WHEEL CLEANING AND CARE
Wheel Cleaning and Care
Work Wheels are engineered and finished to a very high standard. To keep them looking their best and to prevent long-term damage, correct cleaning and regular maintenance are essential.
Multi-piece wheels typically feature anodised barrels, while one-piece wheels are made from high-quality aluminium alloy and protected by a durable surface coating. Exposure to brake dust, road grime, salt, and moisture means proper care is critical.
Why Proper Wheel Care Matters
- Brake dust is corrosive and can stain or pit the surface
- Salt, mud, tar and moisture can cause oxidation and discolouration
- Water spots occur when mineral deposits remain after evaporation
- Regular light cleaning prevents harsh “deep clean” damage
What You’ll Need
- Clean water (cool, not hot)
- pH-neutral car wash soap
- Soft microfibre wash mitt or towel
- Separate clean microfibre towel for drying
- Optional: soft detailing brush (non-abrasive)
Discolouration & Water Spotting
Discolouration and water spotting are commonly caused by brake dust, minerals in water, and environmental contaminants being left on the wheel surface for extended periods. Dry wheels immediately after washing and avoid harsh chemicals to reduce the risk of permanent staining.
To minimise spotting
- Wash only when wheels are cool
- Avoid washing in direct sunlight
- Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately
- Hard-water area? Filtered water can help (optional)
Do & Don’t – Best Practices
✅ DO
- Clean wheels only when they are cool
- Wash regularly to prevent brake dust build-up
- Use pH-neutral cleaning products
- Use plenty of water when cleaning
- Dry wheels thoroughly after washing
⛔ DON’T
- Don’t use strong acidic, alkaline, or abrasive cleaners
- Don’t use metal brushes or harsh scrubbing pads
- Don’t rely on automatic car washes
- Don’t steam clean wheels or decals
- Don’t pressure wash too close to the surface
Wheel Cleaning Steps
Rinse
Rinse the wheel lightly with clean water to remove loose debris and brake dust before washing.
Gentle Wash
Use a microfibre or soft towel with generous amounts of water and pH-neutral soap. Avoid abrasive tools or harsh scrubbing.
Dry Completely
Once clean, dry the wheel completely with a clean microfibre towel to prevent water spotting.
Maintain
Maintain this process consistently to keep your wheels clean and protect the finish long-term.
Finish-Specific Care Notes
- Anodised finishes: Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners
- Polished lips: Never use abrasives
- Matte finishes: Avoid gloss or shine products
- Decals: Avoid steam and aggressive pressure washing
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
- Weekly / fortnightly: Daily-driven vehicles
- After heavy rain or beach driving: As soon as possible
- After track use: Once wheels have fully cooled
- Stored vehicles: Clean before storage and inspect periodically
Need Help?
If you’re unsure about your wheel finish or whether a product is safe to use, contact us before applying it. You can also send a photo of your wheels and the product label for advice.
Contact JDM Concept