Where should WD40 not be sprayed?
3 Answers
WD40 should not be sprayed on rubber, plastic, or wax areas of a car. WD40, known as a moisture-displacing and rust-preventing lubricant, has penetrating properties that can thoroughly remove oil stains, dirt, dust, and other residues adhering to metal surfaces, without damaging materials like paint, fiber, plastic, or nylon on metal surfaces. The functions of WD40 include: 1. Completely removing stubborn stains adhered to metal surfaces; 2. Removing moisture and water, quickly drying electronic systems to prevent short circuits caused by humidity; 3. Removing rust that binds metals, freeing stuck, frozen, or rusted metal parts; 4. Containing anti-corrosion components to protect metal surfaces from moisture and other corrosive factors.
As a seasoned driver, I must remind everyone to stay away from spraying WD-40 on the brake system when repairing cars. It creates an oily film between the brake pads and discs, significantly reducing friction. I've seen many cases where people couldn't stop their cars in time after using it, nearly causing accidents. Similarly, avoid electrical components like plugs or wiring connectors—WD-40 liquid can seep in, causing short circuits or corroding wires, which increases repair costs. Also, steer clear of high-temperature areas like near the exhaust pipe, as WD-40 is flammable and can smoke or even catch fire when heated. Don't assume it's a universal solution—use specialized lubricants for brakes and dry sprays for electrical parts for safety. I usually reserve it for hinges, so never spray it carelessly just to save time.
I've worked on many cars and found that WD-40 shouldn't be used on plastic and rubber components. For example, interior door handles or seals – its chemical composition gradually softens the material, leading to cracking and deformation over time. I also tried spraying it into lock cylinders, only for dust to stick inside and jam them shut. I recommend using professional lubricants like silicone-based products as alternatives, especially for plastic parts where water-free cleaners should be used. For locks, graphite powder is more reliable as it doesn't leave stains. After applying WD-40, surfaces become greasy and may attract dust, causing more issues. Remember, this product performs poorly in humid environments, and critical areas like window tracks require careful handling.
