Detailing Wheels and Tires
Before we get started please refer to the tools required for detailing wheels and tires for product suggestions.
Detailing Wheels and Tires is a necessary step to maintain your wheels and tires in top form. Brake dust is the number one contaminant that can eat through the paint, chrome or powder coat down to the metal if you don’t clean it and leave it on more an extended period. Brake pads are made from metals, carbon fiber and adhesive and brake dust is the by-product of braking, and the heat generated makes it very corrosive.
We can prevent serious damage to our vehicle’s wheels by regular cleaning, preferably doing it the same time we clean the car.
Step by Step Guide in Detailing Wheels and Tires
- Before washing your vehicle, clean the wheels first. This prevents dirt from the wheels splashing on the body. Use a separate wash and rinse bucket and microfiber towels for the wheels.
- Spray a good amount of cleaner on the wheels and tires then agitate with a wheel brush then rinse after.
- Clean one wheel at a time so the cleaner does not dry on the wheel.
- Dry the wheels with a microfiber towel. Remember to use a separate microfiber towel just for the wheels. Drying prevents water spots and removes brake dust residue that is left.
Waxing the Wheels – Detailing Wheels and Tires
After drying the wheels and tires, apply a coat of wheel wax. This adds a layer of protection to your wheels that prevents brake dust from sticking. Apply wax on the wheels the same way you apply it on the body, use a foam applicator to apply thin coats then buff to a nice shine. The nice thing about waxing your wheels regularly is that you’ll only need to use water to remove dirt and brake dust on the wheels in between wax cycles. Weekly wax applications is recommended.
Finishing Touches – Applying Tire Dressing
Tire dressing adds a layer of protection to your tires against UV-Rays and restores the nice black finish.Apply some tire dressing on the foam applicator then make a couple of passes on the sidewalls. Remember to apply thin coats and allow the dressing to dry before driving off, this prevents it from slinging and splattering.
Use a water based tire dressing that does not have any silicone in it. Silicone takes away the rubber’s natural oils and protectants turning it brown over time.
