8-inch wrench to tighten them. You do not need to over-torque these; they only need to be snug and secure to prevent vibration.
- The Clearance Test: This is the most critical step. Before putting the wheel back on, ensure there is a gap between the cover and the brake rotor. There should be at least a few millimeters of space to allow for thermal expansion.
Ensuring Wheel Clearance
Once the cover is bolted down, it is time to check for wheel clearance. MGP recommends a minimum of 3mm of clearance between the cover and the internal spokes of your wheel. A common trick among technicians is to use a thick business card; if you can slide it between the cover and the wheel without it getting stuck, you are usually in the clear.
If you find that the cover is touching the wheel, do not panic. Many enthusiasts ask how to install mgp caliper covers on oversized wheels or tight-fitting rims, and the answer is often a thin hub-centric spacer. However, in most cases, a slight adjustment of the clips will provide the necessary room.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Hurdles
Even with a high-quality kit, you might encounter a few snags. One common issue is a slight clicking sound immediately after installation. This usually indicates that a clip is slightly touching the rotor or that the cover is not perfectly centered. Simply loosen the nuts, reposition the cover slightly, and retighten.
Another hurdle is dealing with aftermarket brake pads that might have larger “ears” or backing plates than the OEM versions. If the clip won’t seat properly, check to see if there is any debris or a metal shim interfering with the clip’s path. A small adjustment with a pair of pliers can often give the clip the clearance it needs to snap onto the caliper bridge.
Dealing with Tight Wheel Fitment
If you have upgraded to “deep dish” wheels or rims with a massive offset, the internal clearance can be tricky. Before you finish the job, hand-spin the wheel while the car is still on jack stands. Listen closely for any scraping sounds. If you hear anything, remove the wheel and look for witness marks (small scratches) on the powder coat of the cover to identify where the contact is occurring.
In some rare instances, the balance weights on the inside of your rim might be the culprit. If a weight is hitting the cover, you can have a tire shop move the weights to a different position on the barrel of the wheel to create the necessary room.
Why MGP Caliper Covers Beat Paint and Plastic
If you are still on the fence about how to install mgp caliper covers versus just buying a can of high-temp spray paint, consider the longevity. Caliper paint is notorious for chipping within a single season, especially if you live in the “rust belt” where road salt is common. Once the paint chips, moisture gets underneath, leading to unsightly corrosion that is difficult to fix.
MGP covers provide a consistent, factory-quality finish that paint simply cannot match. Furthermore, they cover the entire ugly side of the caliper, hiding the rough casting marks and the brake pad hardware. This creates a much “cleaner” look that mimics the smooth surface of expensive Brembo or Wilwood systems.
- Durability: Powder coating is significantly tougher than aerosol paint.
- Time Savings: Installing covers takes about an hour; painting requires hours of cleaning, masking, and drying time.
- Reversibility: If you sell your vehicle, you can easily remove the covers and return the car to stock.
- Customization: MGP offers licensed logos (like Ford, Chevy, or Mopar) that you cannot easily replicate with paint.
Long-Term Maintenance and Care
Once you have mastered how to install mgp caliper covers, maintaining them is incredibly simple. Because they are made of aluminum and powder-coated, they do not require special waxes or sealants. During your normal car wash routine, simply use a soft wheel brush and standard car soap to wipe away brake dust.
Avoid using extremely acidic wheel cleaners, as these can eventually dull the finish of the powder coat. If you take your vehicle off-road, ensure you rinse behind the covers to remove any trapped mud or small pebbles. Over time, check the tightness of the 3/8-inch nuts during your semi-annual tire rotations to ensure everything remains “torqued to spec.”
Inspecting for Wear
Every time you perform a brake inspection or change your oil, take ten seconds to peek at your covers. Look for any signs of shifting. If the clips are high-quality stainless steel, they should not rust, but it is always good practice to ensure they haven’t been bent by road debris or a stray rock kicked up on the trail.
If you ever need to replace your brake pads, the covers come off just as easily as they went on. This modular design is a favorite for DIY mechanics who do their own maintenance, as it doesn’t add more than two minutes to a standard brake job.
Frequently Asked Questions About MGP Caliper Covers
Do caliper covers cause brakes to overheat?
No. In fact, because MGP covers are made of aerospace-grade aluminum, they act as a heat sink. Testing has shown that they can actually help dissipate heat away from the caliper more efficiently than the bare iron or steel housing alone. They do not “trap” heat like plastic covers do.
Will these covers fit with my stock wheels?
MGP designs their covers to fit most OEM wheel configurations. However, they require at least 3mm of clearance between the caliper and the wheel spokes. If your stock wheels are very tight to the caliper, you may need a small spacer, but this is rare for factory setups.
Can I install these on my own at home?
Absolutely. If you know how to change a tire, you have the skills necessary to install these covers. The process requires no drilling, no welding, and no adhesive. It is a bolt-on modification that typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes for all four wheels.
Are the logos on the covers legal?
MGP is officially licensed by major manufacturers like Ford, GM, and Chrysler. This means the logos are authentic and legally produced, giving your vehicle an “OEM-plus” look that appears as though it could have come from the factory that way.
What happens if I have aftermarket brakes?
MGP covers are designed to fit stock factory calipers. If you have already upgraded to a big brake kit (like Wilwood or StopTech), these covers will not fit, nor would you need them, as those calipers are already designed for aesthetics and performance.
Final Thoughts on Your DIY Brake Upgrade
Transforming your vehicle’s appearance does not always require a massive budget or a professional shop. Learning how to install mgp caliper covers is a rewarding weekend project that provides immediate visual impact and long-term durability. By following the safety protocols and clearance checks outlined today, you ensure that your ride looks as good as it performs.
Remember to always prioritize safety by using jack stands and checking your clearances twice. Whether you are prepping for a local car show or just want your daily driver to stand out in the parking lot, these covers are the ultimate solution for a clean, professional aesthetic. Get out there, grab your tools, and give your brakes the upgrade they deserve!
Stay safe, keep wrenching, and enjoy the new look of your ride!
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