You Spent Good Money on Your New Set of Fuel Wheels, Tuff Wheels or Moto Metal Wheels So You Will Want to Treat Them Right

In our last post, we began laying out the information you need to know to properly clean your custom truck wheels. Because, as you know all too well, a truck with clean wheels is a truck that turns heads and garners the attention you so desire. Besides, you spent good money on your new set of Fuel wheels, Tuff wheels or Moto Metal wheels so you will want to treat them right so they give you years of great service and fantastic looks.

We already touched upon the fact that some wheel manufacturers have warranty provisions that state their wheels can only be cleaned with water and a mild soap or you risk voiding the warranty. So keep this in mind when you are ready to clean your custom truck wheels.

Now, here are some tips in cleaning your wheels based on their material.

Clear Coated and OEM Painted Wheels

For maximum protection, most alloy wheels are either clear-coated or painted. Clear coat layers consist of a urethane film and sticky backing that hardens on the wheel and has no color. It is applied to prevent the wheel from being scratched and the paint dulling over time. These types of wheels can be cleaned with soap and water or you can choose to clean them with a recommended wheel cleaners to help remove grime and brake dust from the wheel.

Chrome Wheels

Chrome is a special kind of plating that is applied to the surface of the wheel and is very popular. Chrome wheels need to be kept clean because when dirt and other contaminants get between the chrome and the wheel it can cause the chrome finish to peel off. Because of this, many wheels experts recommend against using chrome wheels in wintery conditions. It is recommended you use a formulated chrome wheel cleaner to clean your wheels. These types of cleaners will lift dirt from the wheel surface without causing harm to the chrome.

Machined Finish Wheels

Machined wheels are aluminum wheels that have been shaped on a lathe. These truck wheels have passed through a process in which they are finely cut and polished and the aluminum is left with a subtle sheen. Often, these type of wheels are left unfinished, but sometimes a clear coat is applied. You risk literally sanding down your wheels if you clean them with anything abrasive like a steel wool pad. It is recommended you clean your machined-finish wheels with a gentle wheel cleaning product.

Matte Finish Wheels

A matte finish wheel is made by using a paint that dries with a rough surface full of pits and other imperfections that diffuse light and makes the wheel non-reflective. You will want to avoid traditional wheel cleaners as they will fill up the imperfections and ruin the finish. It is recommended that you use a specially formulated cleaner made specifically for wheels with a matte finish.

So there you have it, a real nice guide on how to properly wash your custom truck wheels.