Clean Regularly
Clean every two weeks and whenever wheels encounter brake dust, salt, chemicals, or heavy dirt.
Wheel World Unlimited
Protect the finish.
Preserve the drive.
Proper wheel care preserves appearance, protects your investment, and helps keep your warranty valid.
The essentials
Wheel care at a glance
Keep It Mild
Use mild dish soap, clean water, and a soft microfiber cloth or soft-bristle wheel brush.
Cool First
Allow wheels to cool completely. Cold water on hot wheels can cause warping and finish damage.
Dry Immediately
Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean microfiber towel to help prevent water spots.
Why Wheel Care Matters
Typical road dirt traps moisture that, over time, can cause corrosion. Brake dust, created by braking friction, is highly corrosive and can cause permanent pitting of the wheel’s finish. Surface rust and corrosion resulting from improper care are not covered under our warranty. Regular cleaning is the single most important step in preserving the appearance and integrity of your wheels.
General Cleaning
Clean your wheels regularly, ideally every two weeks or any time they are exposed to brake dust, road salt, chemicals, or heavy dirt.
For most finishes, mild dish soap and water is all you need. Apply with a soft microfiber cloth or a dedicated wheel brush with soft bristles. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry immediately with a clean microfiber towel to prevent water spots.
Important: Always allow wheels to cool completely before cleaning. Never spray cold water on hot wheels, as rapid temperature changes can cause warping and finish damage.
Protect your finish
What to Avoid
- Never use acidic, alkaline, or abrasive cleaners. These will permanently damage the finish.
- Never use steel wool, scouring pads, or household cleaning products.
- Never use automatic car washes with harsh brushes, steam cleaners, or strong chemical treatments. These can cause permanent staining or corrosion.
- Never use tire dressing products that contain petroleum distillates. These will deteriorate the wheel finish over time.
Finish-Specific Care
Chrome-Plated Aluminum
Clean using mild dish soap and water. Dry with a soft cloth. After cleaning, apply a coat of soft, non-abrasive cream wax or wheel seal to prevent surface corrosion.
Painted and Clear-Coated
Clean using mild dish soap and water. Dry with a soft cloth.
Machined and Clear-Coated
Clean using mild dish soap and water. Dry with a soft cloth.
PVD Coated
Clean using mild dish soap and water. Dry with a soft cloth.
Polished Aluminum (Not Clear-Coated)
Clean using mild dish soap and water. Dry with a soft cloth. The appearance of polished wheels that are not clear coated will diminish over time unless they receive additional care and maintenance. After cleaning, apply a coat of soft, non-abrasive cream wax or wheel seal. A specially formulated wheel polish and wheel seal is recommended to restore shine to oxidized wheels. The finish on polished aluminum wheels is not covered under warranty.
Chrome-Plated Steel
Clean using mild dish soap and water. Dry with a soft cloth. After cleaning, apply a coat of soft, non-abrasive cream wax or wheel seal to prevent surface corrosion. Surface corrosion and rust can be prevented with proper care and are not covered under warranty.
Matte and Satin Finishes
Matte and satin finishes require special attention. Never use gloss-enhancing products, polishes, or sealants on matte or satin finished wheels. These will permanently alter the appearance and void finish coverage. Use only products specifically formulated for matte finishes.
Protective Maintenance
Apply a wheel-safe sealant or non-abrasive cream wax every three to six months to protect the finish and make routine cleaning easier. Inspect your wheels regularly for chips, cracks, or finish damage and address any issues immediately before they worsen.
After an Impact
If you hit a curb, pothole, or any hard object, or are involved in an accident, have your wheels inspected immediately by a qualified professional. Even minor impacts can cause structural damage that is not visible to the eye. If any damage is found, replace the wheel immediately. Driving on a damaged wheel is dangerous and will void your warranty.
Safety first
When to Seek Professional Help
If you notice any bending, cracking, structural damage, or severe finish deterioration, stop driving on the wheel immediately and consult a professional.
For questions about caring for your specific wheel finish, contact us at Services@wheelworldunlimited.com.