A reliable brake cleaner is an indispensable tool in any automotive enthusiast’s or professional mechanic’s arsenal. It’s the first line of defense against grease, oil, and brake fluid that can compromise your braking system’s performance and safety. Using the right cleaner ensures that components like calipers, rotors, and drums are free from contaminants that can cause noise, uneven wear, or reduced stopping power.
With numerous options on the market, from fast-drying aerosols to non-flammable and non-chlorinated formulas, selecting the best one for your needs can be a challenge. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the most effective and trusted brake cleaning products available, helping you maintain a critical safety system on your vehicle with confidence.
The Best Brake Cleaners for Your Garage
- CRC 05089 BRAKLEEN Brake Parts Cleaner – Non-Flammable
- CRC Brakleen 1003695 Brake Cleaner Spray Non-Chlorinated
- CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner – 1 Gal
- CRC Brakleen 1003706 Brake Cleaner Spray Non-Flammable
- WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner Spray, 11 oz.
- Permatex 82450 Non-Chlorinated Brake and Parts Cleaner
- Berryman B-12 Chemtool Carburetor/Fuel Treatment
- Würth Brake Protection Paste with Applicator
- Prestone AS401 DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid
- 3M 08946 Brake Cleaner
CRC 05089 BRAKLEEN Brake Parts Cleaner – Non-Flammable
Safety is a top priority in any workshop, and this non-flammable formula from CRC addresses that need directly. It provides a powerful clean without the fire hazard associated with many traditional solvents, making it a responsible choice for both professional and home garages. The three-pack ensures you have a consistent supply on hand for multiple projects.
This cleaner effectively removes brake fluid, grease, and oils from critical components like calipers, drums, and linings. Its fast-evaporating nature means it cleans and dries quickly, leaving behind no residue to attract new contaminants. This helps maintain optimal brake performance and component longevity.
CRC Brakleen 1003695 Brake Cleaner Spray Non-Chlorinated
Designed to meet stringent environmental regulations, this non-chlorinated and low-VOC formula from CRC is a versatile cleaner suitable for use across all 50 states. It is an excellent option for those who need an effective cleaning solution while being mindful of solvent emissions and their environmental impact.
The potent solvent action cuts through grease, oil, and brake fluid on contact, preparing parts for reassembly or inspection. Its residue-free finish helps ensure that brake components function as intended without any interference from leftover cleaning agents.
CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner – 1 Gal
For high-volume users, this one-gallon container of CRC Brakleen offers excellent value and convenience. The non-chlorinated 50-state formula ensures broad compatibility and compliance, making it a reliable bulk option for shops that go through cleaner frequently.
It quickly and effectively removes brake fluid, grease, oil, and other stubborn contaminants from a wide range of parts, including brake linings, calipers, and drums. It is important to note that this particular formula is extremely flammable, so it requires careful handling and proper storage away from any ignition sources.
CRC Brakleen 1003706 Brake Cleaner Spray Non-Flammable
This product offers the safety of a non-flammable formula in a convenient 12-pack, ideal for busy automotive shops or enthusiasts who want to stock up. Maintaining clean brake components is fundamental to vehicle safety, and this cleaner helps maximize performance and system longevity.
It is suitable for use on a comprehensive list of parts, such as spring brakes, brake cylinders, shoes, calipers, and clutch discs. The potent solvent cleans and dries rapidly, removing contaminants without leaving a residue behind, which prepares surfaces perfectly for reassembly.
WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner Spray
While not a dedicated brake cleaner, WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner is a highly effective solution for cleaning sensitive electrical components within the braking system, such as ABS sensors and connectors. Its quick-drying, residue-free formula is designed to remove oil, dirt, and condensation without causing damage.
It is generally safe for use on most plastics, rubbers, and metals, though it is always recommended to test on a small area first. This makes it a versatile addition to your maintenance kit, perfect for ensuring electrical connections are clean and free of interference.
Permatex 82450 Non-Chlorinated Brake and Parts Cleaner
Permatex offers a powerful, non-chlorinated cleaner that penetrates, dissolves, and removes dirt and oil from brake systems and other metal parts. This formula is particularly noted for being safer on aluminum components, which are common in modern brake calipers.
By leaving no contaminant-attracting residue or chlorinated solvent run-off, it helps manage environmental concerns and ensures a clean surface. This results in better brake performance and reduces the risk of contamination affecting new brake fluid or causing corrosion.
Berryman B-12 Chemtool Carburetor/Fuel Treatment
Berryman B-12 Chemtool is a specialized product focused on the fuel system, which indirectly supports overall vehicle performance, including braking efficiency in certain scenarios. It quickly disperses moisture and dissolves gum and varnish deposits that can build up in the fuel system over time.
Using it on the entire fuel system, from the tank to the injectors, can help ensure proper engine operation, which is necessary for consistent vacuum assist in power brake systems. This can contribute to higher compression, fewer repairs, and increased component life.
Würth Brake Protection Paste with Applicator
This is not a cleaner but a crucial companion product for brake service. Würth Brake Protection Paste is a high-temperature, anti-seize lubricant designed specifically for brake components. The included brush-on applicator allows for targeted, clean, and controlled application.
Its high-pressure formula prevents galling and seizing on parts like caliper pins and pad abutment clips, even under extreme temperatures up to 2,012 °F. Being lead-free and halogen-free, it is a modern and effective solution for ensuring brakes operate smoothly and without noise after reassembly.
