Upholding the shine on your aluminum wheels not only improves the appearance of your vehicle but also increases their life. Brake dust, road filth, and inclement weather can all eventually degrade and tarnish aluminum wheels. Your wheels can look brand new and be shielded against corrosion and other harm by routine polishing. This page will walk you through the aluminum wheel polishing procedure so you can always have that showroom sheen. We’ll also feature some well-known, stylish and high-quality manufacturers like Azara and Vortek Wheels.
Materials and Tools Needed
Get together all the equipment and materials you’ll need before you begin. Everything will be at hand, which will facilitate and speed up the procedure.
Cleaning Supplies
To clean the wheels without scratching them, you’ll need soft brushes or sponges, mild soap and warm water for an initial clean, and a high-quality wheel cleaner that is safe for aluminum.
Polishing Supplies
To guarantee superior gloss and protection, you need aluminum polish, which is made especially for aluminum. Perfect for applying and buffing polish without leaving lint or scratches are microfiber towels. If you own a polishing equipment, polishing pads or buffing wheels will help you do the work more quickly and professionally.
Protective Gear
Remember your safety equipment. While safety glasses cover your eyes from splashes and debris, gloves shield your hands from chemicals and grime.
Preparation
Parking the Vehicle on a Flat Surface
Put your car in a level, sturdy spot first. Working on the wheels is made safe and stable by this.
Removing the Wheels (Optional)
Removing the wheels can facilitate polishing, although it’s not essential. It makes it simpler to get to every part of the wheel and polish it more completely. Make sure your automobile is securely jack-up and supported if you decide to take out the wheels.
Initial Cleaning
Starting with a hose rinse, get rid of any loose dirt and debris from the wheels. To all parts of the wheels, liberally apply wheel cleaner. Scrub the wheels with soft brushes or sponges, being sure to get into any crevices where dirt gathers. At last, give the wheels a good water rinse and a clean towel to dry them entirely.
Polishing Process
Applying the Aluminum Polish
Check to be sure the polish you select is made especially for aluminum. Both the metal is protected and greater results are guaranteed. Onto a microfiber towel or polishing pad, squeeze a tiny bit of polish. It goes a long way, so start with a little and add more as needed.
Polishing by Hand
Spot-on the polish to the wheel with a microfiber towel. With little, circular motions, work the polish into the aluminum. Oxidation is reduced and polish is distributed more evenly as a result.
Polishing with a Machine
If using a polishing machine, fasten the polishing pad to the buffing wheel. Once the machine is turned on, gently press it up against the wheel and move it in circles. Move the pad constantly to prevent burn marks on the aluminum. Make sure you equally coat every part of the wheel. Get a uniform shining by taking your time.
Finishing Touches
Inspecting the Wheels
Look over the wheels very carefully after polishing to see if you missed anything. Brush out any dull areas with a little extra shine.
Final Buffing
Give the wheels one last rub with a clean, new microfiber towel. This leaves the polish looking high shine and removes any leftovers. Buff the wheels till you’re happy with the gloss. This last stage guarantees they look their best.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your aluminum wheels looking their best, regular maintenance is key.
Regular Cleaning Schedule
Frequently cleaning your wheels can help to keep dirt and grime from building up. Your wheels will look fantastic and polishing will be made easy with a fast clean every week or so.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals
Steer clear of abrasive cleaners and strong chemicals on your wheels. The polish may be removed and the aluminum damaged by them. Keep to items that are safe for wheels made of aluminum.
Using Wheel Protectant
After polishing, think about slapping on a wheel protector. This will facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance of the wheels by shielding them from dirt, brake dust, and other impurities.
The Wellness Wheel with Regina Fridkin(Opens in a new browser tab)
Conclusion
Rewarding and protecting your aluminum wheels from damage, polishing them improves the look of your car. You can polish at home to a professional level with the correct equipment and methods. To maintain your wheels looking their best, don’t forget to gather all of your supplies, polish slowly, and adhere to a regular maintenance schedule.
Polishing your wheels will greatly enhance their appearance, regardless of brand—Azara, Vortek, or any other. Particularly black color wheels gain most from routine polishing since it keeps them looking sleek and fashionable.
Your aluminum wheels will look fantastic and last for many years if you follow our advice. Have fun polishing!