How Do I Stop Alloy Wheels Getting Covered In Brake Dust?

[Guest]

I find it really annoying how after I've cleaned my alloy wheels, they get covered in brake dust really quickly? I've still got my original discs and pads. will I get rid of this problem if I upgrade my disc and pads? or is there any products out there which I can apply ontp my wheels?

[Boro Sera]

Short answer.........No. It can't be avoided.

However there are certain brake pads that produce 'less blatantly visible' dust than the normal black dust. EBC Greenstuff is one option.

If on the other hand you're getting excessive amounts of dust from the pads then there could be a problem with the braking system such as a sticking caliper. This would manifest itself with uneven pad wear.

[cfc1]

You can get what is known as Dust Sheilds....

I have seen shields similar to the picture above.. they are made from a strong rubber like material and can be cut to size to suit your wheel diameter, the centres are Multi-fit for most 4 and 5 stud fitments. I have no idea on the cost, but from what i have seen they do a reasonable job... not brilliant, but they certainly cut down the amount of dust that gets on the outside of the wheels.

Perhaps a more thourgh search of the internet will find them. (I have mostly seen them on BMW's)

[hoho15]

there is certin break pads which give off less break dust but i guess u have to do what i do clean them everyday!....

white multispokes is hell!!! also ive noticed that after u washed your car when the pads are wet they give off more aswell

[TheNissanMan]

If you wax your alloys as well as your car it will reduce the amount of dust that sticks...

[iLLestJT]

Have hub caps, cheap to replace for brand new ones.

[Richard K]

:) Let's get the sarcastic remarks out the way:

Drive slower = brake less

Use Engine Braking instead of Brakes (clutch cost more than Pads though).

Now for My slightly more sensible thoughts.

1) I contemplated dust guards a few years back but there was an issue mentioned about brake cooling restrictions. even though that would only be a real problem during spirited driving, track days etc, I decided against it.

2) Waxing wheels using something like Surprise surprise'Wheel Wax' really helps. I took wheels off, cleaned & waxed totally twice in a year, then waxed the outer side of wheel every other time I washed car. it did help cos then all I needed was hot water with a bit of washing up liquid. Voila!

3) I changed to EBC Green stuff and noticed a reduction in the dust.

-Covers are the cheapest & most convienient option.

-but I'd use the combination of wheel wax and pad change which should help without affecting performance, If that doesn't work consider covers as last resort.

Or Do like I've done, a set of dark coloured wheel. Mine now change from gloss black (aka:- clean) to Anthracite/Grey (aka: Dirty little thing)

Good luck Sorting it out :)

Richard K

P.S. my first remarks were just predictable jokes. As A few others know I always do :D