Best maintenance tips to extend the life of alloy wheels by wheel doctor

Vehicle owners presently value alloy wheels more than their counterparts. The reason is obvious, these wheels enhance performance, fetch good resale prices, and are visibly stunning. However, these wheels require regular attention to perform at their best. The lack of proper maintenance can make them lose their shine, develop cracks, or even make them vulnerable to long-term damage.

The best part is that keeping these wheels in the best shape does not involve any rocket science. As a passionate car owner who prefers to make their alloy wheels appear fresh all the time, this guide will help you maintain it accurately. Moreover, these tips are from the best wheel doctor alias the best and most experienced wheel repair experts.

Clean the wheels regularly

It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain alloy wheels. Regular cleaning would ensure elements like dirt, brake dust, and road grime do not damage it as each of the aforesaid items is corrosive. To elaborate further, brake dust generally contains tiny metal particles which if left unattended can fade away the wheel’s finish. Similarly, road salt and moisture can lead to corrosion.

Never use harsh chemicals

Presently, car owners have the convenience of choosing from a wide array of cleaning agents. Some of them are labeled as “deep clean” and some of these cleaners contain acids or alkalis. These items aren’t the best choice for alloy wheels as they will eventually ruin their finish. Strong wheel cleaners do work better but often come at a long-term cost. Therefore, when preparing to clean the wheels, you should stick to wheel-specific products or simply use water with a mild car shampoo. Never miss out on reading the product labels. Avoid items that are labeled as unsafe for aluminum and not for painted surfaces.

Wax or seal the wheels

Alloy wheels can also benefit when you apply a protective coat over it just like the car’s body. Wax can be a good option as it acts as a barrier, preventing brake dust and grime from sticking to the surface. It also makes the cleaning procedure much easier and maintains the shine.

The best time to apply wax is after cleaning and drying the wheels. Apply a thin layer of wheel wax and let it cure as instructed. Once done, you can wipe it gently. For best results, reapply wax at an interval of 4-6 weeks.

Inspect for damage regularly

Unfortunately, most car owners take note of wheel damage when the condition becomes too serious, like vibrations, alignment issues, or visible cracks. Regular inspection can save you a lot of time and money. Watch out for curb rash, bends or cracks, and discoloration. Remember, even minor surface imperfections can become a widespread problem if ignored. Thus, whenever you spot anything unusual, get the wheels inspected by an experienced professional.

Rotate the tires regularly

We all know, that rotating tires is a standard practice, yet, many car owners overlook its effect that can determine the current condition of the wheel. Uneven tire wear can put a lot of stress on the wheels, especially the front ones, which are meant to handle braking and steering. When you rotate the tires you can ensure balanced load distribution, and reduce wear and tear on the wheels. Ideally, you should rotate the tires after every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers or during every scheduled service.

Protect wheels from weather conditions

Factors like rain, snow, road salt, and UV rays can each have long-term ill effects on the alloy wheels. Thus, during winter months, you should wash wheels more frequently to remove salt and slush. You can also opt for applying a hydrophobic sealant to repel water and prevent oxidation. During the summer season, try and park the car in the shade or under a covered area.

Drive carefully

Yes, the present-gen cars boast excellent suspension systems. However, you must keep in mind, that despite having the best suspension, bad roads can be detrimental for the wheels. Even a single pothole can lead to bends, cracks, or misalignment.

When driving, you should slow down when approaching potholes or speed breakers. Try to avoid curbs while parking. Lastly. Steer clear of sharp debris or construction zones whenever possible.

Go for professional restoration whenever it is indispensable

Despite your best efforts, wheels can still incur damages. In such cases, professional alloy wheel repair and restoration is the best solution. These experienced people have the skills to bring back your wheels to life. So, consider a professional service when the wheels have a deep curb rash, bent wheels, fading or peeling finishes, or if you prefer a new look with the help of powder coating or color change. These professionals can fix the issue without compromising the safety or structural integrity of the wheel.

We hope these tips from the experts will help you maintain the alloy wheels for a long duration. Wheels are an integral part of your vehicle, so always pay attention to them to keep your driving experience the best.