Simple Steps by Exterior Car Cleaning Experts to Clean Your Car Wheels and Rims
No matter where you drive, your wheels and tires can get dirty quickly. Cleaning them can be tough because of their complicated designs. It means you have to work hard to reach every spot. Wheels tend to collect dirt faster than other parts of your car because they are in constant contact with the road. Here, exterior car cleaning experts share simple steps to help you easily clean your wheels and rims so they look fresh and shiny again!
Equipment Needed to Clean Wheels
- Any large bucket for mixing water and cleaning solution
- Special wheel brush to reach all the little spaces on your wheels
- Tire cleaner to make your tires look new and add a protective layer
- Wheel cleaner to remove tough dirt from your rims
- Hose or pressure washer to rinse off the wheels and wash away dirt
- Microfiber towels for drying the wheels and preventing water spots
Quick Steps for Spotless Car Wheels and Rims by Exterior Car Cleaning Experts
1. Cool Down Those Wheels Before You Begin
Car exterior cleaning experts recommend starting with cold wheels. Just to be safe, turn off the engine and allow the tires to cool, especially after driving for a long time or sitting in the sun. Hot tires can dry out the cleaning solution quickly. It leaves behind stains or spots.
Also, cleaning with a hot wheel increases the risk of burns or damage to the cleaning tool. By giving the wheels time to cool down, you will get the best cleaning results and avoid any risks.
2. Blast Away Loose Dirt First
Start by washing off any stuck dirt or dust from the wheels. Exterior car cleaning experts recommend using a hose or high-pressure water jet under the wheels to remove dirt and grime. This first wash makes a huge difference.
This is especially true for tough dirt that can cling to your disc. The water helps loosen stubborn dirt. A quick rinse saves time in the long run and gives you a beautiful shine.
3. Choose the Right Wheel Cleaner
Choosing a cleaning solution designed for wheels is key to keeping them looking new. Wheel cleaners come in many different forms, from sprays and mousses to liquid bottles. Exterior car cleaning experts recommend choosing a cleaner that matches your wheel. Basically, not all wheels are made of the same materials. Some are made from alloy, some are chrome, while others are painted or steel.
For alloy and painted wheels, use cleaners that are pH-balanced and non-acidic. Acidic cleaners can be too strong and may damage the finish or leave marks. Chrome wheels can handle stronger cleaners but avoid very acidic ones to stop corrosion over time. Steel wheels can tolerate stronger formulas, especially when there’s a lot of brake dust and dirt. Always choose a cleaner that is safe for your type of wheels.
4. Scrub in Circles for the Best Clean
A good wheel brush can work wonders, especially in tricky areas like gaps around lug nuts and wheel spokes. Exterior car cleaning experts suggest using the scrub in a circular motion to break up dirt without scratching. Take your time to cover every part of the wheel. Remember, patience is key here because it is a small place, and there are many hard-to-reach places where dirt tends to hide.
5. Rinse Off All the Cleaner and Grime
Once you’ve scrubbed away the dirt, it’s time to rinse. Exterior car cleaning experts advise thoroughly rinsing off all the cleaning solutions along with any loosened grime. A hose or pressure washer works best to make sure no soap or dirt remains. As this could leave unsightly marks. This step makes your wheels clean and free of residue, setting the stage for a long-lasting shine.
6. Dry to Avoid Water Spots
Use a soft, fine-fiber towel to gently dry the disc to avoid water stains. Experts say microfiber towels are ideal because they’re very absorbent and less likely to scratch. It takes a few minutes to dry each disc. Pay particular attention to hidden areas where water can collect. This little detail helps keep your wheels clean and shiny for longer.
7. Finish with a Protective Layer
Use a protective layer such as wheel sealant or wax, as it will protect your wheels from dirt. It makes future cleaning faster and easier. These protective layers can also help reduce the accumulation of brake dust. A quick coat of protective coating adds shine and helps prevent dirt. So your wheels stay clean between washes.
The Wrap Up
Cleaning your car wheels is easy and can be fun! With the right tools and some time, you can make them shine like new. Just take your time and follow the steps of exterior car cleaning experts. Clean wheels not only look good but also help keep your car in great condition.
Give your car the care it deserves; contact the Detailing Division for exterior and interior car cleaning.