Tips for looking after your alloy wheels

Tips for looking after your alloy wheels

We all know the feeling. You have just spent the time and money to get your car clean and looking beautiful again during your weekend and by mid week your alloy wheels are filthy again. Covered in brake dust and all sorts of other dirt and grime. 

What is brake dust?

When your brake pads squeeze against the callipers at speed it causes friction and small particles of the brake pads wear off. These particles then land on your alloy wheels, covering them in a deep dark layer of dust.

Why you should keep your mag wheels clean?

Apart from the fact that dirty wheels make your pride and joy look terrible, if left to sit on your rims for a long period of time, brake dust eats away at the clear coat and paint on you wheels. Over time this will cause pitting in the paint, small pin hole like dents that will fill with brake dust and not clean off, leaving a rough dirty finish on your wheels. This mainly occurs on the inserts of the wheel.

How to clean your wheels:

The vast majority of alloy wheels are painted or at least have a clear coat on them. This is a similar automotive paint that is on the panels of your car and can be damaged easily, so it is important to take care when cleaning them. Make sure that any cleaners that you or your local car wash use to wash your mag wheels are not acid or solvent based, as this can eat away and fade the paint over time. It is best to use warm soapy water and a soft sponge to clean your rims. Definitely do not use any abrasive scouring pads or firm brushes on your wheels. A good rule of thumb is that if you wouldn’t use it to clean your car, don’t use it on your alloy wheels.

If your wheels are damaged by brake dust or curb damage, contact Platinum Wheel Repairs to get a quote to get your alloy wheels repaired in Sydney. With our mobile technology we are able to get your mag wheels looking new again at your home or office. Click here to contact us today.