Polished Alloys

[heckflosse]

What's the best wheel cleaner to use on polished alloys? I've heard most contain acid which eats away at the laquer. A local car accessorie shop has told me to just use a good car polish (Autoglym) and to spray a thin layer of WD40 on after each wash.

 

[mbzslk230k]

Try FAIRY Washing Up Liquid - believe me it works a treat ! BUT as you know, you need to wash regularly especially during winter months due to the salt content on our roads !

 

[Arnie]

I wouldn't spray WD40, as there is obviously a risk of contaminating the brakes, added to which the oily deposit will pick up more dirt and be difficult to clean off. The best thing I have found is a slightly more concentrated solution of a good body-work shampoo such as from Autoglym or Turtlewax etc, but washing up liquid, as mentioned is also good.

Best to avoid the acid solutions (Coke is pretty effective in this respect) unless your wheels are really, really, dirty.

 

[Leylandp76]

I'd avoid using Fairy or any dishwashing liquid, they are very harsh on paint and will strip the surface away in time.

I agree with Arnie's advice - use a car shampoo, maybe at slightly higher concentration although I've never found the need to vary the mix. If your lacqer's in good condition the brake dust will wash off easily. The car shampoo will probably also contain a wax which will protect the wheel lacquer just as it protects your car's paint. :idea: Use a different sponge than you use for your car, and obviously wait till after you've washed the rest of the car, or change the bucket.

 

[Tinyflier]

WheelWax

I use a product called wheel wax (www.wheelwax.net - available by mail order). It is an easy to use wax that does not build up a discolouring residue and does make it easier to wash off brake dust etc.

David

 

[mbzslk230k]

Fairy Liquid is pretty harmless given it is a product for cleaning plates etc and is food-grade

 

[heckflosse]

I tend to wash the car twice a week so brake dust hasn't been a problem. Come Winter I'll put my old alloys back on to get some use out of my old (but new) tyres. When I next polish the car I'll give them a quick coat but other than that I think I'll try to stay away from wheel cleaners.