Will Brake Cleaner Stop Squeaky Brakes?

Having squeaky brakes can be more than just an annoying noise — it’s a potential red flag for brake maintenance. You’ve heard the suggestion before: Use brake cleaner. But the question remains: Will it actually do the trick and give you the peace and quiet you desire every time you hit the pedal?

In this comprehensive look into the matter, we’ll explore the effectiveness of brake cleaner in resolving squeaky brakes and provide you with the insights you need to make informed decisions about your automotive health.

Understanding Squeaky Brakes

The aggravating sound of squeaky brakes can turn heads for all the wrong reasons. Before diving into the solution, it’s crucial to understand the why behind the squeak. Brakes can squeal for a number of reasons — worn-out brake pads, debris lodged in the brake system, or even rust build-up on the brake rotors can all be culprits (Cars.com).

Given the range of potential issues, identifying the exact cause of the noise is the first step before applying any fix.

What Is Brake Cleaner?

Brake cleaner is a potent chemical solvent that can effectively remove grease, oil, and other contaminants from your braking system. It is a popular product, often aerosol-based, specifically designed to clean brake parts without leaving behind residue.

The main purpose of brake cleaner is to ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of the braking system. It’s quick-drying and usually non-corrosive, which makes it safe for various components of the brake system (EPA).

Will It Stop the Squeak?

Now, let’s address the burning question: Can brake cleaner indeed silence the screeching of your brakes? Here’s the deal — brake cleaner can be an effective short-term solution. If the squeak is due to dirt, grime or mild rust, spraying the affected area with brake cleaner can alleviate the noise, at least temporarily.

However, remember that not all brake squeaks are due to surface contaminants that can be simply sprayed away. If your brake pads are worn out or if there’s a more significant mechanical issue, brake cleaner is unlikely going to solve the problem long-term. In fact, in some cases, it might not help at all. You’ll likely need to consult a professional mechanic to inspect and repair the root of the problem (ASE).

How to Use Brake Cleaner for Squeaky Brakes

If you determine that debris or minor corrosion is the likely cause of your noisy brakes and want to start with brake cleaner, here’s how you should proceed:

1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is turned off, the parking brake is applied, and the vehicle is secure. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from chemicals.
2. Access the Brake Components: Remove the tire to reach the brakes. You’ll likely need a jack and lug wrench.
3. Application: Hold the can of brake cleaner a few inches away from the parts and spray. Cover the brake pads, calipers, and rotors, but avoid any rubber or plastic components as the solvent can damage them.
4. Let It Work: Allow the cleaner to flow away, taking contaminants with it. Do not wipe the parts; the cleaner should evaporate completely on its own.
5. Test the Brakes: After re-assembling your brakes and wheels, take a safe test drive to check if the squeaking has stopped.

Always follow the instructions on your specific brand of brake cleaner, and dispose of any contaminated cloths or materials properly.

Other Solutions for Squeaky Brakes

If brake cleaner hasn’t done the job, or you suspect the issue stems from something more serious, here are other avenues to explore:

Brake Pad Replacement

Once brake pads wear down past a certain point, they will often squeal loudly to alert you that they need changing. Inspecting and replacing brake pads might be necessary (NAPA).

Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement

Sometimes, if the rotors are uneven or too worn, they can cause the pads to squeak. Resurfacing or replacing your rotors can sometimes eliminate brake noise.

Lubricate Brake Components

Applying a high-temperature lubricant to non-friction surfaces where metal components meet, like the back of the brake pads, can sometimes reduce noise.

Fix Alignment Issues

Misaligned calipers and brake pads can lead to uneven wear and noise. Proper alignment may help prevent squeaking.

The Bottom Line

Brake cleaner can be a first-step solution to addressing squeaky brakes when the cause is loose dirt or minor rust. However, it’s not a cure-all. Regular maintenance and addressing underlying issues with professional help is key to keeping your brakes quiet and, more importantly, functional.

Remember that brakes are a critical safety component of your vehicle. If you’re not confident in your diagnosis or if the issue persists after cleaning, it’s imperative to seek out the expertise of a certified mechanic to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.

Hearing your brakes squeal can be nerve-wracking, but with the right approach, you can drive smoothly and silently down the road once more. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your vehicle running effortlessly with routine maintenance and timely repairs.