Stainless Steel vs. Regular Brake Lines: Which Brake Line Material is Right for Your Build?

Whatever vehicle you own, your braking system is the most important safety system. If you are replacing your brake lines, you may be wondering whether to stick with factory specifications or upgrade to a premium aftermarket option like we offer at LinesToGo. Read on as we explain the differences between the two and why opting for a premium set of replacement brake lines is not only the safer option but can also save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Understanding Regular OEM Brake Lines

Most vehicles come from the factory with standard steel brake lines or sometimes rubber lines containing internal reinforcement (like nylon or steel braiding). These OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) lines are functional and inexpensive to produce, but they have a major weakness: corrosion.

Standard steel lines are highly susceptible to rust, especially if you live in an area where salt is used on the roads during winter. Over time, moisture and road chemicals eat away at the metal. This leads to pinhole leaks or, in the worst-case scenario, a complete line failure. Rubber components are also very susceptible to the elements and are known to dry out, harden, or crack or separate due to age and heat.

The Most Common Brake Line Materials

Before choosing a replacement, it is helpful to know what the common options are:

• Standard Steel: Common on older cars; very prone to rusting.
• Poly-Coated Steel: A step up from plain steel, featuring a plastic coating to delay corrosion.
• Copper-Nickel (Cunifer or NiCopp): Very easy to bend and highly resistant to rust, but softer and more prone to accidental damage or kinking.

Why LinesToGo Offers A Superior Solution

When it comes to high-quality replacements, LinesToGo (LTG) offers options that outperform common parts-store brake lines. We specialize in CNC-bent, vehicle-specific lines that take the guesswork out of installation. This is what makes our Galfan® coated and 304L stainless steel lines different:

Galfan® Coated Steel

For those looking for an affordable but durable upgrade, LinesToGo brake lines are made with Galfan® coated steel. Galfan® is a specialized coating made of zinc, aluminum, and mischmetal. This coating provides significantly better rust protection than standard OEM steel or a regular galvanized coating. It is tough, durable, and designed to withstand harsh road conditions for years.

304L Stainless Steel

If you want the ultimate protection, 304L stainless steel is the gold standard. Unlike regular steel, stainless steel contains chromium, which prevents rust from ever forming. Upgrading to 304L stainless steel means you are likely replacing your brake lines for the last time

Benefits Of Choosing LinesToGo

Choosing LinesToGo for your build offers several advantages over OE and other aftermarket options:

• Superior Rust Protection: Whether you choose Galfan® or Stainless, your lines are built to outlast the vehicle.
• Durability: These lines are rigid and hard to accidentally bend or damage during installation or while off-roading.
• Perfect Fit: Every line is CNC-bent to match the original factory specifications, ensuring a seamless install.
• Versatility: These solutions are ideal for all types of vehicles, from daily drivers and heavy-duty trucks to classic muscle cars.

Choose The Best Brake Lines For Your Vehicle

LinesToGo brake lines are designed to fit exactly like the factory items. They have OE end forms and fittings and are pre-bent - ready to install. Our lines are constructed from Galfan® coated steel or 304L stainless steel tubing, providing superior corrosion and rust resistance.

We have a wide selection of brake lines for all makes and models. Whether you have a more popular vehicle like a Honda, Toyota, Ford, or Jeep, or a less common older car like a Pontiac, Mercury, or Buick, we have got you covered.

We offer free, next-day shipping and a lifetime warranty on all of our stainless-steel lines, and a 1-year warranty on all of our Galfan® lines. Contact us with questions or order online to get your premium quality replacement brake lines today!