Taking care of your wheels is a necessary part of car maintenance. Your wheels are the parts of the car that physically touch the ground, and they take a lot of abuse from the elements. Keeping your wheels clean and in good shape not only helps protect them from damage, but also improves your vehicle’s overall performance. Here are some tips to help you take care of your wheels.
Should you wash rims first or last?
It’s important that you clean your tires before painting because they are usually the dirtiest part of your car. If you wait to wash them until after you paint, there is a chance that dirt and brake dust will getsplashed back onto the newly cleaned surface.
1. Clean your wheels regularly
This will help you prevent dirt, grime, and road salt from building up in the wheel wells and damaging the metal or plastic parts of your wheels. Use a mild soap solution and a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt, then rinse with clean water.
2. Inspect your wheels periodically
Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as chips or scratches. If you find any damage, take your car to a professional mechanic to get it fixed as soon as possible. Also make sure that the lug nuts are properly torqued and that all of the wheel’s components are in good working order.
3. Keep your wheels properly inflated
Under-inflated tires will decrease your car’s fuel efficiency and increase the chances of a blowout or other tire failure. Check your car’s recommended tire pressure levels and make sure to adjust accordingly.
4. Balance and align your wheels
This helps ensure that your tires are evenly distributed across the road surface, which will prolong the life of your tires and improve steering accuracy. Having your wheels balanced and aligned regularly can also help you avoid costly repairs down the line.
5. Invest in quality wheel covers
Wheel covers protect your wheels from the elements, such as rain and snow. They also help maintain the aesthetic appeal of your car by preventing dirt buildup. Make sure to invest in quality covers that are designed specifically for your vehicle’s wheels.
Should you wax your wheels?
It’s best to avoid waxing your wheels, as this could lead to a buildup of wax that may interfere with the adherence of your wheel covers.
What happens if you don’t clean wheels?
The dirt and grime on your wheels not only looks bad, but brake dust can also stick to the clear coat of your rims. If you don’t clean it properly, corrosion may occur. That is why when you start washing your car, begin with the parts that touch the ground first – even though it seems counterintuitive.
Conclusion
Taking care of your wheels is an important part of car maintenance and can help you avoid costly repairs down the line. Follow these simple tips to keep your wheels clean and in good shape, so that they can continue to perform at their best. Additionally, be sure to invest in quality wheel covers to protect them from the elements and maintain their aesthetics. Taking good care of your wheels is one way to ensure that your car runs smoothly for many years.