How to Clean Rust Off Rotors

Generally speaking, the rust on your vehicle's rotors are the result of not using them. "Ring rust" is a special rust pattern on rotors that indicates a brake caliper that is sticking and not making full contact with the rotor surface. While unsightly, rust is not typically problematic for a brake rotor. Brake rotors are made of iron, and so will oxidize regardless of what you do. What keeps this from being a problem is frequent use. Still, if you have rust on your rotors, it is helpful to know how to get rid of it.

Things You'll Need

• 1000-grit sandpaper
• Brake parts cleaner

Instructions

1. Sand down the rusted area with 1000-grit sandpaper until all rust is removed from the rotor.

2. Spray the rotor down with brake parts cleaner.

3. Drive your vehicle as normal if the rotor is installed on the vehicle and engage the brakes slowly over 5 to 10 feet. This will clean off any accumulated rust on the rotor surface.

References

• "Automotive Brake Manual Maintaining, Troubleshooting, and Repairing Brake Systems"; Bob Henderson, John H. Haynes; 1994