p 1 p n and performs a rust removal function if sensor signal or sensor signals p 1 p n satisfy a predefined activation condition if the activation condition is satisfied brake actuator 5 is activated by control unit 1 via a control line 4 and automatically builds up a predefined brake pressure on wheel brakes 13 so that brake shoes 11 are applied to brake disks 12 and they simply abrade away the rust the brake pressure is maintained for a predefined period of time optionally fewer or more sensors s 1 s n may also be provided and accordingly fewer or more vehicle parameters may be monitored sensor signals p 1 p n read in from control unit 1 are for example an ignition cycle counter content a brake pressure such as for example the pre pressure stipulated by the driver an engine torque an accelerator pedal position a wheel speed or vehicle speed or a brake operating state which reveals whether the brake pedal is operated or not corresponding sensors s 1 s n are in this case an ignition cycle counter a brake pressure sensor an accelerator pedal position sensor wheel speed sensors and a brake pedal sensor such as for example a pedal position sensor the engine torque may be read in for example from an engine control unit 2 in the present example a rust removal function is performed if the ignition cycle counter content is greater.