Brake cleaner is a powerful solvent designed to remove grease, oil, and grime from automotive brake components. It’s a staple in any mechanic’s toolbox and can be incredibly useful for cleaning up spills and preparing surfaces for repair. However, its potent nature means it’s not suitable for all applications. Using brake cleaner on the wrong surfaces can cause damage, discoloration, or even pose safety hazards. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various materials and surfaces that should never be exposed to brake cleaner, ensuring you use this product safely and effectively.
The Dangers of Misusing Brake Cleaner
Brake cleaner contains powerful solvents like hydrocarbons and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)**, which are highly flammable and can cause skin and eye irritation. While these solvents are effective at dissolving grease and grime, they can also damage certain materials and create hazardous situations if misused.
Here are some potential dangers of using brake cleaner on unsuitable surfaces:
* **Damage to Painted Surfaces:** Brake cleaner can strip away paint, leaving behind a dull or discolored finish.
* **Plastic Degradation:** Many plastics are susceptible to the harsh chemicals in brake cleaner, which can cause them to become brittle, crack, or warp.
* **Rubber Deterioration:** Brake cleaner can dry out and damage rubber seals, hoses, and gaskets, leading to leaks and malfunctions.
* **Electrical Component Damage:** Brake cleaner can corrode electrical contacts and damage sensitive electronic components.
* **Fire Hazard:** Brake cleaner is highly flammable, and its vapors can ignite easily.
Materials to Avoid Cleaning with Brake Cleaner
Understanding which materials are incompatible with brake cleaner is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring safety. Here’s a breakdown of materials you should never use brake cleaner on:
1. Painted Surfaces
Brake cleaner’s solvents can strip away paint, leaving behind a dull or discolored finish. This is especially true for delicate finishes like clear coats and metallic paints. If you need to clean a painted surface, opt for a specialized automotive cleaner designed for that purpose.
2. Plastics
Many plastics are susceptible to the harsh chemicals in brake cleaner. This can cause them to become brittle, crack, or warp over time. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning your plastic components. If in doubt, avoid using brake cleaner altogether.
3. Rubber
Brake cleaner can dry out and damage rubber seals, hoses, and gaskets, leading to leaks and malfunctions. Avoid using brake cleaner on any rubber components, including weatherstripping, window seals, and hoses. Instead, use a specialized rubber cleaner or a mild soap and water solution. (See Also: Is It Ok To Just Replace Brake Pads? The Ultimate Guide)
4. Electrical Components
Brake cleaner can corrode electrical contacts and damage sensitive electronic components. Never use brake cleaner on any electrical components, including wiring harnesses, sensors, and connectors. If you need to clean electrical contacts, use a specialized electrical contact cleaner.
5. Glass
While brake cleaner may appear to clean glass effectively, it can leave behind a residue that attracts dirt and smudges. For best results, use a dedicated glass cleaner.
6. Upholstery and Carpets
Brake cleaner can damage upholstery and carpets, leaving behind stains and discoloration. Avoid using brake cleaner on any fabric surfaces. Instead, use a specialized upholstery cleaner or a mild soap and water solution.
Alternatives to Brake Cleaner
Fortunately, there are numerous alternatives to brake cleaner that are safer and more effective for cleaning various surfaces. Here are some options to consider:
1. All-Purpose Cleaners
Many all-purpose cleaners are formulated to effectively remove grease, grime, and dirt from a variety of surfaces without the harshness of brake cleaner. Look for cleaners that are specifically designed for automotive use.
2. Degreasers
Degreasers are specifically designed to break down and remove grease and oil. They are often less harsh than brake cleaner and can be used on a wider range of surfaces. (See Also: Where to Get Brake Pads and Rotors Replaced? Top Repair Options)
3. Citrus-Based Cleaners
Citrus-based cleaners are a natural and biodegradable alternative to harsh chemical cleaners. They are effective at removing grease and grime while being gentle on surfaces.
4. Water and Soap
For light cleaning tasks, a simple solution of water and soap can be surprisingly effective. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface and rinse thoroughly.
What not to Use Brake Cleaner on?
To reiterate, brake cleaner is a powerful solvent that should be used with caution. Here’s a comprehensive list of materials and surfaces you should never use brake cleaner on:
- Painted surfaces
- Plastics
- Rubber
- Electrical components
- Glass
- Upholstery and carpets
- Skin and eyes
- Foodstuffs
FAQs
What happens if I accidentally get brake cleaner on my skin?
If you accidentally get brake cleaner on your skin, immediately flush the area with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Can I use brake cleaner to clean my car’s interior?
No, brake cleaner is not suitable for cleaning your car’s interior. It can damage upholstery, carpets, and plastic components. Use a specialized automotive interior cleaner instead.
Is brake cleaner flammable?
Yes, brake cleaner is highly flammable. Store it in a cool, dry place away from heat and open flames. Never use brake cleaner near an open flame or spark.
What should I do if I spill brake cleaner on the ground?
If you spill brake cleaner on the ground, immediately ventilate the area and avoid contact with the spill. Absorb the spill with an inert material such as sand or sawdust. Dispose of the contaminated material properly. (See Also: How Much to Fix Rotors and Brake Pads? The Ultimate Cost Breakdown)
Can I use brake cleaner to clean my motorcycle’s engine?
Brake cleaner can be used to clean motorcycle engines, but it’s important to exercise caution. Avoid spraying brake cleaner directly onto electrical components or sensitive parts. Allow the engine to cool completely before cleaning.
Summary
Brake cleaner is a powerful tool for removing grease and grime from automotive components, but its potent nature demands careful handling and responsible use. Understanding which materials are incompatible with brake cleaner is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring safety.
This guide has highlighted the dangers of misusing brake cleaner and provided a comprehensive list of materials that should never be exposed to it. We’ve also explored safer alternatives to brake cleaner for various cleaning tasks. Remember, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning specific components. By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively utilize brake cleaner while protecting your vehicle and yourself.