Treat your freshly reconditioned alloy wheels with care. If you’ve recently had your alloy wheels repaired, painted or powder coated, we suggest that you follow our guidelines to ensure great looking wheels over the long haul.
How to Care for Your Alloy Wheel Repair in the First Month
- First 24 hours – hands off; do not wash freshly reconditioned wheels.
- Light rain or brief water contact should not damage your wheels. However, a great deal of rain, a high-pressure spray, or prolonged immersion can damage the clearcoat.
- After 24 hours – wash the wheels by hand. During the first 4 weeks, wash the wheels by hand only.
Proper Cleaning and Care of Your Alloy Wheel Repair
Never wash wheels when they are hot. Always cool hot wheels with plain water before using soap. Road dirt, grime, salt and brake pad dust must be washed off thoroughly. If not, these substances can damage the finish and cause corrosion.
After 4 weeks you can use an acid-free cleaning agent on the wheels. Any cleaner that uses acid will damage the clear coat and substrate.
Never use abrasive polish or other abrasive agents for wheel care. If the protective layer of the clearcoat becomes damaged, it should be repaired immediately.
Avoid Car Washes After an Alloy Wheel Repair
Alignment rails on most car washes were designed before the arrival of the newer, “low pro” tire style. With high sidewall tires, the rim never gets near the rail. Low profile tires allow the rim to ride below the top of the alignment rail, which can easily damage the edge of the wheel.
Hand care is the best treatment for premium wheels. If you must use a car wash, try to find a “touchless” style system and avoid those places with alignment rails.
When in Doubt, Ask Your Local Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists
For more information on the care of your newly repaired alloy wheels and to answer any other questions you may have, please contact the Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists location near you.