zacharie

Hi,
I have browsed many threads about the proper technique for removing tar and the rusty dust from the rim of the wheel.
Many of you seem to get very well with P21s cleaner, or Zaino and Zymol, even Rejex for a proper cleaning of the wheel.

I am looking for a simple solution to remove tar and the rusty dust; defining simply by using one of the usual product we usually have at home. Apart from water and soap and good effort, I was wondering if any of you has ever used WD-40 to clean the interior of the wheel?
Do you think that WD-40 would have an armful effect on the paint finish of the wheel? I don't know the precise composition of WD-40 but I know that it contains some petroleum derivatives and no silicone.

Thanks for your comments.

houldsworth1

Zacharie,

Don't know about how well it would clean the wheel - it would probably work and most likely won't damage the finish.

However, one thing to be very careful of is how you apply it seeing as it is most likely in a spray-can. You are going to be very close to the brakes and you do NOT want to get that stuff on those suckers.

Barry

zacharie

Hi Barry,

Thank you for your comment. I will be extremely cautious about not spraying it on the brakes. Most likely, a spray on a towel and some wiping could make it work nicely.
Thank you.

JBH

Cleaning with WD-40? Why do that? You own a brand new car, why not spend a little money on a quality wheel cleaner. WD-40 will streak,pick up dust, dirt and grime.

zacharie

You are right JBH, after all...Maybe I would be better off with the wheel cleaner rather than a multi purpose product.

houldsworth1

But you seem to be missing the point! WD-40 is the holy grail of liquid ungents which can be used to handle everything from curing a squeek to improving your love life

ltc

Simple Green would be safe and readily available.

Personally, I prefer citrus based cleaners, although P21S wheel cleaner does work very well.

Tony K

Aww, and I was going to recommend using it to prevent the brake rotors from rusting!

zacharie

Come on please, is there a proper technique to clean the wheels? last sunday, I spend two hours cleaning the wheels [with only soap and water]: the final result was very good. I went around town just after that and came back home with very dirty wheels; the dirt came from the rotors which I didn't let dry before going out...and back to work again.

Rich Sandor

WD-40 can actually remove paint. I would NOT use it. Your clear coast would be gone within a year.

You should use a product that is compatible with the finish on your wheels. Some products that are safe on painted surfaces are NOT safe on bare aluminium surfaces. read the label!!

zacharie

Rich, I will listen to you and definitely put away from my car any WD-40 or corrosive product of the sort. I think I will be better off with natural soap and water, no matter if it takes more time or more energy than any wheel cleaner on the market.

Rich Sandor

Zach, just go into an auto parts store and buy a spray on wheel cleaner.

takes me 2 minutes per wheel.

Randy V

You might also consider switching to brake pads that do not produce as much dust - something like Metal Masters or Mintex reds.

jaycm

don't forget to use the petroleum jelly when you finish. like the owners manual says. it really makes mine easier to keep clean. i guess it seals all the pores in the aluminum and keeps the grime from penetrating. i use a small amount and "wax" it on. yes they get dirty pretty quick, but they sure are easier to clean.

RJT

There is a product called Wheel Wax. After you get your wheels clean, apply a coat of WW (not the same as regular wax). It wiil keep the dust from adhering to the wheels so quickly.
R