Things You'll Need:
- Brake Part Cleaner
- Brake Part Cleaning Solvent
- or
- Brush for Scrubbing
- Wide Bucket or Basin
- Aerosol Can of Brake Part Cleaning Solution
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Step 1
Choose the right cleaner for the right job. If you intend to clean brakes professionally, you will want to purchase an all in one brake cleaning machine. These can cost from $500-$2,000 depending on the model. If you only intend to clean brakes once in a while you are much better off with a $5 aerosol can of brake part cleaner.
The procedure for using both is essentially the same. -
Step 2
Find a wide open space to use the brake part cleaner. Brake part cleaning solution is a powerful organic solvent that should not be used indoors. Clean your brakes in an outdoor area or in a garage with the garage door open.
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Step 3
Jack your car up and remove the wheel. If you have drum brakes, you will have to remove the drum to expose the brakes.
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Step 4
If you are using a cleaning machine, you will need to fill the tank with a liquid brake part cleaning solution. Pump, connect to a compressor, or plug the machine in, depending on the type of machine that you are using.
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Step 5
Place the machine (or a bucket if you are using an aerosol cleaner) under the brake you intend to clean. The brake part cleaner will remove a lot of grease from your brakes and make a huge mess if it is not positioned correctly to catch the waste.
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Step 6
Spray an ample amount of cleaning solvent on the brakes. Most brake part cleaning solvents can be sprayed anywhere on the brakes, but refer to the product’s instructions to be sure.
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Step 7
Use the machines scrubbing brush to scrub the dirty areas of the brakes. Continue to spray cleaning solvent as you scrub. If using an aerosol cleaner use a soft wire bristle or hard plastic bristle brush to scrub the tough spots. Use as much brake part cleaner as necessary.
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Step 8
Let the solvent evaporate from the brakes before placing your tire (and drum) back on.
