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Wheel Cleaners
The Auto Finesse Wheel Cleaner Range Explained.
We all know that wheels can make or break the look of a car, and it's not just about design. Their condition can significantly impact the overall appearance you're aiming for. Plus, if you don't take care of them, they can lose value when it's time to sell!
First, evaluate how dirty your wheels are. This will depend on factors like how long it’s been since your last wash, the type of driving you do, and the season. When cleaning wheels, it’s important to have a dedicated set of tools, including a Wash Bucket, Wash Mitt, our Hog Hair Detailing Brushes (two should do the trick), and microfiber drying towels. Detailing brushes are especially useful for intricate wheels, allowing you to reach areas like behind spokes and brake calipers. They help agitate dirt effectively while being gentle on the wheel's finish.
With so many wheel cleaners available, it can be tricky to choose the right one. At Auto Finesse, we offer three distinct options, each designed for different needs. But how do you know which one is right for your wheels? Here's a quick guide to help you decide.
The right wheel cleaner depends on two factors: the amount of dirt and your wheel finish. For light to medium grime, our acid-free Imperial wheel cleaner works well for everyday cleaning, effectively removing brake dust without needing heavy scrubbing. If your wheels are heavily soiled, Auto Finesse Iron Out fallout remover is your go-to, but be cautious—this is powerful stuff! While it won't cause permanent damage when used properly, it’s important to follow the directions carefully. For delicate finishes like chrome or diamond-cut, opt for our Revolution wheel shampoo. It's gentle enough for these surfaces yet strong enough to tackle stubborn grime. Always check your wheel finish and choose your cleaner carefully, as stronger acid-based products can cause damage if misused.
When selecting a wheel cleaner, it's essential to evaluate how dirty your wheels are and consider their finish. Let’s quickly break down some of the common wheel finishes you might come across:
Painted and lacquered wheels should be cleaned regularly with a high-quality cleaner, ideally one that removes ferrous contamination. They can be washed similarly to the rest of the vehicle, but avoid high-pH cleaners. Using overly harsh chemical washes can cause the lacquer to peel over time. Just like paintwork, painted and lacquered wheels need protection. After a thorough wash, apply a good wheel wax or sealant. Before sealing, make sure the wheel surface is smooth—if it’s not, there are still contaminants. Use a clay bar to remove any remaining embedded particles, then apply your sealant. This ensures the wax or sealant bonds effectively. Powder-coated wheels can be treated the same way, as while the finish is tougher, they are still lacquered like paint.
Diamond cut wheels are quite complex. First, they're painted in your chosen color, cured with heat (similar to regular paintwork), and then precision-machined with a CNC lathe to achieve the diamond cut finish. Finally, they’re sealed with an acrylic lacquer. If the lacquer gets damaged, the entire layer needs to be stripped and re-machined, but this can only be done a limited number of times, as each round removes more of the wheel material. So, it's essential to keep them well-maintained. Clean them with a mild shampoo, avoiding acid or alkaline-based cleaners to prevent discoloration. Because diamond cut wheels often have sharp edges, it's better to use an air blower for drying rather than cloths. After cleaning, apply a quality wheel wax or polymer sealant to protect the finish.
Split rims consist of multiple parts, typically two or three, bolted together. While they are usually lacquered, each part may have a different finish. You can identify split rims by the visible bolts, either on the face or the rear of the wheel. For cleaning, follow a similar process to diamond cut wheels. Avoid using ceramic sealants and instead, protect the wheels with a high-quality wheel wax like Auto Finesse Mint Rims to maintain their finish.
Anodised wheels are a bit more complex. They undergo an electrochemical process that oxidizes the surface, adding thickness and protection directly to the wheel itself. This finish is integral rather than an additional layer. While anodised wheels are typically very durable and resistant to corrosion, they still need regular washing. However, they don’t require the same waxing and sealing treatments as the other finishes mentioned.
Chrome wheels, including wire wheels, feature a high-shine finish that requires careful maintenance. It’s crucial to avoid alkaline-based washes, as they can stain the metal. While any staining can be polished away, it’s always better to prevent the issue in the first place. Stick to a mild shampoo for washing and ensure you clean them regularly, using an air blower to dry them. To further prevent water spots, consider using a deionizing water filter.
After putting in all that effort to clean your wheels, don’t overlook your tires!
Don’t forget about your tyres! After washing your wheels, spray Imperial onto the tyre and use a dedicated wheel brush to scrub away the dirt. This will not only remove grime but also strip off any old tyre dressing. Once the tyre is dry and the wheel is clean, apply Auto Finesse Satin tyre dressing gel for a polished finish. You can layer the gel to achieve your desired shine—the more layers you apply, the glossier the result!
