How to Properly Clean Car Wheels and Tires

the Importance of Clean Car Wheels and Tires

Regularly cleaning car wheels and tires is important for maintaining the appearance of your vehicle. Over time, brake dust, dirt, and road grime build up on your wheels and tires, leading to an ugly and unattractive look. This wheel care routine should be part of every car wash process.

Tools and Products You’ll Need for Tire and Wheel Cleaning

Wheel and tire Cleaning Products

To safely and effectively clean your wheels and tires, you’ll need the following products:

• Tire and Wheel Cleaner: A cleaner to break down dirt, grime, and old tire dressings, safe for use on both tires and rims. We recommend P&S Brake Buster.
• Iron Remover: Useful for removing stubborn brake dust and iron contaminants CarPro Iron X is a highly suggested product.
• Tire Dressing: Protects the tires from UV rays and gives them a deep, rich finish.

Recommended Tools

• Pressure Washer or Hose: To rinse off dirt, grime, and cleaning products.
• EZ Large Wheel Brush: Great for cleaning deep into wheel barrels.
• Soft-Bristle Wheel Brush: Ideal for cleaning complex wheel designs without scratching.
• Tire Brush: A stiffer brush designed to scrub and clean the rubber surface of the tires.
• Detailing Brush: For hard-to-reach areas like behind the spokes and around lug nuts.
• Long Tire Brush: Perfect for reaching and cleaning the wheel wells, where dirt and grime often accumulate.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Tires and Wheels

Step 1: Applying Iron Remover

Start by applying an iron remover directly onto dry wheels, focusing on areas with heavy brake dust accumulation, especially on alloy wheels where brake dust accumulates heavily. Allow the iron remover to sit for a few minutes as it reacts with iron particles, causing a color change. This step is crucial for breaking down and removing embedded iron contaminants.

Step 2: Rinse the Wheel and Tire Surfaces

After the iron remover has had time to sit, thoroughly rinse the wheel and tire surfaces with a hose or pressure washer. This pre-rinse is essential as it washes away the iron remover, loose dirt, brake dust, and debris, making the cleaning process more effective. By removing surface dirt first, you reduce the risk of scratching the wheel’s surface during scrubbing. When you clean one wheel at a time, this approach ensures the best results.

step 3: Applying Wheel Cleaner

When applying wheel cleaner, spray the wheel generously with the cleaning product onto the wheel surface, ensuring full coverage. This helps in loosening up dirt, grime, and brake dust. Once the cleaner is applied, let it dwell on the surface for a few minutes. This gives the cleaner enough time to break down stubborn contaminants. Allowing the product to sit will make the cleaning process much easier.

Step 4: Clean the Wheel Surface and Wheel Barrel

Using a wheel brush, agitate the wheel cleaner. Clean one wheel at a time, scrubbing around the lug nuts, and other intricate areas. For cleaning deeper inside the rims and in between the spokes, use the EZ large wheel brush to ensure you reach those hard to access spots. For the wheel wells, use a long tire brush to remove any dirt and grime.

Step 5: Clean the Tires with Tire Cleaner

Scrub the tires using a stiff tire brush and the same cleaner used on the wheels. Make sure to clean the sidewalls thoroughly, removing any old tire dressing, dirt, or grime. This step ensures a clean surface for applying tire dressing later.

Step 6: Rinsing and Drying

Once scrubbing the tires is complete, rinse the wheels and tires thoroughly with clean water. After rinsing, allow the tires to air dry or use an air blower to speed up the drying process.

Step 7: Applying Wheel Protection

To ensure your wheels stay clean and protected for longer, apply a sealant or ceramic coating after the cleaning process. This protective layer creates a barrier against brake dust, road grime, and other contaminants, making it easier to maintain the wheels and preventing corrosion. A sealant provides a good level of protection and shine, while a ceramic coating offers durability and long-lasting protection. Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and ensure even coverage for the best results.

Step 8: Tire Dressing for a Finishing Touch

Finally, apply tire dressing onto the tires using an applicator pad to give them a glossy finish and protect the rubber from cracking and fading. Use a foam applicator to ensure even coverage, and allow the dressing to dry before driving.

Tips for Different Types of Wheels

Different wheel finishes require specific approaches to get the best results. Here’s how to properly clean various wheel types:

Aluminum Wheels: These need extra care during the scrubbing process. Apply the wheel cleaner as normal, but use gentler pressure when agitating with your wheel brush. Always rinse the wheel thoroughly and use a microfiber towel for drying.

Coated Wheels: Use the same wheel cleaner but apply with lighter pressure to avoid damaging the protective coating. Let the cleaner do most of the work rather than aggressive scrubbing.

Chrome Wheels: Need special care when you scrub, use lighter pressure with your wheel brush and let the wheel cleaner dwell longer to break down contaminants.

When working on any type of wheels, remember to clean one wheel completely before moving to the next. This cleaning routine ensures each wheel gets proper attention and prevents cleaning products from drying on the surface.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Wheels and Tires

Neglecting the Wheel Wells

The wheel wells are often overlooked during the cleaning process, but they are just as important as the wheels and tires themselves. Dirt, mud, and road grime build up in the wheel wells. Make sure to clean these areas thoroughly with a long tire brush to prevent buildup and maintain the condition of your tires.

Skipping Protective Measures

After cleaning, it’s important to apply a protective layer to your wheels and tires. Skipping this can leave your wheels vulnerable to brake dust, road salt, and other contaminants. Whether you choose a sealant or ceramic coating, adding this layer of protection will keep your wheels looking clean and new for longer, while making future cleanings easier.

FAQs About Cleaning Wheels and Tires

What is the benefit of using a sealant or ceramic coating?

A sealant or ceramic coating add a barrier against brake dust, road grime, and other contaminants. It makes future cleanings easier and helps maintain the appearance and longevity of your wheels.

How long should I let the iron remover sit on the wheels?

Normally, an iron remover should sit on the wheels for 2-5 minutes to effectively break down iron deposits. However, follow the specific product’s instructions.

How often should I clean my car wheels?

You should clean car wheels every time you wash your car, typically every 2-3 weeks. Wheels get dirty fast due to brake dust and road grime accumulation, so regular cleaning prevents buildup.

What’s the best way to clean wheels with heavy brake dust buildup?

Start with an iron remover, then use a color changing wheel cleaner that shows when it’s working. Scrub gently using a brush designed for your specific wheel type, then rinse thoroughly.

Should I apply wheel wax after cleaning?

Yes, applying wheel wax or sealant after cleaning helps keep your wheels protected and makes future cleaning easier. This is especially important for maintaining tires looking fresh and protecting against road grime.

How do I know if I’m using the right tire cleaner for my wheels?

Check that the product label says it’s safe for your wheel type, whether its aluminum, chrome, or coated wheels they all need different care. The right cleaner should remove brake dust effectively without causing any staining or damage to your wheels. If your wheels look clean and bright after washing with no spots or dullness, you’ve got the right product.

How does cleaning wheels and tires fit into car detailing?

Cleaning your wheels and tires is an important part of car detailing. It enhances the vehicle’s appearance and also prevents brake dust and road grime from building up, which can cause long-term damage to both the wheels and surrounding areas. Keeping your wheels and tires clean complements other detailing efforts, ensuring your entire vehicle remains in top condition.

Final Thoughts