Brake Caliper Paint Issue

[eknight]

Hi Everyone,

We just picked up our new 2017 Lightning Blue GT Convertible. At dealer prep, I noticed the front calipers looked splotchy. I just figured they were wet and would dry, or they had dried soap on them. Unfortunately, neither was the case.

Do you think this something a dealership would fix and submit a warranty claim on, or am I going to be forced to repaint them. I hate to have to do that to a car I just bought. I'd take it back to the dealership I bought it from, but they are 300 miles away.

See pics below:

Rear - Look like what I would expect


Front - Both sides look like this

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[poorfortune]

That looks like a brake fluid leak on the calipers at some point. Brake fluid and paint don't mix.

I would definitely have the dealership inspect the brakes to make sure everything is buttoned up on them properly. If you really wanted to push them you could probably get the calipers replaced, but as long as they are functioning properly there shouldn't be a need.

 

[09jsw]

Sometimes they use an acid based cleaner on wheels in the prep bay. Looks like a chemical got on it. If it bothers you I'd contact the dealer.

 

[wireeater]

It looks like someone used a non-safe wheel cleaner. That doesn't look like a leak. If you can prove they did it I would take it back and speak with a manager.

 

[AmericanLegend]

I'd send that front caliper picture to the salesman & service manager. The sooner the better. Hopefully they will be willing to install new calipers to maintain a fully satisfied customer.

 

[HISSMAN]

It was the wheel cleaner you used. If you didn't use any wheel cleaner, and you went through a touchless car wash, then it was the cleaner/soaps that they use. It is aluminum oxidization. You can polish it out.

 

[poorfortune]

I didn't even think about a wheel cleaner because I only use one that don't strip paint. :doh: Seems odd that only the front would be that way. Either way I would let the dealership know.

 

[eknight]

Thanks everyone. The problem is the dealership is 300 miles away.

 

[AmericanLegend]

It was the wheel cleaner you used. If you didn't use any wheel cleaner, and you went through a touchless car wash, then it was the cleaner/soaps that they use. It is aluminum oxidization. You can polish it out.

Those calipers don't have paint on them.

as HISSMAN said, it looks like aluminum oxidation. Since the dealer is so far away, I'd get a bristle brush and see if you can scrub the oxidation off?

Worse case...you can't get the dealer to help you out, and the oxidation is too deep to clean up to your satisfaction.

Replace the calipers....$90 bucks each for OEM replacements online.

 

[Brian V]

Mine look nice !

 

[Gooner86]

Mine look nice !

What did you paint with? Looks good.

 

[AmericanLegend]

I've used red VHT Caliper paint & clear coat on a previous car. Turned out great. Big issue is touching up chips....especially after tire shop visits.

 

[jhatley7]

The only Ford dealership is 300 miles away?

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