The easiest way to stay safe on the road is to keep your car brakes clean. Dust, dirt and small metal particles collect around the brakes with time and affect the performance of brakes. Most of the drivers ignore this because these buildup are not always visible, but it can make a big difference in your car brakes performance.
Cleaning car brakes is not such a difficult task. You just need a few basic tools and can do it at home. This guide will help you to clean your car brakes in simple and easy steps.
Signs Your Car Brakes Need Cleaning
Your car will start getting small hints when your car brakes need cleaning. These signs are easy to notice and normally appear when dust and dirt start affecting how well your brakes work.
- Common signs your car brakes need cleaning:
- Squeaking or light grinding noise when you press the brake pedal
- Car takes a little longer to stop than usual
- Too much brake dust making your wheels look dark or dirty
- Small vibrations in the steering wheel while braking
- A light burning smell after braking
- Brakes feeling slightly less responsive than normal
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before you start cleaning your car brakes, it’s important to have the right tools. These simple items will help you clean the brakes safely and properly at home.
Here are the items you’ll need:
- Brake cleaner spray
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Wire brush
- Microfiber cloth
- Gloves
- Safety mask
Safety Precautions You Should Never Ignore
Cleaning car brakes can be easy, but you should always follow some safety rules. Brakes have dust and parts that can hurt you if you are not careful. Following these precautions will keep you safe while cleaning.
- Safety precautions to remember:
- Always park the car on a flat surface and use the handbrake
- Let the brakes cool down before starting
- Wear gloves and a safety mask to protect yourself from dust
- Never use compressed air to blow brake dust as it is dangerous
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Car Brakes Properly
Cleaning your car brakes is easy if you follow these steps one by one. Take your time and do each step carefully.
Step 1: Loosen the Wheel Nuts
Before you lift the car, turn the wheel nuts a bit to loosen them while the car is on the ground. This makes it easier and safer to remove the wheel later.
Step 2: Lift the Car and Remove Wheel
Use a jack to lift the car and place the jack stands for safety. Then remove the wheel completely to access the brakes.
Step 3: Inspect the Brake Assembly
Look at the brake parts including the rotor, caliper, and brake pads. Check for uneven wear or damage that may need attention.
Step 4: Apply Brake Cleaner
Spray brake cleaner directly on the rotor, caliper, and pads. Let it sit for a few moments so it can break down dust and dirt.
Step 5: Scrub Lightly If Needed
Use a wire brush to remove small rust spots or stubborn dirt. Wipe the parts with a microfiber cloth to remove the loosened grime.
Step 6: Reapply Cleaner and Wipe
Spray some more cleaner if needed and make sure all parts are clean and dry before putting the wheel back.
Step 7: Reinstall the Wheel
Place the wheel on and tighten the nuts one after another in a crisscross pattern. This ensures the wheel is secure and safe to drive.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Brakes
Cleaning car brakes is easy, but there are some things you should never do. Doing the wrong thing can damage your brakes or put you at risk. It is just as important to know what not to do as it is to know the right steps.
- Do not use water or soap on brake parts because it can damage them
- Do not put any oil or lubricant on the brake pads or rotors
- Do not skip wearing gloves and a safety mask
- Do not clean brakes immediately after driving because they will be hot
- Do not use compressed air to blow off brake dust because it is dangerous to breathe
How Often Should You Clean Your Car Brakes?
You should clean your car brakes regularly to keep them working properly. For most cars, cleaning them every six months or during each tire rotation is enough. If you drive in dusty areas or use your brakes a lot, you may need to clean them more often. Regular cleaning helps your brakes last longer and keeps your car safe on the road.
When to Call a Professional Instead
Sometimes you should not clean the brakes by yourself and need a professional. If the rotors have cracks or deep grooves, a mechanic should check them. If the brake pads are too thin, they also need to be replaced by an expert.
If the brakes still make noise or feel uneven after cleaning, it is better to get help. If the car pulls to one side when braking, a professional should fix it. This keeps your brakes safe and working well.
Final Tips for Longer Brake Life
To make your brakes last longer, there are a few simple things you can do. Try to avoid hard braking when it is not needed. Keep your wheels clean so brake dust does not build up. Use good quality brake pads for better performance.
It is also helpful to get your brakes checked regularly by a professional. Following these tips will keep your brakes working well and make driving safer.
Conclusion
Cleaning your car brakes is simple and helps keep your car safe. Regular cleaning removes dust and dirt that can affect brake performance. By following the right steps and taking care of your brakes, you can make them last longer and drive more safely.
