If someone came to you selling a product with an incredible range of uses made from a secret formula first tested on missiles, you might think it's BS. However, this progression represents WD-40's actual origin.
๐ The Core Development
WD-40 was created by the Rocket Chemical Company, which was founded in 1953 by Norm Larsen. Three Rocket Chemical staff members achieved the product's formula after 40 trials, which is naturally where the name WD-40 comes from. What goes into the formula is considered a trade secret, like the recipe for Coca-Cola, Kentucky Fried Chicken, or the Tesla FSD data snagged by Dutch regulators . Furthermore, trade secrets don't expire the way patents do. Aerospace contractor Convair initially used WD-40 on its Atlas Missile (America's first successful intercontinental ballistic missile) to protect against rust and corrosion.
When discussing WD-40, it's important to recognize the range of stories that aren't true. Below are six WD-40 myths that continue circulating, some of which are downright baffling.
๐ Background & Sector Context
If you've been reading Jalopnik recently, you'll know this one isn't true. Right off the bat, you shouldn't use it on your wiper blades ; it's terrible for squeaky engine belts , and it can lead to some entertaining damage if you replace your engine oil with the stuff .
Part of the misconception has to do with WD-40's lubricating properties. The company itself says that the Multi-Use Product is "a unique, special blend of lubricants" that works to keep your car's door hinges and hood latches moving free and easy. It's just that the experts don't always agree. Yes, WD-40 may help in the short term, but it will quickly evaporate and, in some cases, clean off and dry up the original factory grease.
๐ Industry & Real-World Impact
On the other hand, WD-40 is still too slippery to spray on your brake components, and that's no matter how squeaky they sound. Moreover, that noise could be telling you it's time for new brakes, anyway.
โก Prefer Visual Stories on Mobile?
Experience this news piece in an interactive 5-slide visual format crafted for mobile devices & Google Discover.
๐ฎ Strategic Outlook & What Lies Ahead
Just remember that we're talking about WD-40's traditional Multi-Use Product here. The company has a full family of WD-40 products that can pick up the slack where the regular stuff isn't up for the job. To properly lubricate parts long-term, like those door hinges, for instance, the company makes WD-40 White Lithium Grease.
Since WD-40 has some lubricating properties, some might think it could do the same for your joints. While many know it cannot, we'll still explore where this ridiculous misconception can stem from.
