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The matte silicone hose, why?
In the 2000s, car customisation loved very visible silicone hoses (red, orange, etc.). Over time, a return to the original imposed itself, especially among classic and youngtimer enthusiasts. The most striking difference between a silicone hose and a rubber hose is the appearance glossy. To match the period look, silicone hoses matte have resurfaced: it is not new… and it is above all a technical regression.
Matte silicone hoses: an innovation?
Not really. The first silicone hoses were already… matte. You can see it on production models such as theAlpine GTA V6 Turbo or the Renault 25 V6 Turbo, fitted from 1985 with blue matte silicone sleeves.
Source: Petite Observation Automobile
How is a silicone hose made?
At Mespiecesauto, we have been producing silicone hoses for nearly 20 years. The principle has not changed
1. Tooling — we manufacture a steel mandrel reproducing the original curves and diameters. For complex shapes, we use 3D scanning.
Example: the intake hose R5 Turbo Tour de Corse remade for Bozian, with 4 diameters different, a internal double layer for section continuity (so as not to disturb the flow towards the sensor plate) and anti-collapse reinforcements internal.
3. Autoclave vulcanisation — the whole is wrapped (PVA or nylon) then cured at 150–180 °C under pressure. The pressure compacts the layers and expels the air, the heat cross-links the silicone (it becomes the final elastomer).
Matte or glossy: a finish choice… with real consequences
Just after winding, the curing wrap is chosen:
- Glossy — PVA film (polyvinyl alcohol), water-soluble. After curing then dissolving in water, it leaves a surface very smooth and closed (glossy effect).
- Matte — nylon tape. After curing then mechanical removal, it leaves a surface micro-textured (matte effect).
Consequences:
- PVA / glossy finish — closed surface finish: better cosmetic resistance to ozone, hydrocarbons, dust, and easy cleaning.
- Nylon / matte finish — rough surface: retains deposits and stains, ages faster visually (dulling, superficial micro-cracks) and is difficult to clean.
The trap of “matte marketing”
Matte is nothing new: it is the finish historical derived from nylon, brought back into fashion to ride the “vintage” aesthetic. In an engine bay, even a glossy hose eventually becomes matte naturally with dust and heat. A simple cloth restores its shine, without compromising quality.
Our position at Mespiecesauto
We prioritise technical quality for the cosmetic effect. Producing matte hoses often means manufacturing more simply and sell more expensive in the name of authenticity. We prefer to explain the differences clearly so that everyone makes an informed choice informed.
