Best Brake Cleaners of 2026

David Davis Avatar
David Davis
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Brake cleaners are a must-have for any vehicle owner or mechanic. These powerful solvents are specifically designed to remove dirt, dust, and grime from brake parts, ensuring optimal performance and safety. They come in various forms, including aerosol sprays, wipes, and liquids. Most brake cleaners contain chemicals such as acetone and toluene, which can dissolve stubborn brake dust and grease. It is important to choose a brake cleaner that is safe for use on various brake materials, such as rubber and plastic. Regular use of brake cleaners can extend the life of brake components, prevent brake squeal, and improve braking performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sprayway SW330 Brake Parts Cleaner 18.5 oz Cover #TOP 1
Sprayway SW330 Brake Parts Cleaner 18.5 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Denco #1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner Cover #TOP 2
Denco #1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner
ftb score rating icon 9.8
CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner Cover #TOP 3
CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Brake Cleaners

#TOP 1

Sprayway SW330 Brake Parts Cleaner 18.5 oz

SW330
18.5 oz
Sprayway SW330 Brake Parts Cleaner 18.5 oz Cover
Sprayway SW330 Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner, 18.5 oz

The Sprayway Brake Cleaner is designed to quickly clean your brake parts, saving you time with its fast-drying formula. It effectively eliminates brake fluid, grease, and oil, ensuring your brake components are free of contaminants that can affect performance. This cleaner works instantly to remove tough grime, making your maintenance tasks easier and more efficient. Plus, it leaves no residue behind, so you don't have to worry about leftover substances interfering with your brake system. With Sprayway Brake Cleaner, you get a reliable and convenient solution for keeping your brakes in top condition.

What We Like
Fast grease and dirt removal
Quick drying formula
Long-lasting can size
Strong spray pressure
No residue left behind
What We Don't Like
Spray cap somewhat flimsy
Strong chemical odor
#TOP 2

Denco #1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner

Denco #1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner Cover
Denco #1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner - 13 OZ Net Wt - 15.3 FL OZ - 12 to 88 Pack (12)

The Denco #1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner is a 15.3 FL OZ highly aggressive formula that works as an excellent multipurpose spray product. With low odor, low VOC, no cheap ingredients, it dries fast, has low runoff and cleanup. It comes in a high pressure can that lasts from full to empty.

What We Like
Excellent cleaning power
Better quality than store brands
Bulk purchase convenience
Competitive pricing
Low VOC formula
What We Don't Like
May affect surface finishes
#TOP 3

CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner

CRC
05084-12PK
Original Formula
CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner Cover
CRC (05084-12PK) Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner - 14 oz., (Pack of 12)

CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner is a low VOC formulation designed to remove brake fluid, grease, oil, and other contaminants from brake linings, pads, cylinders, drums, shoes, calipers, and clutch discs. This brake cleaner comes in a pack of 12, with each bottle containing 14 ounces of cleaner. Its non-chlorinated formula makes it safer for the environment and safer for use on more delicate brake components.

What We Like
Effective grease and dirt removal
Large, value-sized can
Easy spray and straw application
Non-chlorinated, residue-free formula
Ideal for DIY and professionals
What We Don't Like
Small bottle runs out quickly
#TOP 4

CRC Brakleen Brake Cleaner Spray

CRC
1003706
CRC Brakleen Brake Cleaner Spray Cover
CRC Brakleen 1003706 Brake Cleaner Spray Non-Flammable, 19 oz, [12 Pack]

CRC Brakleen Spray is essential for keeping your brake system clean and efficient. By using this cleaner, you enhance the performance and lifespan of your brakes, which is crucial for your safety on the road. It works perfectly on various brake components, including drums, linings, and calipers, ensuring thorough cleaning. The non-flammable formula provides peace of mind as it is safe for all brake parts. Plus, the fast-drying solvent effectively removes dirt and grime without leaving any residue, making maintenance quick and hassle-free.

What We Like
Non-flammable formula
Powerful cleaning performance
Quick-drying, no residue
Suitable for various uses
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Strong fumes
Limited effectiveness on some stains
#TOP 5

CRC 05088 Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner

CRC
05088
Clear Liquid
14 Oz
CRC 05088 Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner Cover
CRC 05088 Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner - 14 Wt Oz.

The CRC Brakleen Brake Cleaner is designed to help you easily remove grease and brake fluid from your vehicle’s brake parts, ensuring a cleaner and safer braking system. You can use it directly on your brakes without needing to take them apart, saving you time and effort. This cleaner is also environmentally friendly since it contains no harmful chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), making it a safer choice for you and the planet. Whether you’re working on ABS, disc, or drum brakes, this product provides a convenient and effective cleaning solution to keep your brake components in top condition.

What We Like
Effective grease and brake cleaning
Quick evaporation, minimal residue
Good price and value
Convenient can size
No lingering odor
What We Don't Like
Strong smell requires ventilation
#TOP 6

CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Cleaner - 1 Gal

CRC
5051
Original Formula
CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Cleaner - 1 Gal Cover
CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner - 50 State Formula, 1 Gal, 05051

The CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Cleaner is a powerful formula that removes brake fluid, oil, grease, and other contaminants from brake parts, linings, calipers, drums, and more. This brake cleaner comes in a 1 gallon bottle and is extremely flammable. It is not for sale in Catalina Island. It is ideal for boating enthusiasts who want to maintain their brake systems effectively.

