How to Clean Car Wheels – A Beginner’s Guide

Learning how to clean car wheels can be an intimidating task. With so many products and tips to do this, it can leave you confused about where to start. Plus, when it comes to cleaning your car wheels, it’s not just soap and sponges. Having a clean set of wheels makes your Clermont Toyota shine and stand out on the highway. Don’t fret! We’re “Making it Simple™” to get your wheels squeaky clean in no time! We’re breaking down why it’s important, how to clean car wheels, and what products to use to make your new Toyota stand out.

Why is it Important to Clean Your Wheels?

First, why is it important to know how to clean car wheels? Well, think of your wheels like the shoes on your feet! They take pothole damage, dirt, brake dust, and grime. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip this super important part of car detailing.

• Brake Dust: When you slam on those car brakes, small metal particles from your car brake pads stick to your wheels. However, if this goes under the radar, then the brake dust can corrode the finish and damage the wheels over time.

• Curb Appeal: Also, having clean wheels just has a certain aesthetic to it. Who wants to pull up to their date with dirty wheels? This is why it’s so important to know how to clean car wheels.

• Resale Value: Additionally, knowing how to clean car wheels helps the resale value of your car and saves you some money!

• Safety: Lastly, too much grime on your car wheels can hide cracks and damage on your wheels. If you let this go on for too long, then you might see yourself at the Clermont Toyota Collision Center.

Car Detailing Supplies: What You’ll Need

Before you begin tackling those dirty wheels, you’ll need some supplies! Here’s what supplies you’ll need from our Clermont Toyota technicians:

• Wheel Cleaner: When you’re learning how to clean car wheels, having wheel cleaner is the first product that comes to mind. Select a product designed for your type of wheel (alloy, chrome, or painted). Plus, other options are Meguier’s Hot Rims Wheel Cleaner, Chemical Guys Diablo Gel, or Sonax Wheel Cleaner Plus.

• Wheel Brush: Also, you’ll need a wheel brush that gets into tight spots without scratching anything.

• Microfiber Towels: Microfiber towels are amazing for drying and buffing.

• Bucket of Water: Having a bucket ready is key so that your Clermont Toyota wheels can sparkle!

• Hose of Pressure Washer: Having a hose or pressure washer is key to rinsing off dirt and cleaner from your Clermont Toyota car wheels.

• Optional: Lastly, have tire cleaner and tire shine ready!

How to Clean Car Wheels: Step-by-Step 

It’s time for a step-by-step guide on how to clean car wheels. Check it out!

1. Clean Wheels First

First, always start washing your wheels before washing the rest of your Clermont Toyota. Wheels tend to be the dirtiest part, and you don’t want to splash grime all over your car paint.

1. Rinse Thoroughly 

Next, give your ride a thorough rinse to blast the dirt and brake dust away. This prevents any scratches when you start scrubbing away.

1. Spray on Wheel Cleaner 

Spray wheel cleaner all over your wheel (even those tight spots). Be sure to cover the face, spokes, and lug nuts. Also, let this sit for 1-2 minutes, but don’t let it dry. Another great tip on how to clean car wheels is to never use harsh household cleaners or degreasers.

1. Scrub with a Wheel Brush 

When using a wheel brush, dip it into a bucket of clean water and scrub away! Focus on the face of the wheel, between the spokes, around the lug nuts, and the inner barrel.

1. Rinse (Again)

Also, be sure to rinse off all of the cleaner and grime. Leave nothing behind, because the residue can attract more dirt.

1. Dry with a Microfiber Towel 

When learning how to clean car wheels, using a microfiber towel is key! This prevents any water spots that accumulate from air drying. Be sure to use a different one on your Clermont Toyota car paint so that cross-contamination doesn’t occur.

1. Clean and Shine Tires (Optional)

Cleaning and shining your Clermont Toyota car tires is a step you can’t miss! Spray on tire cleaner and scrub the sidewalls with a stiff brush. This will give a beautiful finish for that new car vibe.

Need Some Car Detailing Recommendations? 

When learning how to clean car wheels, here are our best recommendations for you!

• Meguiar’s Hot Rims Wheel Cleaner
• Chemical Guys Diablo Gel
• Sonax Wheel Cleaner Plus
• Mothers Wheel Brush
• Chemical Guys Tire and Rubber Cleaner

Using any of these items will help make your car shine when learning how to clean car wheels.

Stop by Toyota of Clermont for Your Car Wheel Needs!

Now that you know everything you need to know about how to clean car wheels, which product will you purchase? Get the most out of your car detailing products at Toyota of Clermont! We’re located at 16851 State Road 50 just west of the Florida Turnpike.

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