How to Properly Clean and Maintain Your Wheels

By Daren Foertsch

Aftermarket wheels are one of the best ways to enhance the look and performance of your vehicle. However, keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential to preserving their finish and longevity. Whether you have factory-painted, aftermarket-painted, powder-coated, or polished wheels, using the right cleaning products and techniques can make all the difference.

Different wheel finishes require different cleaning approaches. Using the wrong product can damage the surface, leading to fading, pitting, or even corrosion. Here’s how to care for each type properly:

Image: Griots Garage

Factory-Painted Wheels

• Characteristics: Typically feature a clear coat over the paint for added protection.
• Cleaning Tips: Use a pH-balanced, non-acidic wheel cleaner to avoid damaging the clear coat. A soft wheel brush will help remove brake dust without scratching the surface.
• Maintenance: Regular waxing or a ceramic coating can help protect the clear coat from dirt and contaminants.

Aftermarket-Painted Wheels

• Characteristics: Often use a variety of paints and finishes that may not be as durable as factory coatings.
• Cleaning Tips: Stick to mild, non-acidic cleaners to prevent fading or peeling. Avoid pressure washing at close range, as it can lift the paint.
• Maintenance: A high-quality sealant or ceramic coating can enhance protection and make cleaning easier.

Powder-Coated Wheels

• Characteristics: Powder coating is a durable, baked-on finish that resists chipping and corrosion better than traditional paint.
• Cleaning Tips: Non-acidic wheel cleaners are best. While powder coating is tough, using an aggressive brush or acidic cleaners can still wear down the finish over time.
• Maintenance: A ceramic coating will help repel dirt and brake dust, making maintenance simple.

Polished Wheels (Bare Metal, No Clear Coat)

• Characteristics: Highly reflective and aesthetically pleasing but require frequent upkeep since they lack a protective clear coat.
• Cleaning Tips: Avoid acidic cleaners at all costs, as they can cause oxidation and etching. Instead, use a mild soap and water solution with a microfiber cloth.
• Maintenance: Regular polishing with a metal polish is necessary to maintain shine. Applying a ceramic coating or a dedicated wheel sealant can provide extra protection against oxidation.

Acid vs. Non-Acid Wheel Cleaners: What You Need to Know

Wheel cleaners come in two main types: acid-based and non-acidic. Choosing the right one can make a huge difference in how well your wheels hold up over time.

Acid-Based Wheel Cleaners

• Pros: Excellent at cutting through heavy brake dust and corrosion.
• Cons: Can damage certain finishes, especially polished aluminum and satin or matte finishes. Acidic cleaners can also strip away waxes, sealants, and even clear coats over time.
• Best Use: Only for extremely dirty factory-painted or powder-coated wheels when other methods fail. Even then, they should be used sparingly and rinsed immediately.

Non-Acidic Wheel Cleaners

• Pros: Safe for most wheel finishes, including painted, powder-coated, and polished surfaces.
• Cons: May require additional scrubbing for heavily soiled wheels.
• Best Use: Regular maintenance cleaning for all types of wheels.

If you're unsure about a cleaner, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the wheel first.

How Ceramic Coatings Help with Wheel Maintenance

A ceramic coating designed specifically for wheels can significantly reduce the effort needed to keep them clean. Here’s how:

• Repels Dirt and Brake Dust: Creates a hydrophobic barrier, making it harder for contaminants to stick.
• Easier Cleaning: A simple rinse or mild soap wash is often enough to remove grime.
• Protects Against Corrosion: Shields the wheel’s finish from oxidation, UV rays, and road salts.
• Enhances Shine: Keeps polished wheels looking mirror-like with less frequent polishing.

Applying a ceramic coating is a great investment, especially for high-maintenance finishes like polished or aftermarket-painted wheels.

Image: Mustang6G.com

Follow these steps to ensure your wheels stay in top condition:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

• Wheel cleaner
• Two buckets (one for wheels, one for tires)
• Soft wheel brush or microfiber wash mitt
• Lug nut brush (optional)
• Pressure washer or hose with a spray nozzle
• Drying towel or air blower

Step 2: Rinse the Wheels

Use a pressure washer or hose to remove loose dirt and brake dust. This prevents scratching when scrubbing.

Step 3: Apply Wheel Cleaner

Spray your chosen wheel cleaner generously on the wheel and let dwell for the recommended time on the instructions (usually about 2-3 minutes)

Step 4: Scrub Gently

Use a soft brush to scrub the wheel, focusing on crevices where brake dust accumulates. Be extra gentle on painted and polished finishes.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Ensure all cleaner is rinsed off to prevent residue buildup.

Step 6: Dry the Wheels

Use a microfiber towel or air blower to prevent water spots.

Step 7: Apply a Protective Coating

If your wheels aren’t ceramic-coated, apply a spray sealant or wax to enhance protection.

Proper wheel maintenance doesn’t just keep your car looking great—it also extends the life of your wheels. By using the right cleaning products, avoiding harsh acidic cleaners on delicate finishes, and considering ceramic coatings for extra protection, you can keep your wheels in top condition with minimal effort.

Whether you have factory-painted, aftermarket-painted, powder-coated, or polished wheels, a little extra care goes a long way in preserving their appearance and performance.