Ok I'm a bit of an OCD when it comes to wheels. I wipe me wheels down very regularly (about every other trip). Obviously there are days I forget (imagine that). Even with all my wiping, I've noticed tiny dark specks imbedded in the wheels from the brake dust, do you think WD40 and/or clay will get rid of them? I only have the cheap-o Crown wheels, imagine if I had a nice set how fussy I'd be. :lol:
WD40 really does work wonders. It gets all the brake/rubber goo off my wheel after track days. I'd try it first, no risk and easier than a clay. Also, waxing them makes them infinitely easier to clean (if you don't already).
If you want the best without scratching of harming your rims try SONAX Wheel Cleaner Full Effect. You can buy and read about it here: SONAX Wheel Cleaner, all wheel cleaner, chrome wheel cleaner, aluminum wheel cleaner, full effect wheel cleaner The stuff is AWESOME! Just Google it or look it up on Amazon and read the reviews. I now ONLY use this product on my cars and it is one of the best products I have used in years of detailing all my personal cars.
One of our white-wheeled members swears by the Armor All wheel spray... I have used, also, but my wheels are black and my MINI is usually spotless (except for the MINI dirty butt... Grrr), so I am not the best person to judge!
I just use a good spray wax on my black (powder coat) wheels, or simply use the tire dressing overspray to gloss 'em up when need be. When they're filthy dirty (seldom) using Mothers car wash liquid soap and warm water works to cut the grime. Otherwise I just wipe 'em down regularly with a damp towel. For removing the harsh wheel dust, I use Mothers FX Wheel Cleaner. It seems safe enough on the silver wheels on our 525i and if ya use it regularly, it'll keep the pitting from happening. I don't favor the use of anything oily for obvious reasons.
Another vote for Sonax. It works wonders. If you have a pressure washer you can really do some serious cleaning.
Actually that sounds quite reasonable. I just didn't want to run out and buy a pack if you were pulling my leg. I like the idea of doing something in my garage that doesn't require rinsing off with the hose. Good idea
Maybe. They have regular and extra strength. I know the pad will break apart with use, so it is not as if you're using steel wool. Plus it is used on induction cook tops and painted walls, so I think it is mild enough for wheels. The brake dust probably does more damage to the wheel finish than the pad.
I wouldn't recommend the Mr. Clean pad. There are only a few things you need in your arsenal to maintain a decent looking wheel. First you need some good product. I use either Sonax full effect for really dirty wheels, or P21S gel for just some maintenance. For brushes I would go with the Uber Spoke Brush from Detailers Domain as well as the Swissvax wheel brush. These two should keep your wheels nice and pretty. If you find some crusted on brown spots use some detailing clay and a good clay lube to remove it, then I would recommend sealing them up with any sort of wax or sealant. A wheel specific wax would be ideal, but anything is better than nothing.
I've been looking for this Sonax stuff.... Is it only Internet order? Any local national chains carry it?
Thumbs up for Sonax Full Effect I like the Full Effect wheel cleaner but it's pretty expensive to use. I wouldn't say it's the best wheel cleaner as I've used a lot of them. It's just as effective as the Meguiar's Wheel Brightener I've used for years, but it seems less toxic and a bit safer to use. I'm in the process of becoming a Sonax dealer...just about to place my opening order with them, so if anyone is interested..no need to go to Autogeek or other non supporting vendors....you can get them through me as well. I would of course appreciate your support more than any of those bigger retailers would. Richard
Thanks Richard, I'll be contacting you. Gotta take inventory on my Prima stuff and see what I might need now that Spring is right around the corner.