What We Like
Strong cleaning power
Cost-effective bulk size
Reduces waste
Fast shipping
Long-lasting supply
What We Don't Like
Not used yet
#TOP 7

CRC Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner 14-oz

Hoiyen
05050
CRC Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner 14-oz Cover
Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner, 14-oz., Pack of 4

The CRC Brake Cleaner 4-Pack offers a convenient solution for maintaining your vehicle's braking system. Each 14-ounce can is designed to effectively clean brake parts without the use of harsh chlorine, making it safer for both you and the environment. This non-chlorinated formula helps remove dirt, grease, and grime, ensuring optimal performance of your brakes. With four cans in one pack, you have plenty of cleaner on hand for multiple jobs, saving you time and money on maintenance. This product is perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for reliable brake cleaning solutions.

What We Like
Powerful spray force
Thorough cleaning ability
Quick drying time
Full can usage
Mild odor
What We Don't Like
Runs out a bit quickly
Requires glove protection
#TOP 8

Denco 1930C Brake Cleaner

Denco 1930C Brake Cleaner Cover
Denco 1930C Brake Cleaner - 15.3 FL OZ - 13 OZ Net Wt - 12 Cans

Denco Brake Cleaner is designed for multiple uses, making it a versatile choice for your cleaning needs. Its strong formula works quickly to remove brake dust, grease, and grime, helping you maintain the performance of your brake system. You'll appreciate how fast it dries, leaving little residue behind, which means less cleanup for you. Plus, the reduced odor makes it easier to work with, creating a more pleasant environment. This cleaner is also safe for various brake components, including ABS, calipers, and rotors, ensuring you can trust it for all your brake line system parts.

What We Like
Affordable price
High quality cleaner
Works better than name brands
Consistent performance
Available in California
What We Don't Like
Delivery issue
#TOP 9

DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC. Johnsens Brake & Parts Cleaner - 14 OZ (12)

DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC. Johnsens Brake & Parts Cleaner - 14 OZ (12) Cover
DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC. Johnsens - 2417 Brake & Parts Cleaner - 14 OZ OTC Compliant (12)

The DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC. Johnsens Brake & Parts Cleaner comes in a pack of 12 cans, each containing 14 OZ of the brake cleaner. It is designed to remove oil, grease, brake fluid and contaminants quickly without leaving any residue. The cleaner is suitable for use on all ABS, disc and drum brakes.

What We Like
Good value for money
Effective cleaning performance
Fast drying, minimal residue
Convenient bulk packaging
Easy online purchase
What We Don't Like
Possible shipping damage
#TOP 10

Kogler Goliath Steel Brake Cleaner Spray 12-Pack

Kogler
KOGBC1CS
Black
14oz
Kogler Goliath Steel Brake Cleaner Spray 12-Pack Cover
Kogler Goliath Steel Brake and Parts Cleaner Spray Bundle - Professional Strength Aerosol Degreaser for Automotive Maintenance with Fast-Drying Formula for Commercial Fleet Service - 12 Pack - 14oz

The Kogler Goliath Brake Cleaner is designed to quickly remove grease, oil, and dirt from brake parts and other automotive components, making your maintenance work easier and faster. Its fast-drying formula evaporates quickly without leaving any residue, so you save time and avoid extra cleaning steps. This cleaner works well on various parts like brake calipers and rotors, offering you a versatile solution for many vehicle maintenance tasks. Built for professional use, it delivers consistent, strong cleaning power even in tough conditions, ensuring you get reliable results every time you use it.

What We Like
Powerful cleaning
Fast-drying formula
Multi-purpose use
Commercial-grade reliability
What We Don't Like
evaporates quickly
product amount discrepancy
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are brake cleaners worth it?

Yes, brake cleaners are worth it. They are effective in removing road debris, grease, and dust from the brakes, which can improve braking performance by allowing the brake pad to grip the brake disc properly.

2. Is it OK to spray brake cleaner on pads?

Yes, it is safe to spray brake cleaner on calipers, pads, and rotors. However, it is important to use caution and avoid spraying it around like air freshener.

3. What can I use to clean my brake system?

For cleaning the brake system, it is recommended to use an effective brake cleaner. WD-40 Automotive Specialist Brake & Parts Cleaner is a good option that can be used on brake drums, pads, lines, discs, and clutch parts.

4. Why is brake cleaner illegal?

Certain chlorinated brake cleaners have been banned in California due to their harmful side effects, including headaches, nausea, coordination loss, kidney and liver damage, and increased risk of cancer. This is to reduce VOC emissions and protect public health.

5. Can I use brake cleaner without removing the wheel?

While wheel cleaning products can be used in combination with some measures, a thorough maintenance cleaning of the brakes requires removing the tires. Without removing the wheel, it is not possible to clean the brakes effectively.

6. What not to use brake cleaner on?

Brake cleaner should not be used on plastic, rubber, electronics, or painted parts. It can dissolve these components, so it should only be used on brake components or other bare metal components that need cleaning.

7. Are there any risks of using brake cleaner?

Short-term exposure to low levels of Tetrachloroethylene vapor, found in some brake cleaners, can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, mouth, throat, and respiratory tract. It may also lead to symptoms like dizziness, headache, sleepiness, confusion, and skin irritation upon direct contact.

8. Can I use rubbing alcohol instead of brake cleaner?

While rubbing alcohol can be used to clean some dirt from brake dust and brake fluid, it is recommended to use specialist brake cleaners for cleaning disc brakes. Brake cleaners are designed to effectively clean important parts of the braking system without leaving any residue.

9. Can you use Windex as brake cleaner?

No, Windex should not be used as a brake cleaner. It is important to use specialist cleaners that are residue-free and specifically designed to clean the braking system components effectively.

Editor's Notes

During our brake cleaner research, we found 24 brake cleaner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 133,486 customer reviews through our big data system to write the brake cleaners list. We found that most customers choose brake cleaners with an average price of $32.68.

The brake cleaners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of brake cleaners, including Sprayway, DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC., CRC, Hoiyen, Kogler. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
David Davis Avatar

David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.