im about to install some new rotors and pads. can i use brake fluid as a brake cleaner to clean the new rotors off before i install them? and on my new driver side inner brake pad, the corner of the pad has chipped off during shipping i guess. will this little piece that chipped off the pad affect the braking performance negatively? or is it harmless?

 

No. Do not use brake fluid to clean your new rotors. Get some brake cleaner or Carb cleaner.

I would also recommend you replacing the brake pads as well.