How to 3D Print an RC Car (Beginner Guide)

3D printing an RC car is one of the easiest ways to start building real mechanical projects at home. MadBaxRC is designed specifically for beginners who want a reliable, strong, and upgradeable 3D printed RC car. This guide explains how to 3D print an RC car step by step, what parts you need, and how to avoid common beginner mistakes.

3D Printed RC Car Step-by-Step Video Guides

MadBaxRC has detailed video guides for every stage of the build process. Each step - from 3D printing parts to final assembly and testing - is explained in a dedicated video set.

Watch the full MadBaxRC build video playlist here: MadBaxRC step-by-step video guides

Why Choose a MadBaxRC 3D Printed RC Car

MadBaxRC is not a toy. It is a modular DIY RC platform created for learning, customization, and real-world durability. Unlike store-bought RC cars, MadBaxRC is fully printable, repairable, and upgradeable.

  • Beginner-friendly design
  • Modular chassis and suspension
  • Easy to repair by reprinting parts
  • Compatible with common RC electronics
  • Designed for home 3D printers

What You Need to 3D Print an RC Car

1. 3D Printer Requirements

You do not need an expensive 3D printer to build a MadBaxRC car. Any modern desktop FDM printer with a heated bed can handle all parts.

  • 0.4 mm nozzle
  • PLA or PETG support
  • Minimum build volume of 166 x 100 x 100 mm for the chassis
  • Minimum build volume of 203 x 157 x  214 mm for the shell

2. Best Filament for Beginners

Filament choice directly affects strength and durability. MadBaxRC parts are optimized for beginner-friendly materials.

  • Chassis - PLA+ or PETG or PA
  • Suspension parts - PETG or PA
  • Gears - PLA+ or PETG or PA
  • Wheels - TPU
  • Body shell - PLA

PLA+ is recommended for your first build because it prints cleanly and is easy to tune.

3. Required RC Electronics

MadBaxRC uses widely available RC components, making it easy to source parts worldwide.

  • Brushed or brushless motor
  • Electronic speed controller (ESC)
  • Steering servo
  • RC receiver and transmitter
  • Battery pack (Li-ion or LiPo)

The detailed bill of materials is here.

How to 3D Print MadBaxRC Parts

Correct print settings are more important than print speed. MadBaxRC parts are designed to be strong, not just good-looking.

  • Layer height - 0.2 mm
  • Perimeters - 4 to 6
  • Infill - 30 to 50 percent
  • Infill pattern - gyroid or cubic
  • Print orientation - strength first

Avoid reducing walls or infill to save filament. Strength is critical for RC applications.

Assembly Tips for Beginners

Assembly is where most beginners make mistakes. MadBaxRC is designed to be forgiving, but attention to detail matters.

  • Do not overtighten screws
  • Align bearings and shafts carefully
  • Use thread lock on metal screws

If a part breaks during assembly, simply reprint it. This is a normal part of the learning process.

Printing and Painting the RC Car Body

MadBaxRC body shells are optimized for PLA printing and easy finishing. You can sand, fill, and paint the shell using standard spray paints.

  • Sand with 400 to 800 grit
  • Use filler primer if needed
  • Apply light paint coats

How Much Does a 3D Printed RC Car Cost

A beginner MadBaxRC build is more affordable than store-bought RC cars with comparable specifications.

  • Filament - 10 to 20 USD
  • Electronics - 100 to 150 USD
  • Hardware - 30 to 50 USD

The total cost is typically between USD 140 and USD 240, depending on the selected components.

Is MadBaxRC Durable

Yes. MadBaxRC is designed around repairability and real-world use. Instead of replacing a broken car, you replace a single printed part.

Durability depends on print quality, material choice, and correct assembly. Following the recommended settings results in a strong and reliable RC car.

Is This a Good First 3D Printing Project

MadBaxRC is an excellent beginner project. It teaches practical skills that transfer to real engineering and product design.

  • 3D printer tuning
  • Mechanical assembly
  • RC electronics basics
  • Design iteration and upgrades

Next Steps With MadBaxRC

Once your first car is running, you can upgrade and expand the platform.

  • Upgrade to brushless motors
  • Change gearing and suspension
  • Add FPV or onboard cameras
  • Print custom body shells

Final Thoughts

MadBaxRC is more than a 3D printed RC car. It is a learning platform designed to grow with you. If you have a 3D printer, you already have everything you need to start.