Parts Cleaner
Lucas Oil 11115-12 Multi-Purpose Parts Cleaner & Degreaser Case (12 x 16oz Aerosol)
Simpson Racing Equipment MLPR1G Molecule Protector Racing Suit Cleaner 1 Gallon
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
What Is a Parts Cleaner and Why Does It Matter?
Whether you're rebuilding a carburetor, replacing brake pads, or prepping a surface for paint, a quality parts cleaner is one of the most essential tools in any garage or workshop. Parts cleaners are specially formulated solvents and degreasers designed to dissolve grease, oil, carbon buildup, wax, dirt, and other contaminants from metal components, engine parts, brake hardware, and more — all without leaving behind residue that could compromise performance or adhesion.
Skipping this step is a shortcut that often leads to bigger problems down the road. Contaminated brake rotors can reduce stopping power. Oily engine surfaces can cause gaskets to fail prematurely. Greasy metal won't accept primer or paint evenly. A fast-acting parts cleaner removes these risks in minutes, making it a small investment that protects the integrity of every repair you do.
Types of Parts Cleaners
- Aerosol spray cleaners — Fast, convenient, and ideal for targeted application on brake components, electrical contacts, and small parts. They evaporate quickly and leave no residue.
- Solvent-based degreasers — Powerful formulas designed for heavy-duty cleaning of engines, transmissions, and machine shop components where grease and oil buildup is severe.
- Water-based cleaners — A more environmentally friendly option for general workshop cleanup, suitable for use in parts washers or via spray application.
Key Considerations When Shopping for Parts Cleaner
Not all parts cleaners are created equal. When selecting a product, consider the type of contaminant you're dealing with — brake dust and light oil call for a different formula than heavy carbon deposits or industrial grease. Also check for compatibility with plastics and rubber if you're cleaning components near seals or hoses. Finally, pay attention to drying time: fast-evaporating aerosols are ideal for brake work, while longer-contact degreasers are better suited to soaking heavily fouled parts.
Top Parts Cleaner Brands
High Teck is a respected name in professional automotive refinishing and surface preparation, offering parts cleaners formulated for demanding paint prep and metal cleaning applications where surface contamination simply cannot be tolerated.
CRC Industries is one of the most widely trusted names in automotive chemical products, with a long track record of producing high-performance aerosol cleaners — including their popular brake cleaner and parts cleaner sprays — relied upon by professional technicians everywhere.
Motorcraft, Ford's own factory parts and chemicals brand, brings OEM-grade standards to parts cleaning, making their products a natural choice for Ford and Lincoln owners who want manufacturer-approved solutions for brake and engine component maintenance.
Blaster has built a devoted following among DIY mechanics and professionals alike, known for heavy-duty penetrating and cleaning formulas that tackle the toughest grease, rust, and grime in even the most punishing conditions.
3X Chemistry brings professional-grade chemical formulations to the automotive cleaning space, with products engineered for efficiency and surface safety across a range of workshop and detailing applications.