Brake disc dust cover: replacement and selection

When and why it is necessary to replace brake disc dust cover

Manufacturers do not limit operational lifetime of the car part by exact terms. The brake disc dust cover is replaced at deformation, appearance of mechanical damages or corrosion traces on it, and in case of damaging or loosening of fastening elements.

Corrosion of the component can be the result of severe weather conditions and continuous car downtime. Cracks, shears and changing of dust cover shape, as well as loosening of its fastening are also the result of improper installation of the part itself of the brake disc. Moreover, these defects can occur as a result of impact, caused by careless driving or as a result of a road accident.

Signs of corrosion and small defects of the car part can be noticed during scheduled maintenance. If the dust cover is deformed or fastening elements are damaged, this will be indicated by noise in the wheel area. This can be metal clattering, screeching, scraping or knocking.

It is recommended to perform replacement of the component at a service station as performing of this procedure presupposes presence of a lifting device. In order to gain access to the dust cover you need to demount the wheel. Moreover, removal of the wheel hub or other parts can be required. During installation of a new brake disc dust cover, if necessary, you can replace the wheel hub bearing.

How to select brake disc dust cover

The components are divided into two-wheel and all-wheel drive. The products of the first type are more common. In accordance with the type, the dust covers differ from one another in sizes, construction, and quantity of fastening elements and distance between them.

Operating life of the parts greatly depends on their manufacturers. There are high-quality brake disc dust covers in the assortment of Van Wezel, JP Group, Metzger, Blic and others.

Buying these components you need to consider the brand, model, production year and drive type of the car. Moreover, you need to pay attention to whether there is ABS and what type of a brake disc is used in your car. For proper installation, such parameters as inner and outer diameter of the dust cover, side and axle of installation are significant. You also need to take dust covers production material into account. For example, the zinc-plated parts are most resistant to corrosion.