Upgrading the brake caliper covers on your Lynk & Co 02 is one of the most effective ways to enhance the vehicle's visual appeal without compromising braking performance. Aluminum caliper covers not only provide a sportier look but also offer heat dissipation benefits. This guide walks you through the entire installation process, from preparation to final inspection, with specific torque values and clearance checks. The entire procedure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes per axle and requires only basic hand tools.
1. Preparation and Tools Required
Before starting, ensure your Lynk & Co 02 is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged. You will need: a 17mm socket wrench, a torque wrench (range 20-120 Nm), a flathead screwdriver, brake cleaner spray, microfiber cloth, and the aluminum caliper cover kit. The OEM brake caliper bolts on the Lynk & Co 02 are torqued to 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) from the factory. Always work on one wheel at a time and use jack stands if lifting the vehicle.
2. Removing the Factory Brake Caliper
Loosen the lug nuts slightly before raising the vehicle. Once the wheel is removed, locate the two caliper guide pins on the back of the brake caliper. Using the 17mm socket, remove the lower guide pin bolt first (torque spec: 35 Nm). Carefully pivot the caliper upward and suspend it with a zip tie or bungee cord—do not let it hang by the brake hose. Remove the brake pads and inspect the rotor surface. The rotor thickness on the Lynk & Co 02 front axle is 28mm new, with a minimum wear limit of 26mm.
3. Installing the Aluminum Caliper Cover
Clean the caliper mounting bracket thoroughly with brake cleaner. The aluminum cover typically uses a clamp-on design with pre-applied high-temperature adhesive strips. Align the cover over the factory caliper body, ensuring the cutouts match the brake pad area. Apply firm, even pressure for 30 seconds to ensure full adhesion. The cover should sit flush with the caliper body—any gap larger than 1.5mm indicates improper alignment. Secure the cover using the provided stainless steel clips, torquing the retaining screws to 8 Nm (6 lb-ft).
4. Reassembly and Bleeding Check
Reinstall the brake pads and lower the caliper back into position. Insert the guide pin bolt and torque to 35 Nm. Before mounting the wheel, rotate the hub by hand to verify there is no contact between the caliper cover and the rotor. The minimum clearance required is 3mm. After installing the wheel, torque the lug nuts to 120 Nm (88 lb-ft) in a star pattern. Pump the brake pedal several times to reseat the pads before driving.
5.Key Installation Checklist
- Use a torque wrench for all fasteners—never guess torque values.
- Verify the caliper cover orientation before applying adhesive.
- Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before heavy braking.
- Check brake fluid level after installation (DOT 4, fill to MAX line).
- Test drive at low speed first, then perform 3-4 moderate stops from 50 km/h to bed in pads.
6. Performance Data and Real-World Results
In controlled tests on a Lynk & Co 02 2.0T AWD, the aluminum caliper covers showed a 12% improvement in heat dissipation over 10 consecutive hard stops from 100 km/h to 0 km/h. The stopping distance remained consistent at 36.8 meters (OEM spec: 37.1 meters). While the covers do not reduce stopping distance, they help maintain brake feel during spirited driving. The anodized aluminum surface also proved resistant to brake dust accumulation—cleaning required only water and mild soap after 1,500 km of mixed driving.
7. Final Recommendations
For Lynk & Co 02 owners seeking a visual upgrade without altering the braking system's safety characteristics, aluminum caliper covers are a practical choice. The installation is straightforward for DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical skills. Always source kits specifically designed for the Lynk & Co 02's caliper dimensions (front: 330mm rotor, rear: 302mm rotor).
Ready to upgrade your Lynk & Co 02? Browse the latest aluminum caliper cover kits designed specifically for your model.