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How to Remove and Reduce Brake Dust Buildup on Car Paint

Brake dust is an inevitable and problematic by-product of braking your car. The dust particles stick to your car paint, become caked and stuck to the surface, and can really detract from the beauty of your ride. Fortunately, with a few strategies, you can both remove and reduce brake dust from your car's paint.

Removing Brake Dust Buildup

  • Choose the right soap. An automotive cleaner is best for removing brake dust from a car's paint. These are specifically formulated to tackle automotive dirt like brake dust.
  • Rinse the car. Start by giving your car a thorough rinse with a hose or pressure washer. This will help remove any loose dirt.
  • Create soap and water solution. Instead of directly spraying your soap, create a mixture of the soap and water and add it to a bucket or a spray bottle.
  • Apply the soap. First, spray the solution liberally onto the car's paint, then use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rub, work up a lather, and remove the dirt from the car.
  • Rinse your car. Once you have finished working up the soap, rinse the entire car with the hose or pressure washer to remove the dirt and the soap.
  • Dry the car. Finish by using a microfiber cloth to dry the car and remove any lingering residue. Be sure to give extra attention to areas where you may have used the pressure washer or any tight crevasses.

Reducing Brake Dust Buildup

By following the steps below, you can reduce the amount of brake dust on your car.

  • Park in the shade and away from smoking vehicles. Try to park in a shaded spot, avoid smoking vehicles, and stay away from heavily trafficked roads when possible.
  • Clean your wheels regularly. Washing your wheels regularly helps remove any older dust and prevents it from caking on.
  • Apply a wax coating. After washing and drying your car, apply a wax coating to protect your car and help keep the dust away.
  • Choose ceramic-coated brake pads. By swapping out your regular brake pads for ceramic-coated ones, you can reduce the amount of dust your brakes produce and keep your car cleaner.