Q&A for How to Clean Alloy Wheels

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Question

Is it beneficial to clean the wheel through the spokes to the rear?

Community Answer

Yes, try to clean the drum, as over time, the buildup can eat into the metal.

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Question

How can I get the scratches out of the wheels?

Community Answer

Scratches that dig into the metal of the wheel will require a complete removal of the wheel's paint/coating and sanding on the affected region.

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Question

How do I get the brownish residue that got on the wheels and back of car when the brakes were grinding and spitting off? It is a rust-like residue.

Community Answer

Use an oven cleaner. First try using soap and water, then use the oven cleaner. It is recommended to use gloves when brushing the oven cleaner onto the wheels. Leave the cleaner on the wheels for about 10 minutes. To ensure that the cleaner doesn't get ahead of you, clean one wheel at a time.

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Question

Do these cleaning tips reduce the build-up of brake dust?

Community Answer

Regular cleaning of the rims will remove the build-up of brake dust as well as make future cleaning much easier, but regular cleaning will not stop the accumulation of brake dust.

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Question

Can I use a Mr. Clean Eraser to clean alloy wheels?

Community Answer

Many say it's okay, others say not to use because it may take off clearcoat. I say that it is okay to use a magic eraser on wheels but scrub lightly.

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Question

What household items can I use to clean my car rims?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Try using vinegar or lemon juice for a natural cleaning option. Simply pour some distilled white vinegar or lemon juice into a spray bottle and apply it to your rims. The naturally occurring acid in either of them will cut through the dirt and grime on your rims so you can scrub them clean.

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Question

How do you remove oxidation from alloy wheels?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

To get rid of rust and oxidation on your alloy rims, use a foaming oven cleaner. Wet down the entire wheel with a hose to get rid of loose dirt from the surface. Then, apply the oven cleaner according to the directions on the packaging and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub the wheels with a soft-bristled detailing brush to remove the oxidation.

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Question

Will vinegar clean aluminum wheels?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Yes, distilled white vinegar is a great natural cleaning option you can use on your aluminum wheels. Fill a spray bottle with the vinegar, spray down your wheels, and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. Then, use a fine-bristled brush to scrub the wheels clean. Rinse the wheels clean with a hose afterward.

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