subject: 7 Easy Steps For Cleaning Car Wheels [print this page] Wheels support the body of the car and allow for efficient movement. Its always advisable to clean them either very early in the morning or late in the evening. Cleaning under direct sunlight allows for evaporation of water and the sticking of soap on to the wheels. This increases the amount of work one has to do. Clean wheels are a source of attraction. Its therefore important to clean them as you clean your car. Consult your manual for the best cleaning agent to use, to avoid those that will increase wear and tear. Here are some important steps you should follow when cleaning:
Gather all your cleaning tools before you start. This ensures efficiency. Tools needed include:
A sponge
Bucket of water with detergent
Wheel brush
Wheel sponge
Tire brush
Garden hose
Wheel cleaner
Mild citric acid
Microfiber cloth/ clean towels
Wheel sealant
Tire conditioner
1.Put pressure on the garden hose opening and spray the wheel. This ensures that all the loose dirt is removed. Spray the wheel cleaner on both the tire and the wheels.
2.Clean the wheels thoroughly with detergent using the sponge. Use the wheel brush to clean the inside and the outside. Ensure that you rinse regularly so as to remove tough stains left after the first wash. For stubborn stains mild citric acid does the trick. Wait for the acid to absorb a while then clean the stain off.
3.Use the tire brush to clean the tire in a circular motion. Clean the sidewalls too to ensure all the dirt and grease is removed. Rinse it too thoroughly in case you have to remove stubborn stains.
4.Rinse the wheels thoroughly using the pressurized garden hose, to remove all detergents. After this, use the microfiber cloth or clean towels to dry them.
5.Spray your wheels with a sealant (oil based recommended), this protects your wheel and makes next time cleaning a whole lot easier.
6.To prevent wear and tear and to keep them shinning, apply a tire conditioner. Apply it only on the tires and allow it to absorb for a few minutes.
7.To keep your wheels clean after you have cleaned them, use rim wax or wheel protector sprays to protect them from acids and salts. Also makes next time cleaning a whole lot easier.
Your wheels are now shinny and attractive. They make your car look classier. If they are clean on a regular basis, visits to the mechanic will be less. Your safety on the road is also assured.