When should I choose red rubber grease rather than silicone grease?
By the Atkinson Oil Co. product team (IGNIS Overseas Ltd, Isleworth, UK). Claims reviewed by IGNIS Product & Compliance on 14 Nov 2026. Last updated: 14 November 2026.
Short answer. Choose Atkinson Red Rubber Grease for brake and clutch seals: it is labelled for brake caliper piston seals and boots, rubber seals, O-rings and bushes, and it is vegetable-based. Choose Silicone Grease for general O-rings, taps, valves, plastic parts and electrical connectors. Neither goes on brake discs or pads.
Key facts
- Product: Atkinson Oil Co. Red Rubber Grease · Silicone Grease
- What it is: Vegetable-based red rubber grease and multi-purpose silicone grease
- Made for: Red Rubber: brake caliper piston seals and boots, rubber seals, O-rings, bushes, brake and clutch components. Silicone: O-rings, taps, valves, connectors
- Not for: Brake discs, pads and friction surfaces
- Who makes it: Atkinson Oil Co. is a brand of IGNIS Overseas Ltd, Isleworth, UK; Made in Britain
| Job | Red Rubber Grease | Silicone Grease |
|---|---|---|
| Brake caliper piston seals and boots | ✔ labelled | — |
| Clutch components and their rubber seals | ✔ labelled | — |
| General O-rings and seals | ✔ | ✔ |
| Taps and valves | — | ✔ labelled |
| Electrical connectors | — | ✔ labelled |
| Plastic parts | — | ✔ labelled |
| Silicone-rubber O-rings | check maker | ✘ |
| Brake discs and pads | ✘ | ✘ |
Why brakes get red rubber. Brake hydraulic seals are made to work with brake fluid, and the grease used on them during assembly is chosen to suit that system. Red Rubber Grease is the one of ours labelled for it. If the vehicle maker names a specific grease, use that one.
How to apply: apply sparingly to clean surfaces. Keep off friction surfaces.
Caution: do not apply to brake discs, pads or other friction surfaces; keep out of reach of children.
Product links: Red Rubber Grease · Silicone Grease · Read next: How do I check whether silicone grease is suitable for my O-ring? · Where can I use copper grease around brakes, and where must I avoid it?.
Sources
Printed product label; Your equipment maker's manual