Prestone AS401 DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid
While not a cleaner, fresh brake fluid is essential after cleaning and servicing brake components. Prestone DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid provides a reliable, high-performance fluid that offers an extra margin of safety in extreme braking conditions.
Its mix of polyglycol ethers ensures that hot brake-system operation will not create dangerous vapor, a condition known as vapor lock. It is an excellent choice for all types of braking systems, including ABS, disc, and drum brakes, ensuring consistent pedal feel and reliable stopping power.
3M 08946 Brake Cleaner
3M is a trusted name in automotive and industrial products, and their brake cleaner is formulated to meet the high standards professionals demand. It is designed to quickly dissolve and remove contaminants like oil, grease, and brake fluid from braking systems and other automotive parts.
This fast-evaporating formula helps to leave a clean, dry surface without residue, which is vital for the proper function of brake components. While specific features for this model are not listed, 3M’s reputation for quality and effectiveness makes it a product worth considering for your brake maintenance tasks.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Brake Cleaner
When I’m working on my car’s brakes, choosing the right cleaner isn’t just about grabbing the first can off the shelf. It’s a critical decision that affects the job’s quality, my safety, and the environment. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best brake cleaners for automotive repair share a few key characteristics, and understanding them makes all the difference.
First, I always consider the formula type. You’ll find two main categories: chlorinated and non-chlorinated. Chlorinated brake cleaners use solvents that contain chlorine, which can be extremely effective at cutting through tough, caked-on grime and brake dust. However, they can be harsh, produce toxic fumes when heated, and are often not compatible with certain plastics or rubbers found on modern cars. Non-chlorinated versions are my usual go-to. They are generally safer for me and the components on my vehicle, especially around ABS sensors and plastic parts. They’re also better for the environment and are often the only type allowed in professional shops due to air quality regulations.
Next, I look at the residue. A high-quality brake cleaner should evaporate quickly and leave absolutely zero residue behind. Any leftover film can attract more dust or, worse, compromise the friction between the brake pad and rotor. I always read the label to confirm it says “fast-drying” and “no residue.” This is non-negotiable for a safe and effective brake job.
The delivery method is another practical consideration. While aerosol cans are the most common and convenient for getting into tight spots, I also keep a bulk supply of a non-aerosol solvent in a parts washer tank for cleaning larger components. For the brake calipers and rotors themselves, the pinpoint accuracy of an aerosol spray nozzle is hard to beat. I also pay close attention to the safety warnings. I make sure I’m working in a very well-ventilated area, like an open garage, and I always wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses. This stuff is not kind to skin or eyes. Finally, I think about the specific task. If I’m doing a full brake service with new parts, a standard non-chlorinated cleaner is perfect. But if I’m dealing with an old, greasy mess that has been baked on for years, I might reach for a heavier-duty, chlorinated formula to get the job done, taking all the necessary safety precautions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaner?
The core difference lies in the chemical solvent used. Chlorinated brake cleaners contain chemicals like perchloroethylene or methylene chloride. These are powerful solvents that are excellent at dissolving stubborn contaminants. However, they can be more hazardous to your health if inhaled and can produce toxic gases if they come into contact with a welding arc or open flame. Non-chlorinated brake cleaners use other solvents, such as acetone, heptane, or toluene. They are generally considered safer for you and are less harmful to the environment. For most DIY jobs on modern cars, a non-chlorinated formula is the safer and more compatible choice.
Is it safe to use brake cleaner on all parts of my car?
No, you have to be careful. Brake cleaner is designed specifically for degreasing metal brake components like rotors, calipers, and drums. You should never use it on painted surfaces, as it will almost certainly strip the paint. It’s also not safe for many plastics and rubbers, as it can cause them to become brittle and crack. Avoid spraying it on electrical connections, wiring, or your car’s body. Always check the product label for its specific compatibility warnings.
Can I use brake cleaner to clean other things, like my engine?
While it’s tempting because it’s such a powerful degreaser, I don’t recommend it for a full engine clean. Brake cleaner evaporates very quickly, so it doesn’t have much “dwell time” to penetrate and break down thick, caked-on engine grime. It’s also expensive compared to dedicated engine degreasers. Where it can be useful is for a quick spot-clean on a metal bracket or a greasy bolt, but for a full engine bay detail, a product designed for that purpose is a better and more economical option.
Why is it important that brake cleaner leaves no residue?
This is one of the most critical aspects of a good brake cleaner. Any residue left behind after the cleaner evaporates can interfere with the braking system’s operation. A filmy residue can act as a lubricant, reducing the friction between the brake pad and rotor, which directly leads to reduced stopping power. It can also attract and hold onto new brake dust and dirt, causing components to grime up faster. A no-residue formula ensures a clean, dry surface for optimal brake performance and safety.
What safety gear should I wear when using brake cleaner?
Your safety should always come first. I never use brake cleaner without wearing safety glasses or goggles to protect my eyes from accidental overspray. I also always wear chemical-resistant gloves, like nitrile gloves, to prevent the solvent from being absorbed through my skin. Finally, and this is crucial, you must work in a well-ventilated area. An open garage door or working outside is ideal to avoid inhaling the concentrated fumes. Using one of the best brake cleaners for automotive repair is effective, but using it safely is paramount.