Brake Cleaner
A powerful chemical solvent spray used to clean oil, grease, brake fluid, and dust from brake assemblies.
Brake cleaner (also known as parts cleaner) is a fast-evaporating aerosol solvent specifically formulated to clean and degrease brake components. Its main function is to remove oil, grease, brake fluid, dirt, and hazardous brake dust from brake rotors, drums, pads, shoes, and calipers. By leaving no residue, it ensures maximum friction between the pads and rotors, preventing brake slippage and squealing.
There are two primary types of brake cleaners: chlorinated and non-chlorinated. Chlorinated brake cleaners contain compounds that are highly effective at dissolving contaminants and are non-flammable, but they release toxic gases when heated. Non-chlorinated cleaners use flammable solvents like acetone or isopropyl alcohol, which are safer for the environment but require caution near sparks or open flames.
Because brake cleaner is a strong solvent, it can degrade rubber seals, plastic parts, and painted surfaces. Technicians must avoid spraying it directly on caliper slide pin boots, brake hoses, or electrical connectors. It is also commonly used as a general-purpose degreaser in automotive shops to locate oil leaks on engine blocks.