Be sure to get the spokes and in-between lug nuts, as well. Then, wipe them down with a lint-free towel. Once you have finished applying the wax or sealant, rinse the rims again. Rinse the wheel regularly and keep it wet as you work to prevent water spots. To use the polish, dip a cloth into the product and rub it over the aluminum in small sections. These can be found online, at a superstore, or at an auto supply store. If the aluminum has heavy oxidation, you’ll want to use a commercial metal polish designed for bare aluminum. Repeat as necessary until the aluminum is down to the bare metal. This mild acid-based cleaner helps to remove oxidation, hard water spots, and minor pitting from the aluminum surface. Start by spraying the rims with an aluminum cleaner such as Busch Aluminum Wash. After the aluminum has been cleaned, it’s important to rinse it off before you apply any cleaners or polishes. The first step in removing salt damage and oxidation from aluminum is to clean the wheels thoroughly. You’re dealing with bare aluminum if no black residue is left behind. You can test for a coating by applying a little polish to a soft, clean microfiber cloth and wiping it away. You can check XM Wheels if you want assistance in this regard. Once the rims are cleaned, polish them to remove residual oxidation and reveal the shiny surface underneath. You may have to scrub at a few hard-to-reach areas, but it’s worth it for the flawless finish you’ll achieve. This will remove most of the oxidation and contaminants that make your rims look dull. It’s essential to regularly clean aluminum rims for a glossy shine and performance that lasts. If no black residue is present, the rims have a clear coating and are safe to be cleaned.Īluminum is a light and durable metal used to make wheels and rims that add a distinctive flair to your car. When you wipe off the polish with a clean microfiber cloth, if black residue appears on the rag, the wheels are uncoated and have oxidation. These products are readily available in auto parts stores and home improvement centers.īefore you apply a refinishing product, ensure your rims have a coating. In that case, you can refinish your 24 inch wheels by applying an automotive refinishing product that restores the shine of bare aluminum. Luckily, you want to save money and aren’t worried about your wheels looking too shabby. In addition, abrasive brake pad residue can etch into the surface of unfinished aluminum. During a standard drive, tiny airborne contaminants like dirt, road salt, sand, gravel, sticks, brake dust, and more stick to the wheels and cause them to corrode quickly. Unfinished or bare aluminum wheels are much more prone to oxidation than those with paint or a clear coat. Fortunately, it’s not hard to clean and polish aluminum wheels so that they look new again. You have bare aluminum if the aluminum leaves a black residue on the rag.Īluminum wheels give your car a great look and feel, but they can become dirty and oxidize faster than steel ones. This isn’t hard to do.įirst, check for a clear coating on the aluminum. Aluminum rims and wheels are expensive and must be protected from corrosion or oxidation.
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