How to Clean Brake Calipers on a Vehicle 🚗🛠️
Cleaning brake calipers is essential for proper braking performance and longer brake life. Over time, calipers accumulate dust, rust, and grime, which can cause brake drag, uneven wear, or sticking calipers.
Tools & Materials Needed
✔️ Jack & jack stands (to lift the vehicle)
✔️ Lug wrench (to remove wheels)
✔️ Brake cleaner spray
✔️ Wire brush or brass brush
✔️ Nylon brush (for softer cleaning)
✔️ Compressed air (optional)
✔️ Shop towels or rags
✔️ Brake grease (if lubricating slide pins)
✔️ Socket set & ratchet (if removing caliper)
✔️ Rubber gloves & safety glasses
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Lift the Vehicle & Remove the Wheel
1️⃣ Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2️⃣ Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the car is still on the ground.
3️⃣ Jack up the car and secure it with jack stands.
4️⃣ Remove the wheel to expose the brake caliper.
2. Inspect the Brake Caliper
🔍 Look for rust, dirt, and debris buildup.
🔍 Check for leaking brake fluid, which could indicate a bad piston seal.
🔍 Test the slide pins to ensure they move freely—if not, they may need lubrication.
3. Clean the Caliper Exterior
🧼 Spray brake cleaner directly onto the caliper to remove dirt and grease.
🧼 Use a wire brush to scrub off rust and built-up grime.
🧼 For delicate parts, use a nylon brush to avoid damage.
🧼 Wipe with a clean shop towel.
4. Clean the Brake Pads & Brackets
📌 If needed, remove the caliper (use a socket wrench to unbolt it).
📌 Clean brake pad slots and hardware with a wire brush.
📌 Do NOT use oil-based cleaners—only brake cleaner.
📌 Wipe down with a rag or compressed air.
5. Lubricate Slide Pins (If Necessary)
🛠️ Remove the caliper bolts/slide pins and clean them with a rag.
🛠️ Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease (avoid excessive grease).
🛠️ Reinstall the slide pins, ensuring they move smoothly.
6. Reassemble & Test the Brakes
✔️ Reinstall the caliper (if removed) and ensure bolts are tight.
✔️ Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
✔️ Lower the car and fully tighten the lug nuts.
✔️ Press the brake pedal a few times to restore pressure before driving.
7. Final Safety Check
✅ Check for leaks around the caliper.
✅ Test drive at low speed to ensure brakes function properly.
✅ Listen for noises—squeaking or grinding may indicate further issues.
How Often Should You Clean Brake Calipers?
🛑 Every 6-12 months or when replacing brake pads.
🛑 If you notice brake sticking, uneven braking, or rust buildup.
🛑 If driving in muddy, snowy, or salty conditions (clean more often).
Final Thoughts
✔️ Cleaning your brake calipers improves braking performance and extends their lifespan.
✔️ Use brake cleaner and wire brushes to remove grime and rust.
✔️ Lubricate slide pins to prevent sticking brakes.
✔️ Always perform a test drive after maintenance.