Your vehicle’s tires take you places, but they have a dirty job. When you’re washing your car, take time to properly clean your wheels and rims with these helpful tips.
Wash Your Tires First
Your tires pick up a lot of dirt and grime from the road. When you wash your car, we recommend washing the tires first to prevent this dirt from splashing up on the body that you’ve already taken the time to clean.
Use a Stiff Bristle Brush on Tires & Soft Bristles on the Rims
Your tires will require a brush that has stiffer bristles to really get them clean and get into the nooks and crannies of the treads. We also recommend using a brush with softer bristles, or a cleaning mitt, for your metal rims. From nylon to boar hair, there are many options on the market, so most companies that create vehicle cleaning products will have one in their line-up. Select one from a brand that you already trust.
Avoid Using Degreasers
If you go a while in between car washes, your tires might be pretty dirty and you might be tempted to use a degreaser. The issue with some of these products is that they may do their work at the time, but they can turn your tires a brownish hue with repeated use.
Polish Up Those Tires
Using a wax or rubber protector can make your wheels look practically new again. However, keep in mind that silicone-based waxes can make your wheel really shiny, but similarly to acid breakdown, these products can make wheels look brown over time. At Ming Shine, we use Feynlab Black Velvet Tire Sealant and Feynlab Ceramic Wheel and Caliper to ensure your tires are protected and look great too! Products such as Mothers and Pinnacle are great options between professional cleanings.
Be Cautious When Cleaning Your Tire Rims
There are many types of rims: Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), chrome, steel, aluminium, and anodized are the most common. There are some rules to keep in mind with your rims. Do not use a chrome polisher on PVD or anodized rims; these products are acidic and will cause damage! If you have chrome rims, it’s essential that you dry them when you’re done cleaning them to prevent rust. A general rule, when in doubt, about the metal and finish of your rims—use soap and water.
Don’t Forget to Dry Off
When you complete the cleaning of your tires and rims, it’s very important that you dry them off using a lint-free drying mitt or towel. Drying off your tires and rims prevents water spots, and dry surfaces do not attract as much dirt and dust, especially if you drive it right away or don’t have a garage.
Overall, the best way to keep your tires and rims looking clean and new is to have the right tools and products to do the job and avoid aggressive chemical cleaners. Sometimes a little car soap, water, and a protective coating might be all you need to make those wheels shine.
If you want to keep your interior as clean as your tires and rims, book a detailing appointment with us today.
