If left uncleaned, it can etch into the protective coating on an alloy wheel, making the wheel vulnerable to corrosion and cause permanent damage. Metallic brake dust is a caustic and abrasive material. Here’s why you wouldn’t want to leave brake dust on your wheels for too long: 1. When your brakes generate brake dust, these metal particles end up on the wheel, the brake caliper or brake drum, and other nearby suspension components to cause a variety of problems. The modern brake pad typically contains some amount of metallic fibers to aid with friction. How big a deal is this? Why Is Cleaning Brake Dust Important? However, it does mean that your drum needs to be cleaned of excessive brake dust periodically. This means that aesthetically, you won’t face as big an issue. If your car uses alloy wheels, the dark brake dust will be very visible and contrast clearly against the wheel hub.ĭrum brakes are enclosed, so the brake drum contains most of the brake dust buildup. Their open design means brake dust collects directly (and visibly) on the wheel. However, this friction also creates brake debris that builds up over time.ĭisc brakes are the worst offenders when it comes to brake dust grime. These clamping or pushing motions create friction, which in turn, stops your vehicle wheels. Your brake pads clamp onto the brake rotor (in a disc brake), or your brake shoes push against the brake drum (in drum brakes). When you depress the brake pedal, one of two things happen: What causes it in the first place? What Creates Brake Dust? It’s important to note that a buildup of these metallic particles is unavoidable, irrespective of the type of braking system your car has - whether it be a disc brake setup or drum brakes. Other brake pad materials may have higher metal particles for increased longevity and produce reddish dust. The color of this dust depends on the pad material in your brakes.įor example, most European cars usually have very dark brake dust, produced by brake pad materials that prioritize quietness and performance. It’s a combination of iron particles, carbon residue, and friction material that makes your wheel look like it’s saturated with road grime. Brake dust is a dark residue that collects on your wheels.
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