How to Properly Clean Your Tires and Wheels

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

Cleaning your car's tires and wheels not only improves its appearance but also ensures optimal performance and longevity. To clean your tires and wheels effectively, you’ll need the following supplies:

• A 3 to 5-gallon bucket
• A soft tire and wheel scrub brush
• A sponge or washcloth
• A water hose with a spray nozzle
• Car shampoo
• Spray wheel cleaner

Important Safety Warning:

Never clean your wheels while they are still hot from driving. Allow them to cool completely or hose them down thoroughly with water. Spraying cold water on hot brakes can cause severe damage.

Tire and Wheel Cleaning Tips

Follow these step-by-step tire and wheel cleaning instructions for a spotless, scratch-free finish:

1. Clean one wheel at a time to ensure thorough attention.
2. Wash your tires and wheels first before cleaning the rest of the car. This prevents dirt, brake dust, and cleaners from splattering onto freshly cleaned panels.
3. Prepare a bucket of soapy water by mixing your favorite car shampoo at double the recommended strength.
4. Rinse the tire and wheel thoroughly with a hose and spray nozzle. Be sure to flush away loose brake dust and debris from the brake caliper, as well as grime and dirt in the wheel wells.
5. For heavily soiled tires and wheels, spray them with a quality wheel cleaner and let it soak for 30 seconds to 3 minutes. Look for safe and effective wheel cleaners designed to remove brake dust and road grime without damaging fine wheels.
6. Use a tire and wheel scrub brush with soapy water to gently agitate dirt and grime. The soapy solution acts as a lubricant to lift dirt safely. Follow up with a sponge or washcloth to clean behind wheel spokes and other hard-to-reach areas. Scrub the tires thoroughly to remove built-up dressing that causes discoloration.
7. Don’t forget the wheel wells! Use a wheel brush and soapy water to clean these areas, as this detail keeps your car looking fresh and new. For intricate wheels with tight nooks and crannies, a parts cleaning brush can be very effective.
8. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water, ensuring all traces of wheel cleaner and soap are removed.

After-Care Tips for Tires and Wheels

After completing your car wash, use a detailing towel to dry your tires and wheels completely. Proper drying prevents water spots and ensures a polished finish.

Avoid Bleach-Based Tire Cleaners

We strongly advise against using tire cleaners that contain bleach. While bleach may brighten whitewall tires, it can turn tires dull gray and permanently stain alloy wheels. Always check the product label for contents before purchasing.

By following these steps and using the right products, you’ll maintain clean, shiny tires and wheels that enhance your car's overall appearance.