Keeping your brakes in top working condition is critical for safe driving. Over time, brake dust, oil, and grease can build up on brake parts, reducing braking power. Using a brake cleaner regularly helps remove contaminants and restore braking performance. But when browsing brake cleaners, you’ll notice some are chlorinated while others are non-chlorinated. So which type of brake cleaner is right for your vehicle?
The key difference between chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaners comes down to cleaning power versus environmental impact. Chlorinated cleaners are more effective at removing brake contaminants but are harsher on the environment. Non-chlorinated cleaners are safer for the planet but may require more scrubbing to fully clean brakes.
In this article, I will help you compare chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaners in depth. We’ll analyze the pros and cons of each type to help you choose the best option for your needs. By the end, you’ll understand the key differences between these two brake cleaning approaches and feel confident selecting the right product for your vehicle. Let’s get started!
Chlorinated Brake Cleaners
Now let’s focus on chlorinated brake cleaners specifically. These cleaners contain chlorinated solvents such as perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, or methylene chloride. Here are the main features of chlorinated brake cleaners:
How They Work
Chlorinated solvents are extremely effective at dissolving oil, grease, and other hydrocarbon contaminants. The strong chlorinated agents break down brake contaminants at a chemical level, allowing them to be sprayed away easily after a short soak time.
Pros of Chlorinated Brake Cleaners
- Extremely powerful cleaning ability: Chlorinated solvents easily remove the toughest brake contaminants like burned-on grease or thick rubber deposits. Less scrubbing is required after applying a chlorinated cleaner.
- Fast-acting: The strong chlorinated solvents go to work dissolving contaminants immediately after application. Cleaning time is reduced.
- Lower cost per volume: Chlorinated solvent cleaners provide excellent cleaning power at a lower cost per ounce compared to other cleaners. You use less to get the job done.
Cons of Chlorinated Brake Cleaners
- Toxic chemicals: Chlorinated solvents like methylene chloride are classified as probable human carcinogens. Exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, and lungs.
- Environmental impact: Chlorinated cleaners are VOC-regulated and the used product must be disposed of as hazardous waste. They contribute to air pollution and ozone layer depletion.
- Can damage brake components: The harsh chlorinated solvents may degrade rubber brake hoses and seals over time with frequent use. Some manufacturers advise against using them.
- Flammable: Chlorinated brake cleaners are extremely flammable. Care must be taken to avoid sparks or open flames when in use.
Examples of Chlorinated Cleaners
Popular chlorinated brake cleaners include
- CRC Brakleen,
- Permatex Brake Cleaner,
- 3M Chlorinated Brake Cleaner,
- Berryman B-12 Chemtool Chlorinated Brake Cleaner, and
- Gunk Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner.
Check the product label or SDS to confirm it contains chlorinated solvents.
Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaners
Now let’s compare chlorinated cleaners vs non-chlorinated brake cleaners. Non-chlorinated cleaners use alternative solvents without the harsh chlorinated chemicals. Here are the key features:
How They Work
Non-chlorinated brake cleaners use solvents like acetone, heptane, methanol, or ethanol to break down contaminants. While not as aggressive as chlorinated solvents, these alternatives still offer cleaning power. They dissolve grease and oil while being safer for users and the environment.
Pros of Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaners
- Safer for technicians: Non-chlorinated solvents are less irritating to skin, eyes, and lungs during cleaning sessions. They provide a reduced health risk.
- Environment friendly: Non-chlorinated cleaners have lower VOC emissions. Used products can be disposed of as non-hazardous waste instead of requiring hazardous material handling.
- Less damaging to brake parts: The milder solvents are less likely to degrade rubber brake components than harsh chlorinated chemicals. Safer for more frequent cleaning.
Cons of Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaners
- Less cleaning power: Alternatives like acetone don’t break down contaminants as aggressively as chlorinated solvents. More scrubbing may be required after application.
- Slower cleaning time: It takes longer for non-chlorinated solvents to penetrate and dissolve thick brake contaminants. More applications or soak time may be needed.
- Higher cost per volume: The eco-friendly alternatives cost more per ounce than chlorinated solvent cleaners in most cases.
Examples of Non-Chlorinated Cleaners
Popular non-chlorinated brake cleaners include
- CRC Eco Brake Cleaner,
- Permatex Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner,
- 3M Acetone Brake Cleaner,
- Berryman 0996 B-12 Chem Dip Non-Chlorinated, and
- Valvoline Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner.
Verify the product does not contain chlorinated solvents.
