WHEEL MAINTENANCE & CARE

Proper Cleaning of Your Wheels and Rims

Following these simple steps will enhance the beauty of your car and will help your wheels look great for years to come!

Cleaning Wheels with a Painted Finish

When cleaning your new wheels, we recommend that you refrain from using chemical wheel cleaners. Many of them contain caustic chemicals that can damage the clear-coated finish by clouding it or even removing it. If you wash your vehicle on a regular basis, there is really no need to use them. When washing your vehicle, start with the wheels first. Try to wash them when they are cool, not after a long drive. The brakes heat the wheels up, making them difficult to clean and dry and you can warp your vehicles brake disc rotors if rapidly cooled with water.

Since the finish on your wheels is similar to your vehicle’s paint job, use a mild detergent that is designed for use on automotive finishes. Use a washing mitt or a soft sponge. Never use any type of brush or abrasive pad as these will scratch and damage the finish. Since the finish of your wheels is similar to your vehicle’s paint job, it is a good idea to wax the exposed areas of your wheels 3 to 4 times per year or more if you live in a harsh climate. This will maintain that new look longer and will help keep road grime and the elements from damaging the finish of your new wheels.

Cleaning Wheels with a Chrome Plated Finish

The same rules apply for chrome plated wheels as for wheels with a painted finish. Chrome plating is more delicate and does require more care. You may wish to clean and wax them more often. Be sure not use any abrasive chrome polishes as this could scratch the chrome plating. If you live in a climate where road salts are used in the winter months, we recommend that you remove your plated wheels during this time. Chrome plated wheels will rapidly pit and become cloudy when exposed to road salt for any extended period as the salt contains chemicals which breaks down the finish on this type of wheel.