How to Clean the Tires on Your Car

Does your idea of cleaning your car's tires involve a quick slosh of a soapy sponge followed by a quick hosing-off? You might want to consider a more thorough cleaning that is highly beneficial for you and your tires. Not only does it make the tires look nice, a good wash job allows you to keep regular watch on wear-and-tear. This helps prevent unexpected blow-outs from worn or damaged tires.

Things You'll Need

• Tire dressing
• Pre-treatment
• Garden hose
• Soft towel
• Soft brush
• Car soap

Instructions

1. Wet the tires using a garden hose and water. If there is a lot of tar, road debris or film from brake fluid on them, you may wish to spray them with a pre-treatment product prior to beginning the washing step.

2. Use a soft brush and car soap to scrub the tires briskly, using a circular motion to loosen any dried-on dirt. A brush that is too firm could scratch the rims or hub caps on your car.

3. Rinse with clean water. If the tires still look dirty, repeat the previous steps.

4. Dry the tires with a soft towel.

5. Spray on a tire dressing which is available in any hardware or discount store with an automotive section. This will act like a protectant much like wax does for the car body, helping to keep the tires in better shape.

Tips & Warnings

• For white wall tires, use a S.O.S. pad or some other kind of cleaning pad.

• Should you find a nail or screw imbedded in the tread of the tires, do not remove it. Take your car to a mechanic or tire store to make sure there is not a hole in it.