Do Brakes Need To Be Cleaned?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Yes, the brakes do need to be cleaned. While modern brake systems are designed to require minimal maintenance, regular cleaning of your car’s brakes can help extend their lifespan and ensure optimal performance. Cleaning brakes is a simple yet effective maintenance task that can prevent noise, fading, and premature wear.

How to Clean Car Brakes?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your car brakes effectively:

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Jack up the car: Use a car jack to raise the vehicle and ensure it is secure before brake cleaning.
• Remove the wheel: Take off the wheel that needs cleaning to gain access to the brake components.

Step 2: Clean the Drum Brakes

If your car has drum brakes, follow these steps:

• Remove the drum: Give it a gentle tap to loosen it, then remove it.
• Clean the drum: Use a cloth or brush to wipe away the accumulated dust and debris inside the drum. Dispose of the dirt in a garbage can.
• Apply brake cleaner: Spray brake cleaner inside the drum, covering all surfaces. Tilting the drum can help the cleaner flow out and remove any remaining debris.

Step 3: Clean the Pads and Hardware

• Use a pan: Place a pan underneath the drum to catch any residue or cleaner that drips down.
• Clean the pads and hardware: Wipe the brake pads and associated hardware, such as springs, with a cloth soaked in brake cleaner. Ensure they are free from dirt and grime.
• Lubricate if necessary: If you are performing a full brake job and have disassembled the brake components, apply a small amount of brake grease to the contact points to prevent squeaking.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

Repeat the same cleaning process on the brakes of the other side of the vehicle.

Step 5: Clean the Disc Brakes

If your car has disc brakes, here’s what you need to do:

• Inspect the rotor: Check the rotor for any visible damage or excessive wear. Surface rust is normal and does not affect brake performance.
• Clean the rotor: Wipe the rotor with a cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris. Surface rust does not require cleaning unless it is affecting braking performance.
• Check the brake pads: Examine the brake pads for thickness. If they are thinner than the width of a dime, it’s time to replace them.

Step 6: Fluid Maintenance

While not directly related to brake cleaning, it’s worth mentioning brake fluid maintenance as part of your overall brake care routine:

• Brake fluid flush: Every five years or so, consider flushing the brake fluid to remove any absorbed moisture, which can affect brake performance. If you plan to keep your car long, this maintenance step can be beneficial.

Why You Should Clean Your Brakes?

Cleaning brakes on cars offer several benefits and contributes to their longevity.

1. Prevents corrosion: Cleaning your brakes helps remove accumulated dirt, dust, and debris that can lead to corrosion. Keeping the brake components clean ensures optimal performance and prevents premature wear.
2. Promotes even wear: Regular brake cleaning prevents the build-up of brake dust on the pads and rotors. This build-up can cause uneven wear, leading to a reduction in braking effectiveness and potential damage to the braking system.
3. Increases lifespan: Maintaining clean brakes allows the brake pads to wear more evenly. This prolongs their lifespan, reducing the frequency of brake pad replacements.
4. Improves braking performance: Clean brakes provide better contact between the brake pads and rotors, improving braking performance. You’ll experience more effective stopping power and enhanced safety on the road.

Remember, driving habits play a significant role in brake wear. To further extend the life of your brakes:

• Drive conservatively and avoid unnecessary heavy braking.
• Minimize carrying excessive weight in your vehicle.
• Be proactive in emergencies to avoid sudden and harsh braking.

Combining regular brake cleaning with responsible driving habits can make your brakes last as long as possible and ensure optimal performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Key Notes and Important Points

• Cleaning your car brakes helps prevent corrosion and promotes even wear, increasing lifespan.
• Brake cleaning can be done by following simple steps, including removing the wheel, cleaning drum brakes or inspecting and cleaning disc brakes, and lubricating contact points if necessary.
• Brake cleaning should be incorporated into your regular brake maintenance routine, along with responsible driving habits.
• Brake cleaning is a task that most car owners can perform themselves, but professional help is available if needed.
• Signs that your brakes may need cleaning include squeaking or decreased braking performance.
• Use a brake cleaner specifically formulated for cleaning your car brakes.
• Prioritize safety when cleaning your brakes by using appropriate equipment and following proper procedures.

Conclusion:

Cleaning your car brakes is a simple yet essential maintenance task that can significantly impact their lifespan and performance. Regularly cleaning your brakes can prevent corrosion, promote even wear, and ensure optimal braking performance. Whether your car has drum brakes or disc brakes, following the proper cleaning procedures and incorporating brake cleaning into your routine maintenance can help your brakes last almost forever. Remember to drive responsibly and proactively avoid sudden and harsh braking.