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A little brake grease in the right places stops squeals and keeps parts sliding freely. In the wrong place, such as on the pads or rotors, it can make your brakes fail to grip. Here is a simple guide.
Use the right type of grease
- Use a grease made specifically for brakes, such as a high-temperature synthetic, silicone or ceramic brake lubricant.
- For caliper slide pins, use a grease that is safe for rubber boots. Regular petroleum grease can make rubber swell, which can cause pins to stick.
- Many quality pad sets include a small packet of brake lubricant, such as Power Stop and Akebono sets.
See brake lubricants on Amazon
Where to use it (a thin layer)
- Caliper slide pins: clean the old grease off, then apply a thin, even coat.
- Pad contact points: the "ears" of the pad where it sits in the clips or bracket.
- Abutment clips: where the pad slides, if your pad maker recommends it.
- Back of the pad or shim: only where the caliper piston or fingers touch, and only if the pad instructions allow it. Some shims are designed to be used dry.
Where it must never go
- The friction surface of the brake pads
- The braking surface of the rotors
- Inside the caliper piston bore or on the piston seal
If grease or brake fluid gets on the pad friction material, the pads usually need to be replaced. Clean contaminated rotors with brake cleaner.
Good habits
- Clean parts with a wire brush before greasing.
- Use less than you think; a thin layer is enough.
- Wipe off any excess so it does not attract dirt.
- Wear gloves, so you do not transfer grease to the pads by hand.
FAQ
Why are my brakes squealing after I greased them?
Squeal is often caused by missing grease on contact points, worn hardware, rotors in poor condition, or skipped bed-in. Check each one. See our bed-in guide.
Can I use anti-seize on slide pins?
Not usually. Use a grease designed for slide pins that is safe for rubber boots, unless your vehicle maker says otherwise.
Related: DIY brake job tools checklist.
Safety note: brakes are safety parts. If you are not sure how to do the job, have a qualified mechanic do it.