HOW TO CLEAN ALUMINUM WHEELS AND RIMS

Aluminum wheels (also called alloy wheels) can shine like chrome when properly cleaned and maintained. Regular care helps prevent pitting and corrosion caused by brake dust and road grime buildup.

Aluminum wheels come in various finishes - bare, clear-coated, painted, powder-coated, or anodized. Most have a protective coating to prevent oxidation, especially bare aluminum, which can corrode quickly.

Brake dust contains carbon fibers and metal shavings that can damage wheel surfaces over time. Frequent cleaning keeps your wheels looking great and helps protect the finish.

Be cautious with harsh cleaners. Many commercial wheel cleaners contain acids or solvents that may strip protective coatings and damage finishes. These chemicals can also irritate skin and eyes and are unsafe if inhaled or ingested.

Simple Green Max Automotive safely removes brake dust, tar, and grime without harming your wheel's finish. It's non-caustic, biodegradable*, and safe on coated aluminum, chrome, and other surfaces.

DIRECTIONS FOR CLEANING ALUMINUM WHEELS AND RIMS:

Only clean wheels when they're cool to avoid warping rotors, brake discs, and more.

1. Start with the wheels. They're usually the dirtiest, so clean them first to avoid splashing grime on a clean car.
2. Rinse one wheel. Use a hose to remove loose dirt and brake dust from all crevices.
3. Apply cleaner. Spray Simple Green Max Automotive onto the wet wheel.
4. Scrub. Use a soft brush or sponge to clean spokes, barrels, and around lug nuts. Keep the surface wet and don't let the cleaner dry.
5. Rinse thoroughly. Wash away all cleaner and loosened grime.
6. Repeat steps 2–5 for the remaining wheels.
7. Wash and dry the rest of your car. For specific directions on how to do this, click here. Use a microfiber towel to dry the entire vehicle, including the wheels, for a streak-free finish.
8. Apply polish and wax. Finish aluminum wheels with a polish and wax to maintain their shine. Follow product instructions.

• Rinse wheels with soap and water whenever you wash your car.
• Deep clean every other month—or more often if buildup is visible.

NOTE: Do not clean over asphalt as it might cause pitting.

*Biodegradable formula: This formula reached 100% biodegradation within six months after typical sanitary sewer conditions per OECD 301D testing.