How to Clean Glaze Off of Brake Rotors

Your brake rotors are a very important part of the braking system since the discs rely on a clean and smooth rotor surface when engaged to stop the vehicle quickly. Glaze on the rotor surface can surely deter your stopping ability. If any glaze has accumulated on your rotors you want to get rid of it right away. Just using a rag trying to wipe it down will not work since the glaze develops a hard surface. This article will show you how to easily remove it!

Things You'll Need

• 1500 and 2000 grit sandpaper
• Small flexible sanding block
• Brake Kleen spray can
• Clean cloth rags
• Safety Glasses

1. Remove the wheel from the car

Remove the wheel from the car and be sure that you use jack stands to hold up the vehicle weight. You do not have to remove the rotor to remove the glaze.

2. Wrap the 1500 grit sandpaper tightly over the sanding block

Wrap the 1500 grit sandpaper tightly over the sanding block.

3. Lightly and evenly sand the rotor surface turning the rotor

Lightly and evenly sand the rotor surface turning the rotor as you go along to be sure that you along so you are sure to sand the entire disc. Do not use much pressure here to avoid scratching the surface. Much better to go over the same area numerous times rather than sand hard all at once.

4. Wipe off the rotor surface with a clean cotton rag

Wipe off the rotor surface with a clean cotton rag to remove any sanding dust . Now using the 2000 grit sandpaper wrapped around the sanding block sand again to insure that you will have a very smooth surface on the rotor. The last thing you want is to scratch the rotor surface with the sand paper and sanding is best accomplished using a flat block rather than just using your fingers behind the paper to avoid uneven sanding.

5. Put your safety Glasses on to protect your eyes

Put your safety Glasses on to protect your eyes from splash back and spray the rotor surface with Brake Kleen. The cleaner is meant to air dry on it's own so it will not be necessary to wipe it off.

6. Check that all the glaze has been removed visually

Check that all the glaze has been removed visually and also by feeling with your hand. The rotor should be smooth and glaze free. If any glaze remains continue sanding and spraying with Brake Kleen until you are satisfied. All areas of glaze need to be removed to insure smooth braking.

Tips and Warnings

-After touching the rotor with your hands spray with Brake Kleen to insure there is no oil residues left behind. -If after inspection of your rotors you discover scratches or what is called "rail road" tracks on the surface you should consider having the rotors resurfaced by a professional shop or possible replacement may be required if resurfacing is not an option.

Always wear safety glasses when spraying cleaning chemicals and be sure that vehicle is being help up properly with jack stands before doing any work!