Quick notes
- If you are unable to remove the rust from your brake rotors yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic.
- The mechanic will be able to remove the rust using a power tool or a chemical rust remover.
- The best way to clean brake rotors is to use a wire brush or a brake cleaner.
Brake rotors, the circular metal discs that your brake pads clamp down on to slow down your car, are susceptible to rust. This rust can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Reduced braking performance: Rust can build up on the surface of the rotors, which can reduce the amount of friction between the pads and rotors. This can lead to longer stopping distances and decreased braking power.
- Noise: Rust can also cause the rotors to squeal or grind when you brake. This can be a nuisance and can also be a sign of more serious problems.
- Premature wear: Rust can weaken the rotors and make them more susceptible to wear. This can lead to premature failure of the rotors, which can be expensive to replace.
Causes of Brake Rotor Rust
There are a number of factors that can contribute to brake rotor rust, including:
- Exposure to moisture: Rotors are exposed to moisture from the air, rain, and snow. This moisture can cause the rotors to rust, especially if they are not properly protected.
- Salt: Salt is a major cause of rust on brake rotors. When salt is applied to roads in the winter, it can get on the rotors and cause them to rust.
- Brake pad wear: As brake pads wear down, they can release small particles of metal into the air. These particles can land on the rotors and cause them to rust.
How to Prevent Brake Rotor Rust
There are a number of things you can do to prevent brake rotor rust, including:
- Keep your rotors clean: Regularly clean your rotors with a wire brush or a brake cleaner. This will remove any dirt, debris, or salt that could cause rust.
- Apply a rust-resistant coating: There are a number of rust-resistant coatings available that can be applied to rotors. These coatings can help to protect the rotors from moisture and salt.
- Use zinc-plated rotors: Zinc-plated rotors are more resistant to rust than standard rotors. If you live in an area where rust is a problem, consider using zinc-plated rotors.
- Park your car in a dry place: If possible, park your car in a dry place, such as a garage or carport. This will help to protect the rotors from moisture and salt.
- Drive your car regularly: Regularly driving your car will help to keep the rotors dry and free of rust. If you don’t drive your car very often, consider taking it for a short drive every few weeks to help prevent rust.
How to Remove Brake Rotor Rust
If your brake rotors have already rusted, there are a few things you can do to remove the rust:
- Use a wire brush: A wire brush can be used to remove loose rust from the rotors. Be careful not to use too much force, as you could damage the rotors.
- Use a brake cleaner: A brake cleaner can be used to remove stubborn rust from the rotors. Apply the brake cleaner to the rotors and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a wire brush to remove the loosened rust.
- Take your car to a mechanic: If you are unable to remove the rust from your brake rotors yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to remove the rust using a power tool or a chemical rust remover.
Summary: Keeping Your Brake Rotors Rust-Free
By following these tips, you can help to prevent brake rotor rust. This will help to improve your braking performance, reduce noise, and extend the life of your rotors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to clean brake rotors?
A: The best way to clean brake rotors is to use a wire brush or a brake cleaner. Be careful not to use too much force, as you could damage the rotors.
Q: How often should I clean my brake rotors?
A: You should clean your brake rotors regularly, especially if you live in an area where rust is a problem. If you don’t drive your car very often, consider taking it for a short drive every few weeks to help prevent rust.
Q: What is the best way to remove rust from brake rotors?
A: If your brake rotors have already rusted, you can use a wire brush, a brake cleaner, or a chemical rust remover to remove the rust. If you are unable to remove the rust yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic.
Q: How can I prevent brake rotor rust?
A: There are a number of things you can do to prevent brake rotor rust, including:
- Keeping your rotors clean
- Applying a rust-resistant coating
- Using zinc-plated rotors
- Parking your car in a dry place