It is great that, during this stressful time experienced during the pandemic, we can focus on how to take care of our mag wheels. Please ensure that you first check with your car’s manufacturer before you start to work on your car’s wheels,.1,2
Prevention is better than cure1
Highly corrosive brake dust generated through friction and intense heat attacks the magnesium alloy of wheels. Frequently clean the wheels to minimize this effect.
Clean the wheels first1
It makes sense that wheels should be cleaned before washing the car, as you don’t want any brake dust and dirt to come onto the car’s paintwork. Use a hose that releases a strong stream of water.
What alloy wheel cleaner should I use? 1
There are several makes on the market, but first, make sure from the car’s or wheels’ manufacturer which cleaner is appropriate. It doesn’t matter if your wheels are clear-coated or polished. To ensure a great finish on the wheels, these cleaners are non-acidic.
Use a bristled non-abrasive wheel brush1
Using water combined with the wheel cleaner, rotate this brush in the smallest crevices and spaces of the alloy wheel to loosen all brake dust and grime. The alloy won’t be scratched in this way. A lug nut brush can be used to clean the brake dust from around the lug nuts themselves and inside the holes.
Don’t forget to clean the wheel wells1
Wheel wells collect dirt and mud from the road while the wheel spins, and so, an all-purpose cleaner and a strong brush can be used to clean the wheel wells. Don’t use the wheel brush to clean the wheel wells.
Rinse and dry the wheels1
Spray water onto the wheel itself and the wheel well, ensuring that it reaches the lug holes and the area between the spokes. You cannot leave the wheels to dry because any water spots left behind will spoil the wheel’s finish. Use an all-purpose microfiber towel to dry the entire mag wheel.
How about polishing the wheels? 1
Ensure you have the correct wheel polish depending on what is on the surface of the alloy wheel. Only a mild polish is needed for a clear-coated allow wheel. The wrong choice could scratch or dull the alloy itself. Use another product on polished alloy wheels that have no top coating.
Using brake dust shields2
These shields help protect alloys from any brake dust coming from the brakes. In this way, you can prolong the shine of the alloys.
How do I fix damaged alloys? 2
Even though you have driven carefully, some wear and tear on the alloys is likely to occur. Sand down the damaged area and repaint.
Looking after alloy wheels to ensure they stay shiny and sparkling is one issue, but what about ensuring your car is protected at all times? Are you sure it is fully covered? Get affordable car insurance. with PMD and enjoy unique benefits like premiums that don’t increase*. T’s and C’s apply.
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
Sources:
1https://www.autogeek.net/how-to-clean-alloy-wheels.html
2https://automyze.theaa.com/content/resources/how-to-keep-your-alloys-at-their-best