How to clean really dirty aluminum rims?

This post covers everything you need to know about cleaning aluminum rims, especially when they are really dirty. In this article, we will teach you the best techniques and products to make your rims shine like new, along with addressing specific cleaning challenges such as removing black stains and stripping rims.

How to Clean Really Dirty Aluminum Rims

To clean extremely dirty aluminum rims, follow these steps:

1. Rinse Thoroughly: Start by rinsing the rims with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Use a Wheel Cleaner: Apply a specialized wheel cleaner designed for aluminum. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down grime.
3. Scrub the Rims: Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub away stubborn dirt. Focus on hard-to-reach areas and grooves.
4. Rinse Again: After scrubbing, rinse off the cleaner thoroughly.
5. Dry and Polish: Wipe the rims dry with a microfiber cloth and apply a metal polish for extra shine.

How to Clean Aluminum Rims

For regular cleaning of aluminum rims:

1. Rinse Off Dirt: Spray the rims with water to remove loose dirt.
2. Apply Cleaner: Use a pH-balanced wheel cleaner safe for aluminum.
3. Brush and Scrub: Gently scrub using a soft brush to prevent scratching.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse off the cleaner and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

How to Remove Black from Aluminum Rims

To remove black stains or brake dust from aluminum rims:

1. Use a Degreaser: Apply a degreasing solution or wheel cleaner designed to break down brake dust and black stains.
2. Let It Sit: Allow the product to sit for a few minutes to dissolve the buildup.
3. Scrub with a Soft Brush: Scrub the stained areas gently with a brush or sponge.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse away the cleaner and grime, ensuring all residue is removed.

How to Strip Aluminum Rims

If you need to strip aluminum rims for refinishing:

1. Clean the Surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the rims to remove any dirt or grease.
2. Apply Paint Stripper: Use a chemical paint stripper specifically designed for aluminum. Apply it evenly across the surface.
3. Scrape Off Coating: After the stripper has worked, use a plastic scraper to remove the old paint or coating.
4. Rinse and Polish: Rinse the rims well and polish them for a smooth finish.

What is the Best Product to Clean Rims?

The best products for cleaning aluminum rims include:

1. Wheel Cleaners: Products like Meguiar’s Ultimate All Wheel Cleaner or Sonax Wheel Cleaner are great for tough grime.
2. Degreasers: Griot’s Garage Heavy-Duty Wheel Cleaner works well for removing brake dust and grease.
3. Polishes: For a shiny finish, use a metal polish like Mothers Aluminum Polish.

We hope this article helped you learn how to effectively clean your aluminum rims. By following these steps and using the right products, your rims will look brand new in no time.