Chlorinated vs Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner: Direct Comparison
Now that we’ve reviewed both types individually, here is a direct comparison of how chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaners stack up:
| Metric | Chlorinated Brake Cleaner | Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner |
| Cleaning Power | Easily removes the toughest baked-on brake contaminants with less scrubbing required. | Dissolves oil and grease but may require more dwell time or physical scrubbing to fully clean. |
| Speed | The fast-acting chlorinated solvents go to work immediately dissolving thick build-up after application. | Works more slowly to break down contaminants compared to the rapid chlorinated solvents. |
| Safety | Chlorinated solvent vapors require proper PPE and ventilation controls to keep exposure within safe limits. | Safer for technicians during use due to reduced inhalation hazard and skin/eye irritation. |
| Environmental Impact | Chlorinated solvents contribute to air pollution and ozone depletion and must be disposed of as hazardous waste. | Non-chlorinated cleaners have lower VOC emissions and safe waste disposal methods. More eco-friendly. |
| Brake Component Compatibility | Regular use can start to break down rubber components, leading to leaks or other failures. | Less likely to degrade rubber hoses, seals, and o-rings over time. Safer for frequent cleaning. |
| Cost | Typically costs less per volume than the eco-friendly, non-chlorinated alternatives. | Usually carry a higher price tag due to the more expensive solvents. |
So, chlorinated brake cleaners offer unbeatable cleaning power but carry environmental and health drawbacks. Non-chlorinated cleaners are safer but need more physical effort to complete the cleaning job.
How to Choose Between the Two Options?
When deciding between chlorinated vs non-chlorinated brake cleaner for your vehicle, here are some factors to consider:
Step 1: Level of brake contaminant build-up
For thick, baked-on grease and oil deposits, a chlorinated cleaner may be the only way to effectively dissolve the stubborn gunk without heavy scrubbing. For light contaminant levels, a non-chlorinated cleaner can get the job done.
Step 2: Frequency of brake cleaning
If you only occasionally clean your brakes, the rubber components are less likely to degrade with limited chlorinated cleaner exposure. But for regular brake cleaning, a non-chlorinated option would be the safer choice long-term.
Step 3: Your safety gear and ventilation
Chlorinated cleaners can be used safely if you wear proper impermeable gloves, safety goggles, and an organic vapor respirator. You also need a well-ventilated area to prevent vapor build-up. Lacking the right gear or workspace, go non-chlorinated.
Step 4: Environmental impact concerns
Non-chlorinated cleaners are the clear eco-friendly choice if reducing your carbon footprint is important to you. Chlorinated solvent emissions contribute to air pollution and ozone depletion.
Step 5: Budget and cost considerations
The affordability and availability of chlorinated cleaners make them appealing from a cost-per-ounce standpoint. If keeping costs down is priority #1, stick with chlorinated options.
Consider your specific needs, constraints, and preferences to choose the best brake-cleaning approach for your vehicle maintenance regimen. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for any manufacturer guidelines on recommended cleaners for that model.
Best Practices When Using Brake Cleaners
To use any brake cleaner safely and effectively, follow these best practices:
- Test clean a small hidden area first to check for any reaction with a new cleaner before widespread use
- Wear impermeable gloves and eye protection – brake cleaner can irritate skin and eyes
- Use in a well-ventilated area and take care to avoid breathing vapors
- Allow cleaned parts to fully dry before reassembly – wet solvents damage friction properties
- Dispose of used dirty towels/rags properly to avoid combustion hazards from solvent-soaked materials
- Store brake cleaner properly closed and away from ignition sources – vapors are extremely flammable
- Never spray brake cleaners near hot vehicle parts or running electrical components – risk of fire
- Avoid overuse to prevent removing essential brake lubricants – moderation is key
Carefully following usage instructions and precautions keeps you safe when brake cleaning. Allowing parts to fully dry prevents recontamination or braking issues from solvent residue.
Similar Questions
Is It Okay To Use a Chlorinated Brake Cleaner On Rubber Hoses?
Most manufacturers advise against using chlorinated cleaners on rubber brake hoses and seals as the solvents can cause swelling, shrinkage, cracking, or brittleness over time. Non-chlorinated cleaners are rubber-safe alternatives.
How Often Should You Clean Brakes With Brake Cleaner?
As a preventive measure, you should spray brake cleaner on components like calipers, drums, rotors, and back plates every 1-2 months to control contaminant build-up. More frequent cleaning is needed if you notice squeaking, grabbing, or pulsation indicating contaminated brakes.
What Safety Gear Should You Use With Brake Cleaners?
To prevent harmful exposure when using cleaners, wear impermeable gloves, ANSI-approved eye protection, and an organic vapor respirator. Only use them in a well-ventilated area. Take precautions seriously to avoid health issues.
Can You Use Brake Cleaner On Painted Or Plastic Components?
No, avoid spraying brake cleaner on painted, plastic, or rubber surfaces as the solvents can damage and degrade those materials. Mask off any sensitive components before applying cleaner. Use it only on metal brake parts unless otherwise specified as safe.
Closing Thoughts
Keeping your brakes contaminant-free is key for optimal braking power and safety. Chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaners both dissolve and remove oil, grease, and other gunk from brake components. However, chlorinated cleaners provide unbeatable cleaning power with less scrubbing at the cost of higher toxicity and environmental impact. Non-chlorinated cleaners are safer for you and the planet yet require a bit more physical effort to fully clean parts. Consider your specific constraints, level of contaminants, cleaning frequency, and budget when choosing between the two. Let us know if you have any other brake cleaner questions in the comments! And thanks for reading. Safe travels!