Brake dust normally builds up around the wheel wells, along the bottom of the body, and at the rear of your vehicle. It may look like black dust or orange flecks of rust. Brake dust caught in your sponge could dig into your clear coat or paint, so always rinse the sponge off any time you run it over your vehicle. Stick with soft cleaning sponges or towels that don’t have any abrasives that could scratch your paint.
Alternatively, you can use a clay sponge. Still apply lubricant to the paint surface before using the sponge.
Some iron removal sprays are meant for removing brake dust from wheels. You can use them on car paint as long as they’re labeled “acid-free” or “neutral pH. ” This spray also works to remove brake dust from painted wheels. Some iron removal sprays change colors when they come into contact with brake dust so you can easily see where there’s buildup. Follow the instructions on the specific iron removal spray you purchase since they may vary slightly between brands.
Most newer vehicles already have brake dust shields, but older or custom vehicles may not have them installed.
Clear coat creates a protective layer over your paint that makes brake dust slip off the surface instead of sticking.
Only use brake pads that are recommended by the manufacturer of your vehicle. Some modern vehicles will only work with specific replacement parts that they’ve developed.
