Purchasing a new automobile often comes with the perk of attractive alloy wheels. While these wheels add a touch of class initially, the slim wheel arches can quickly become dirty as debris gathers in their crevices. In addition to the muck from the roads, alloy wheels are susceptible to brake dust, which can leave unsightly brown smears, tarnishing their pristine look.
Thankfully, there’s a solution. Whether through an alloy wheel refurbishment professional or with some basic techniques and supplies at home, removing brake dust, mud, and stains from alloy wheels can be a quick and simple process. Here are a few strategies for keeping your wheel rims spotless:
1. Refine Your Alloy Wheels
Applying a premium-quality polish can quickly rejuvenate your alloys, making them look as good as new. The application process is straightforward: smear on the polish, let it sit for a few minutes, then buff it off; the more effort you exert, the better your alloys will appear.
Verify that the polish you’ve selected is compatible with your Specialty Metals Strip Alloys. You should confirm if it fits on aluminum, coated, chrome, or painted surfaces. Besides improving their visual appeal, polishing your alloy wheels also shields them from any road-induced damage.
2. Tire Dressing
Using a premium tire dressing can significantly enhance the look of your alloys, especially since Rimblades utilize bond-on technology that allows you to apply the dressings to the entire tire, including the bead area. Tire dressings come in either matte or high-gloss variants.
Invest in a high-quality brand and allow it to dry completely to prevent the product from splattering onto the vehicle while moving. However, we do not recommend using tire shine before applying our bond-on products as any silicone residue can significantly decrease adhesion. If tire shine has been used within the six months preceding the installation of Rimblades, please use our tire shine remover to eliminate all remaining traces.
3. Repairing Damaged Alloy Wheels
Maintaining your wheels in a clean state and practicing cautious driving can significantly contribute to the longevity of your alloys. However, some degree of wear and tear is inevitable. An auto body repair shop can efficiently handle most scuffs and scratches on alloy wheels. This gives your wheels a fresh, like-new appearance without investing in a new set.
Regardless of whether you’re an avid car enthusiast or simply looking to avoid hefty vehicle repair costs, poorly maintained wheels can diminish not only the visual appeal but also the resale value and overall worth of your car.
4. Utilize Proprietary Products
When looking for products with alloy wheels, it’s best to opt for those specifically designed for this purpose. These are preferable over cleaners meant for steel wheels, as they can damage the finish of an alloy wheel. The usage of these specialized alloy products should be as per the guidelines provided on their packaging.
Choose soft sponges, gentle bristle brushes, or fresh cloths to apply the cleaner or wipe off the dirt. It’s crucial to ensure you’re not inadvertently spreading grit over your alloys in the process, as this could lead to scratches and marks on your wheels.
5. Sealant
Applying a sealant is recommended once you’ve thoroughly cleaned all your alloy wheels. This acts as a protective layer against dirt, grease, and brake dust, helping to maintain the appearance of your alloys; one container of sealant should suffice for five or six applications.
Alloy wheels are at risk of severe corrosion, particularly during winter due to the rock salt and other chemicals used on roads to fight against ice and snow. This can lead to corrosion, and neglecting alloy refurbishment can drastically shorten the lifespan of your wheels, so timely wheel refurbishment is vital.
Endnote
Start implementing these five strategies today to enhance the upkeep and restoration of your alloy wheels, ensuring their optimal look and performance. Don’t delay until the damage is done; begin your alloy wheel maintenance right away.
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