Cleaning car alloy rims, much like washing steel rims, can be demotivating due to the tendency of these elements to accumulate dirt quickly. However, the cleanness of rims is not only aesthetically appealing but also essential for better protection against rust or oxide corrosion, as well as preventing damage to tires.
How to take proper care of aluminium rims and which type of wheel cleaner to choose? This article will provide you with useful tips.
Effective maintenance of aluminium rims involves regular cleaning, which can be performed whenever you wash the entire car. After the initial cleaning with a neutral shampoo, it is advisable to use a specialised wheel cleaner for a more thorough wash.
For example, to remove greasy dirt and restore the shine of alloy rims, you can apply Digloss Kamitore Wheel & Tire Cleaner from the Japanese brand Soft99. This cleaner is highly effective while being mild enough for regular use.
For more stubborn contaminants such as heavy metallic deposits, Soft99’s Iron Terminator is a viable option. This washing liquid oxidises metal contaminants, turning purple as it cleans the rims thoroughly.
To facilitate the maintenance of your car’s alloy rims, you can opt for a quartz coating product specifically dedicated to rims. Such a product will create a protective layer that makes the rim surface less susceptible to various contaminants, reducing the time required for cleaning. At the same time, a quartz coating exhibits hydrophobic properties, minimising the risk of aluminium oxidation due to contact with water.
A notable example of an efficient quartz coat is QJUTSU Wheel Coat from Soft99, which also protects rims against UV rays and extreme temperatures, reaching up to 550°C.
While some of the agents mentioned in this article are potent, they are designed to either wash or protect alloy rims. Choosing detergents not intended for use with alloy rims, especially acidic or abrasive cleaners, can damage the rims, diminish their shine, and decrease resistance to oxidation.
Even if you cannot perform a thorough cleaning of your rims, it is advisable to at least rinse them to remove sand or road salt whenever possible to reduce their impact on rims.
Additionally, exercise caution while driving to avoid hitting rocks or curbs, as it can cause significant damage to rims, bend the aluminium, and affect wheel balance and alignment.
Although rims are designed to withstand harsh contaminants and high temperatures, their longevity can be compromised without proper care, not to mention the unappealing appearance that may discourage future buyers. Regular cleaning with specialized agents and exercising caution on the road to prevent mechanical damage, combined with the application of protective coatings, will enhance the maintenance of alloy rims.