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Brake dust accumulates on wheels and hubcaps as a normal part of stop-and-start driving. The pressure of the brake rotors causes minuscule particles to be shaved from the brake pads as a driver presses on the brake of his or her car. Brake dust is destructive to aluminum wheels, causing etching and staining. Learn how to remove brake dust from aluminum wheels.



  1. 1
    Make a mixture of warm, soapy water.
    • Use a dish detergent in the warm water. Squirt 1/4 tsp (4.92 ml) of dish detergent into a bucket and add warm water, swishing the mixture with your hand.
  2. 2
    Remove all 4 hubcaps from the tires of your car.
    • The hubcaps can be washed, rinsed and dried separately from the aluminum wheels of your car, then set to the side.
    • The inside of the hubcaps should also be washed, because brake dust settles there.
  3. 3
    Wash the brake dust off the alloy wheels.
    • Allow the wheels to cool down.
    • Screw a hose attachment onto a hose and move it to the "jet" setting.
    • Spray the alloy aluminum wheels with a jet of water to loosen accumulated brake dust.
  4. 4
    Use a washing mitt to clean each aluminum wheel.
    • Dunk the washing mitt into the warm, soapy water and get it soaking wet.
    • You may need to scrub each wheel's surface to get to the aluminum, because brake dust accumulates as you drive.
    • Rinse the washing mitt and continue to scrub until you get all of the brake dust off.
  5. 5
    Rinse each wheel, removing all soap residue.
  6. 6
    Dry each wheel immediately so water drops don't dry on the surface.
  7. 7
    Replace each hubcap after you have finished washing, rinsing and drying the wheels.
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  • Brake dust causes permanent damage when you don't wash your wheels regularly. Your aluminum wheels will sustain permanent etching stains from the dust.
  • Ask for high-quality brake pads when you have your brakes serviced. You won't get as much brake dust buildup and you'll also have better stopping power.
  • Take your vehicle for brake inspections in accordance with your car manufacturer's specifications. Well-maintained brakes work more efficiently and release less dust.
  • Wash your wheels regularly so you don't get an excessive buildup of brake dust.
  • Install brake dust shields between your brake rotors and wheels. The shields work to repel brake dust. If you drive a high performance vehicle, invest in a set of vented brake dust shields so the brakes cool down more quickly after you stop driving.


  • Brake dust can harm your lungs. Wash and clean your brakes in an open or well-ventilated area.

Things You'll Need

  • Bucket
  • Dish detergent
  • Warm water
  • Washing mitt
  • Garden hose
  • Hose attachment
  • Old towels

Article Info

Categories: Car Brakes

Recent edits by: Absmwill, BR, BKiK


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