How to clean brake discs
Wednesday 12th July 2023
Brake discs are made up of iron or carbon composite that is attached to the suspension of a car and is gripped by brake pads that are held in a brake caliper. The friction between the brake pads and discs is what brings the vehicle to a stop. Brake discs help the driver to easily adapt the pressure for a smooth stop by providing more feel to the brake pedal.
How long do brake discs last?
Typically, brake discs may last upwards of 50,000 miles if properly maintained. Depending on how yyou drive and maintain your vehicle, brake discs could last up to 120,000 miles, though they may start to deteriorate at the 25,000 mile mark with careless driving and if your car is not looked after properly.
How to clean brake discs
Step One
Firstly, you should ensure your vehicle is securely off the ground. You should jack your car up and support it on an axle stand, then use a wheel nut to securely take the wheels off one at a time.
Step Two
Now that the wheel is off, you will need to remove the brake caliper by taking out the caliper bolts to fully access the brake disc. Once the bolts are out, the caliper should easily slide up and off the brake disc. If it is difficult to remove, try wriggling it until it becomes loose.
Step Three
After you have removed the caliper, the brake disc will be held in place by bolts. These should be removed and set aside so that you are able to begin cleaning your brake discs.
Step Four
To clean the brake discs, we recommend using a cloth and brake cleaning fluid to gently wipe the surface. If you notice a line of rust around the disc rim, this is to be expected and should be nothing to worry about.
Step Five
Once you are happy with how your brake discs look, we recommend checking them over for any signs of wear. If you notice any marks or pitting corrosion on the brake disc, then it is time for them to be replaced. However, if the condition looks well, put the brake discs back into place with the correct bolts and secure the brake caliper back into place. Repeat these steps for the remaining three tyres.
How to clean rust off brake discs
As brake discs are usually made up of cast iron and are located under your vehicle, rust can be a common occurrence. Though there is no way to stop rust from building up overtime, we recommend regularly driving your car as the most efficient way to get rid of any rust on the brake discs. Driving your car often will help to scrape the rust from the discs to help expose the cleaner metal underneath.
When should I replace my brake pads and discs?
Depending on the vehicle you drive and your driving style, this will impact the lifespan of your vehicle’s brake components. We recommend referring to your vehicle’s handbook for the suggested intervals your car manufacturer recommends for your brake discs and brake pads to be replaced.
Here at Formula One Autocentres, we offer a comprehensive free brake check. Simply locate your nearest centre if you suspect you have worn brake discs or pads, or contact a member of our expertly trained team to find out more.
