How to Clean Oxidized Aluminum Wheels?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

To clean oxidized aluminum wheels, test the aluminum for a coating and wash the wheels with water, removing as much dirt and buildup as possible. Then, apply an aluminum wheel cleaner and a soft bristle brush to scrub all wheel surfaces, including the inner parts and wells. Rinse the wheel thoroughly and dry it with a microfiber cloth to prevent spotting. If needed, use cleaning clay to remove embedded particles. For polishing, lightly polish coated wheels and remove heavy oxidation on bare aluminum. Buff out severe pitting and oxidation by hand with wet sandpaper, and then apply an aluminum wheel polish using an applicator or cloth. Wipe away any excess polish and repeat the process on the remaining wheels.

Step-By-Step Cleaning Oxidized Aluminum Wheels:

Removing Surface Debris

Step 1: Park your car on a flat surface

• Chock the wheels to prevent rolling.
• Park in a shaded area to avoid cleaners drying too fast.

Step 2: Test the aluminum for a coating

• Apply a small amount of polish to an inconspicuous spot.
• Wipe off to check for black residue.
• If no black residue is present, the wheels are likely coated.

Step 3: Wash the wheels with water

• Clean one wheel at a time.
• Use a powerful stream of water to remove dirt, buildup, and break dust.
• Rinse all parts of the wheel thoroughly.
• Be cautious not to spread dirtiness to the car.

Removing Oxidation

Step 1: Apply aluminum wheel cleaner

• Choose a non-acidic cleaner suitable for aluminum wheels.
• Spray the cleaner on the wheel, ensuring full coverage.
• Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label.

Step 2: Brush all surfaces of the wheel clean

• Use a soft bristle brush to work the cleaner into a lather.
• Clean the front and inner parts of the wheel, reaching through the spokes.
• Use a small, soft bristle brush for lug nuts and their holes.
• Keep the wheel wet while brushing to prevent scratches and spotting.

Step 3: Scrub out the wheel wells

• Re-wet the wheel well and use an all-purpose car exterior cleaner.
• Scrub the wheel well vigorously, focusing on stubborn buildup.
• Use separate brushes for the wheel wells and wheels.

Step 4: Rinse the wheel thoroughly

• Use a hose or power washer to remove soap from all areas of the wheel.
• Start with the wheel well to prevent splashing grime on the wheel.
• Pay attention to spokes, nuts, and flush soap from lug nut holes.

Step 5: Dry the cleaned wheels

• Use a soft microfiber cloth to dry the wheels.
• Avoid air drying, as it may lead to spots.
• Keep wheel-drying clothes separate from others.

Step 6: Use cleaning clay for embedded particles (if necessary)

• Spray the wheel with a clay lubricant.
• Rub a quarter of the clay into a patty over the wheel.
• Fold the clay as it becomes dirty and wipe it away with a clean cloth.

Polishing Aluminum Wheels

Step 1: Polish coated wheels lightly

• Use a clear coat-safe polish suitable for coated aluminum.
• Apply the polish with a microfiber cloth.
• Buff the wheel with a power polisher or a clean cloth.
• Wipe the wheel with a fresh microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Remove heavy oxidation before polishing bare aluminum

• Use an aluminum polish pre-cleaner.
• Spray on the cleaner and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Brush oxidized areas and rinse and dry the wheel.

Step 3: Buff out severe pitting and oxidation by hand

• Wet the wheel and use coarse sandpaper for heavy pitting.
• Rinse regularly and switch to finer grit paper as pitting diminishes.
• Finish with the finest grit paper for a smoother surface.

Step 4: Apply aluminum wheel polish

• Use an applicator, microfiber cloth, or power polisher pad.
• Apply the polish to the wheel, following the instructions.
• Spread the polish with a power polisher or by hand.

Step 5: Wipe away the remaining polish

• Use a clean microfiber cloth to remove the remaining polish.
• Repeat the polishing process if necessary.
• Use new pads and clothes for re-polishing.

Step 6: Clean and polish the remaining wheels

• Repeat the cleaning and polishing process on the other wheels.
• Apply a wheel wax to prevent further oxidation.

Cleaning Oxidized Aluminum Wheels with Household Products: A DIY Approach

Here is a step-by-step process of using simple household items to restore shine to your wheels.

Preparing for Cleaning

Removing Caps: Removing caps from the wheels to access the surface for cleaning.

Washing Off Surface Grime

Step 1: Rinse with Water

• Use a sponge to wash off the mud and other debris from the wheels.
• Rinse thoroughly to reveal the extent of buildup.

Step 2: Using Lemon Juice

• Prepare a mixture of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle.
• Spray the mixture onto the wheels and rub it in using an abrasive sponge.
• Apply moderate pressure while rubbing to remove grime.

Step 3: Employing Baking Soda

• Sprinkle baking soda onto the wheels.
• Spray the lemon juice mixture as a lubricant and use the sponge to scrub the wheels.
• Apply some elbow grease to target persistent stains.

Assessing the Results

Step 1: Rinsing

• Thoroughly rinse the wheels to remove the cleaning mixture and residue.
• Observe the significant improvement in the cleanliness of the wheels.

Step 2: Drying

• Dry the wheels with a cloth or allow them to air dry.
• Compare the appearance of the wheels before and after to appreciate the transformation.

Final Touches and Evaluation

• Clean the remaining wheels using the same process.
• Ensure the caps are thoroughly cleaned before reinstalling them.
• Place the wheels back onto the vehicle to assess the overall look.
• Decide whether to keep the dust cover on or remove it for a more rugged appearance.

How to Prevent Aluminum Wheels from Oxidizing?

The methods to prevent aluminum wheels oxidation, including the use of protective coatings and regular cleaning, are:

Protective Coatings for Aluminum Wheels

Powder Coats:

• Powder coats provide a durable and protective layer on the wheels.
• They offer various options for protection, including higher electrical resistance.
• Ideal for preventing galvanic corrosion by acting as a barrier between aluminum and oxygen.

Paint (Clear Coat or Colored):

• Applying a clear coat of colored paint acts as a protective barrier.
• Clear coats provide a transparent layer that safeguards the wheels.
• Colored paints offer both protection and aesthetic customization.

Anodizing:

• Anodizing is a sacrificial anode coating that erodes faster than aluminum.
• It serves as a sacrificial layer, absorbing oxygen and corrosion.
• While anodizing requires more frequent replacement, it offers a visually appealing finish.

Wax:

• Wax coating is a cost-effective and simple option for protecting wheels.
• However, it is not as durable as other protective coatings.
• Regular reapplication is necessary, typically after every 3rd or 4th wheel wash.

Conclusion:

Cleaning oxidized aluminum wheels is a straightforward process that can bring back their shine and make them look new. Following these step-by-step instructions, you can remove surface debris, oxidation, and even severe pitting, restoring your wheels’ appearance and integrity. Remember to use the right cleaning products and techniques for the best results.

FAQ:

Key Points:

• Park on a flat surface and chock the wheels.
• Test for the coating to determine the cleaning method.
• Clean the wheels with water before removing oxidation.
• Use a soft bristle brush to scrub the wheel and wheel wells.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
• Use cleaning clay for embedded particles if necessary.
• Polish coated wheels lightly and remove heavy oxidation on bare aluminum.
• Buff severe pitting and oxidation by hand with sandpaper.
• Apply aluminum wheel polish and wipe away the excess.
• Clean and polish all wheels, and consider applying a wheel wax for protection.