The Hidden Risks of Brake Cleaner Overuse in Auto Shops
In December 2024, the EPA banned the use of tetrachloroethylene (TCE), a common component of brake cleaner, for use in commercial products in the USA. Auto shops are now seeking safer alternatives.
“After decades of workers and communities across the country sounding the alarm about the devastating health effects they’ve experienced, we are glad to see that EPA has finally banned these dangerous chemicals.”
– Liz Hitchcock, Director of Federal Policy, Toxic-Free Future (as published in The Guardian)
Throughout 2024, CHAOS Moto, an automotive supply company based in Arizona, interviewed mechanics across North America to gain insight into shop practices...
Health Risks of Brake Cleaner Exposure
- Skin exposure can cause irritation, dermatitis, or chemical burns.
- Inhalation may lead to respiratory issues, dizziness, or neurological damage.
- Long-term exposure is linked to cancer, kidney/liver damage, and nerve disorders.
What to Use Instead of Brake Cleaner for Wheel Weight Preparation:
Tire technicians reported using brake cleaner to prep wheels before applying stick-on wheel weights.
“In 2004, the largest tire company in the world helped us develop a product to replace brake cleaner for adhering wheel weights to aluminum wheels. Now more than ever, we realize this safer solution is critical due to the recent ban of TCE in brake cleaner.”
– Richard Thomas, Co-Founder, CHAOS Moto
Introducing a Safer Solution: Prep N Stick
CHAOS Moto developed Prep N Stick, a non-toxic solution specifically designed for wheel preparation before installing stick-on weights...
Benefits of Prep N Stick:
- Non-toxic formula – Eliminates exposure to harmful brake cleaner chemicals.
- Safe for all wheel finishes – Protects against damage to aluminum, painted, or coated wheels.
- Increases wheel weight adhesion – Preps surfaces for maximum stick-on weight retention.
Prep N Stick Free Trial Program
CHAOS Moto has been sending free samples of this product to shops across the USA to promote a safer option for tire balancing.
Interested? Request a free sample here.
Further Reading
The Dangers of Long-Term Brake Cleaner Exposure
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Damage: Memory loss, confusion, dizziness, and chronic nerve damage.
- Liver & Kidney Damage: TCE toxicity can impact organ function over time.
- Respiratory Issues: Long-term inhalation may lead to chronic bronchitis or fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Carcinogenic Risks: TCE is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen by the IARC.
- Skin Damage: Chemical burns, chronic dryness, and dermatitis from frequent contact.
- Toxic Gas Formation: When heated, TCE can produce phosgene gas, a highly toxic compound.
Protect Yourself & Your Shop
To reduce health risks, mechanics should:
- Wear protective gloves and masks when handling chemical cleaners.
- Ensure proper ventilation in workspaces to minimize inhalation risks.
- Switch to safer alternatives like Prep N Stick.