How to Clean Aluminum Rims
Aluminum rims can be very becoming on a car. Dirt and grime can build up very quickly on rims just through every day use. This can make them not quite as stunning. When cleaning aluminum rims, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. If you do not use the proper chemicals and cleaning techniques, you can scratch the surface of the aluminum and ruin the finish. If you need to know how to clean your aluminum rims, this article will outline the steps that you need to take.
Things You'll Need
- Rubber cleaning gloves
- An aluminum cleaning solution
- Paper towels
- A garden hose
Instructions
-
-
1
Put on some rubber cleaning gloves. When working with chemicals, it’s always better to be cautious. The cleaning chemicals that are used to clean aluminum rims can irritate the skin.
-
2
Spray the rims down with an aluminum cleaning solution. Eagle One A2Z tire and wheel cleaning solution is safe to use on anodized, clear coated, factory painted and chrome rims. If you have any other type of aluminum finish on your rims, using the wrong type of chemicals can strip the finish right off. So double check the label on whatever cleaning solution you decide to use.
-
-
3
Let soak for around 15 minutes. This will help lift any stuck on dirt off of the rim before any physical cleaning occurs.
-
4
Wipe the rim down with a soft paper towel. This will help get rid of the stuck on dirt on the rim. Avoid pushing too hard, as any rock and dirt particles that are stuck underneath the paper towel as you are wiping can cause scratches on the rim.
-
5
Rinse the rim down with a garden hose. Rinse from the top of each rim to the bottom. This will push all of the dirt towards the bottom and off of the rim.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you do not have a clear coat on your rim, get one. Clear coats create an invisible barrier on the rim that helps protect it from scratches. Having a clear coat can also keep in some of the luster of the rim.