Wheel Care and Maintenance
The following precautions should always be taken when taking care of your wheels.
Applying a coat of non polish synthetic wax to new wheels prior to installing them will provide additional protection against the elements and ease the process of cleaning them when they are dirty. It is a good idea to wax your wheels regularly, like you would a car.
Never use abrasive cleaners or scrub pads that could corrode or scratch the finish.
Wash your wheels regularly with mild soap and water only. Do not use wheel cleaners, as many contain corrosive agents that can cause hazing and deterioration. Use tar and bug remover solutions only on tarred areas of the wheel.
Never have your wheels steam cleaned. Hot steam can accelerate corrosion and dull the finish of your wheels.
Don't clean wheels that are hot from operation. Water and soap in contact with hot wheels will create water spots that could pit the surface of the wheels.
Unless specified, custom wheels are not to be used during winter, when road salts and corrosive additives can cause irreparable damage to the finish of the wheels. Road salts on wheels that are hot can accelerate the corrosion process. When your wheels are temporarily exposed to the conditions mentioned, immediately use water to wash off the debris and wipe them to prevent further corrosion.
Always clean your wheels on a regular basis. Wheels, along with tires, are often in contact with debris and elements that could be highly corrosive. It is always advisable to keep your wheels clean to ensure the longevity of their finish. When cleaning your car, always clean your wheel with a different sponge. The dirt and debris on your wheels could harm the finish of your vehicle if you use the same sponge. Be sure to also use a soft bristle brush to dislodge any debris from your wheels, to prevent any scratching. Wheel finishes are often as delicate as the paint on the vehicle and require maintenance to retain the original appearance of the wheel.
Chrome wheels require extra attention and care as chrome plating is a metalizing process. Follow the guide above more frequently when caring for chrome wheels, as they are more susceptible to the elements and abrasive wheel cleaners. If hazing or bubbling occurs on all four wheels, usually it is due to corrosive agents that have been sprayed on the surface of the wheel. Any brake dust generated should be removed immediately to prevent coking and corrosion. Chrome wheels are intended as a summer-only wheel. If used in winter or in areas where high humidity or salt content are present, take extra care to remove any corrosive agents from the wheels.