How to Use Brake Cleaner
by David Medairos
Brakes are the most important safety feature of any vehicle. Airbags and traction control are useless if you can't stop in the first place. Although modern cars and trucks are equipped with braking systems that require very little maintenance, applying an aerosol brake cleaner can help remove any grease or brake fluid from the critical parts. Brake cleaner can also be used to remove brake "dust" that can accumulate on your wheels and stain the finish over time.
Step 1
Park your car in a well-ventilated area.
Step 2
Remove the cap of the brake cleaner can and insert the included plastic tube into the spray nozzle.
Step 3
Spray generously on and around your brake discs or drums, calipers, and pads. You may also spray some cleaner on your wheels if they have accumulated any brake dust. Repeat as necessary until any debris and grease have been washed away.
Step 4
Wipe down your wheels and soak up any excess cleaner with a lint-free cloth. Allow the wheels and brake parts to air dry for several minutes before moving the car again.
References
Tips
- Brake cleaner is a powerful solvent and can stain your driveway or garage floor. Parking the wheel to be cleaned on a piece of scrap cardboard can catch any runoff and keep your area clean.
Things You'll Need
- Lint free cloth
Writer Bio
David Medairos is a freelance writer and musician. With more than 10 years of experience in various fields, he has amassed a general knowledge of most technical and mechanical subjects, computer science and audio engineering, as well as R&D, customer service and marketing. He has written for "Connections Magazine," and is a frequent blogger on several consumer tech sites.
