MGP Caliper Covers - More Than Just a Fashion Accessory

Caliper covers are a common addition to performance vehicles or cars decorated for a racing-inspired look. The preeminent manufacturer of caliper covers is MGP, a firm based out of San Diego, California. MGP has been in operation for a couple of decades and present a wide variety of custom caliper covers for most modern vehicles. Depending on your style, the car you drive, and automotive needs, caliper guards are an item you might be interested in.

MGP Caliper Cover (Red)

The first question you may have is “where do caliper guards go?" Caliper covers are inserted over the face of your brake calipers. There are two distinct reasons for this. The first is the most obvious: Style. The number one reason people purchase and install MGP caliper covers is to enhance the look of their wheels and in turn, their vehicle’s entire exterior. On models with aftermarket rims or wide wheels, most times the brake calipers are visible through the alloy. So for anyone looking to get a close-up on your new wheels, they will notice your dulled, metallic brake calipers kind of peeking through. What caliper covers do is just that – cover up the exposed face of the part with a colorful look. MGP caliper guards are finished with a powder-coated shade, most commonly red or black. But plenty of drivers prefer a custom color, which MGP is happy to provide.

MGP Mustang Caliper Covers (Front)

Another facet of the caliper cover experience is protection. In years past, the brand of defense offered by a set of caliper guards was underrated. Most driving enthusiasts thought of the part as simply a fashion accessory. There was even some worry that covering up the calipers would create more heat in the area. Rest assured, MGP caliper covers do not elicit more heat. In fact, they keep the area cooler than it would be without them! That is due in large part to the material the company uses. MGP crafts their covers out of 6061-T6 aluminum. You may be familiar with this type of aluminum, as it is used in many ways, such as for other automotive accessories, bicycle frames, and the like. The aluminum of the cover does not take the heat initiated from braking and absorb it. Instead, it manages the temperature and keeps the heat from increasing. This not only keeps the cover cool, but it also keeps the pistons and immediate area at a reasonable temp.

Caliper covers also prevent from brake dust and sediment from becoming an issue. Once again, the aluminum comes into play here. The more the calipers are kept clean, the less likelihood you have of brake dust seeping into the components and causing wear-and-tear later on. And if there is some sort of dusty buildup on the caliper guards it’s no problem. Thanks to their deluxe powder-coat, MGP caliper covers can be wiped clean.

Ford Mustang "Magnus" Caliper Cover

But once again, the look is the main attraction, so let’s get back to that. The stock appearance of MGP brake caliper guards is to have the letters “MGP” displayed in the middle. For certain models, such as high-profile vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Chevy Corvette, Chevy Camaro, and so forth, there are sets of caliper covers available that have either the automaker’s name or the name of the model engraved in. Sub-models can show even more distinction with terms like “SS” for the Camaro or “Magnus” for Mustang. However, MGP does not have this type of text as a stock offering for all models. So, let’s say you have a Honda S2000 and want “S2000” displayed on your covers, MGP will do it for you as a custom order. They will engrave most custom text or logos drivers want if they are provided with an uploaded image file.

Installation is easy. As the saying goes, “if you can change a tire, you can install caliper covers.” And that is pretty much close to how it’s done, although the saying would be more accurate if it was “if you know how to rotate tires, you can install caliper covers.” What you have to do in a nutshell, is this: Get a floor jack, jack up your car and remove one wheel at a time. Caliper covers come with clips and nuts. Put a cover on, fitting the clip over the top of it and screwing it in. Replace the wheel and move on to the next one. That’s pretty much it. Depending on your motivation, space in the driveway or garage, and experience, it should take about an hour to get all four wheels completed. Then again, if you only purchased a set of MGP caliper covers for the fronts, it takes half the time.

At Ultrarev, we have a huge assortment of MGP caliper covers available. Check out our selection and look for your model. Whether you are a performance fanatic looking for extra panache or just an everyday driver in the mood for some added expression, caliper covers can be a quick and easy way to give your ride something unique that sets it apart.

Follow us on Instagram!