Brake service and brake cleaning are inseparable. Grease, brake fluid, and brake dust contamination on rotor faces and friction surfaces directly affects brake performance — and any technician who has had a customer come back with squealing brakes after a service where brake dust was left on the rotor understands why a proper brake clean is not optional. The question is not whether to use brake cleaner — it is which formulation is appropriate for your shop’s regulatory environment.
Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner from Polishing Systems Inc is a VOC-compliant, non-chlorinated aerosol solvent cleaner for brake components. The non-chlorinated formulation meets strict state VOC regulations (including California ARB standards) that prohibit the chlorinated solvents (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) found in older brake cleaner formulations. The trade-off is slightly different evaporation behavior — non-chlorinated cleaners are flammable and require ventilation — but the solvent performance on brake grease, hydraulic fluid, and brake dust is comparable.
What Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner Is
This is an aerosol-packaged solvent degreaser in a non-chlorinated formulation (typically acetone, heptane, or similar non-chlorinated solvents). It dissolves brake grease, hydraulic fluid, motor oil, and brake dust contamination on contact and evaporates completely without residue. VOC-compliant for use in states including California, where chlorinated brake cleaners are prohibited.
Key Features and Why They Matter
- VOC-compliant / non-chlorinated — meets California ARB and other state VOC regulations. The appropriate choice for shops in regulated states where chlorinated solvent cleaners are prohibited.
- Fast evaporation, no residue — flashes off completely from brake surfaces, leaving parts dry and ready for inspection or reassembly immediately after cleaning.
- Powerful solvent degreasing — dissolves grease, hydraulic fluid, oil, and brake dust effectively on brake rotors, calipers, drums, and hardware.
- Aerosol format — pressurized spray reaches into caliper pistons, rotor vents, and tight brake hardware areas without disassembly.
Critical Safety — Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner Is Flammable
Non-chlorinated brake cleaners are flammable. Unlike chlorinated formulations (which are non-flammable), non-chlorinated solvents present a fire and explosion risk:
- Never use near open flames, sparks, welding equipment, or running engines
- Use only in well-ventilated areas — vapor accumulation in enclosed spaces is a fire hazard
- Wear chemical splash goggles and solvent-resistant gloves
- Keep away from heat sources during use and storage
- Allow complete flash-off and ventilation before welding or using any ignition source in the work area
- Do not use on hot rotors — allow brakes to cool before cleaning
Who Uses This
Automotive repair shops, brake service operations, and detail technicians in California and other VOC-regulated states who cannot legally use chlorinated brake cleaners. Mobile brake technicians. Fleet mechanics performing brake inspections and service. Any technician who needs compliant brake cleaning chemistry.
How to Use
- Allow brakes and components to cool completely before cleaning.
- Position the vehicle in a well-ventilated area, away from any ignition sources.
- Spray directly onto brake rotor faces, calipers, drums, and hardware from 6-10 inches away.
- Allow solvent to dissolve and flush contamination off the surface.
- Allow complete evaporation before reassembly or operation — typically 30-60 seconds under normal temperature and airflow conditions.
Why Buy Non-Chlorinated vs. Chlorinated Brake Cleaner
In many states, the choice is not optional — chlorinated brake cleaners are prohibited by air quality regulations. Even in unregulated states, non-chlorinated formulations are increasingly preferred for their reduced long-term health and environmental impact. The cleaning performance on brake grease and dust is comparable; the regulatory compliance is the deciding factor for most professional shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaner?
Chlorinated brake cleaners use solvents like perchloroethylene, which are non-flammable but present health and environmental concerns and are prohibited by VOC regulations in many states. Non-chlorinated versions use alternative solvents (acetone, heptane, etc.) that are effective degreasers but are flammable — requiring different safety handling. This is the VOC-compliant, non-chlorinated option.
Can I use this on ABS sensor rings or plastic brake components?
Test on a hidden area first. Strong solvent cleaners can affect certain plastics and rubber components. Direct contact with ABS sensor harnesses, rubber brake seals, and plastic dust boots should be minimized. Spray primarily onto metal brake components.
Is this product approved for California use?
This non-chlorinated formulation is designed to meet California ARB VOC compliance standards. Verify the specific product’s CARB compliance certification before purchase for California commercial use.
How does this compare to aerosol degreasers for engine work?
Brake cleaner is formulated for fast, residue-free flash-off on brake components — a different application than engine degreasers, which are designed for emulsification and rinse-off with water. For engine bay degreasing, see the exterior chemicals category. Use brake cleaner specifically for brake components, not as a general-purpose degreaser.
