Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
Cleaning your car’s wheels is essential in keeping your vehicle looking its best. Whether you have painted, alloy, or chrome wheels, there are some basic steps that you should take to ensure a thorough cleaning. A water hose, a cleaning agent, and a soft-bristled brush can help you clean your car’s wheels.
Know Your Rims First
Determine the type of rims you have on your car. This will help determine the cleaning supplies and methods to use. Inspect the wheels for any damage, such as deep scratches or rust. If there is any damage to the rim, it must be repaired before proceeding with the cleaning process.
Cleaning Car Wheels
You Will Need
- Pressure Washer
- Car Wash Soap
- Wheel Cleaner
- Wheel Cleaning Brush
- Microfiber Towels
- Sponge Or Cloth
- Protective Glaze
Instructions
Turn Off The Engine: Turn off the engine before you begin and allow the wheels to cool. This will help prevent any damage caused by heat.
Hose Down The Wheels: Use a pressure washer to thoroughly hose down all four wheels and tires with car wash soap. This will help eliminate any dirt and grime built up on the surface.
Apply Wheel Cleaner: Once the wheels are wet, apply a wheel cleaner to the surface. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package and use the appropriate cleaner for your type of rim.
Scrub The Wheels: Use a wheel cleaning brush to scrub the wheels and rims in circular motions. This will help remove any dirt, grime, and brake dust accumulated on the surface.
Rinse The Wheels: Rinse off the soap and cleaner with a pressure washer or hose. Be sure to eliminate any residue that may remain on the wheels.
Dry The Wheels: Use a microfiber towel to dry off any excess water from the surface of the wheels. Let it Air dry for at least 10-15 minutes.
Protect The Wheels: Apply a protective glaze or coating to help protect your wheels and keep them looking shiny and new for longer.
Dressing The Tires: Use a sponge or cloth to evenly spread some tire dressing of your choice on the sidewalls of each tire. This will help give them a shiny look.
Benefits Of Cleaning The Wheels Of My Car
- Improves the appearance of your car
- It helps maintain the integrity and value of your rims
- Removes any dirt, grime, and brake dust that can cause corrosion
- It prevents rust or other damage from forming on the wheels
DIY Cleaning Options For Car Wheels
Vinegar And Baking Soda: Mix two parts vinegar and one part baking soda to create a paste that can be applied directly onto the wheel. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it with water.
Dish Soap And Water: Mix dish soap with warm water in a bucket and apply with a sponge. Scrub the wheels with a brush and rinse them off with water.
WD-40: Spray WD-40 onto a cloth and rub it on the wheels to help loosen any dirt or grime. Rinse off with water when finished.
Automotive Degreaser: Apply an automotive degreaser directly onto the wheels and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off with water. This can help remove stubborn dirt and grime from the surface.
Avoid To Do
- Cleaning the car before the wheel
- Washing all wheels at once.
- Using steel wool or other abrasive materials on your wheels as this could damage the surface.
- Using household cleaners like bleach or ammonia can damage the finish of your rims and tires.
- Washing your wheels using excessive pressure.
- Scrubbing too soon
- Using acidic cleaners can damage the protective coating on your rims and tires.
- Leaving the wheel cleaner on for too long could cause discoloration or staining.
- Using a toothbrush on the wheels can cause scratches
- Using paper towels or bath towels to dry wheels
- Being reluctant to seek professional help
Directions
- Make sure the surface is cool to the touch and in a shaded area.
- Begin by cleaning each wheel
- Apply coating over the surface until it disappears.
- Use a clean, soft microfiber towel to buff.
Homemade Rim And Tire Cleaner List
- Baking Soda And Vinegar
- Dish Soap And Water
- Wd-40
- Automotive Degreaser
- Soft Scrub Cleanser With Bleach Alternative
- Lemon Juice And Salt
- Olive Oil And Baking Soda
- Ammonia And Water
- White Vinegar
- Hydrogen Peroxide
FAQs
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Homemade Wheel Cleaner?
Using a homemade wheel cleaner can be cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and safe for your wheels. Customizing the ingredients to suit different wheels, such as aluminum or chrome, is also easier.
How Often Should You Clean Your Car Wheels?
You should clean your car wheels at least every two weeks.
How Do I Get Rid Of The Red Rust Off My Chrome Hubcaps/Wheels?
You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove red rust from chrome hubcaps or wheels. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing off with a brush and rinsing with water. You may need to repeat this process several times to remove the rust.
What Type Of Cleaner Should I Use On My Clear-Coated Chrome Wheels?
For clear-coated chrome wheels, you should use a pH-neutral cleaner. This type of cleaner is less likely to cause damage to the protective coating on your wheels. Always use a soft cloth or brush when cleaning, as anything abrasive could scratch the clear coat.
What Is The Best Way To Clean Heavy Stains?
Using an automotive degreaser is the best way to clean heavy stains from your wheels. This cleaner is designed to cut through grease, grime, and other stubborn dirt.
Is WD-40 Safe For Cleaning Car Wheels?
Yes, WD-40 can be used to clean car wheels. Many people prefer using WD-40 due to its lubricating properties that help break down grease and grime, making wheel cleaning more accessible and efficient.
How Can I Remove Oxidation Or Rust From My Chrome Wheels?
Removing oxidation or rust from chrome wheels can be a tricky process. To do so, you will need to use a rust converter product such as Naval Jelly. This product contains phosphoric acid, which helps convert rust into an inert state and prevents further corrosion.
How To Clean Your Car’s Wheel Trim?
To clean your car’s wheel trim, use mild car soap and warm water to remove any surface dirt. This can be done with a sponge or cloth. Once the wheel trim is washed off, you can use an all-purpose cleaner or specialized wheel trim cleaner to remove any stubborn stains and give them a brilliant shine.
Conclusion
Cleaning your car wheels can help keep your rims looking shiny and new for longer. Be sure to use the appropriate cleaner for your type of wheel, as some cleaners may cause damage if misused. You can ensure that your wheels remain in top condition and make your car look fantastic.
