Similar to how a car's paint needs to be cleaned and properly cared for, your rims also need to be cleaned and protected from the elements. This goes double for powder-coating rims as dirt and grime will be much more apparent when dirty.
To extend the life of not only your powder-coat but also your rims, we recommend you regularly wash and clean your rims with the least aggressive method. For correct cleaning and maintenance of rims, start off with water, soap, and a soft-bristled brush. You can use the same soap used to wash your car and avoid harsh chemicals for deeper cleans. If your rims need a more thorough cleaning, we recommend using Meguiar’s Ultimate All Wheel Cleaner used according to the label’s directions. Once again, stay away from harsh chemical cleaners as many commercial cleaners can damage the finish on powder-coated rims, leading to fading, staining, and even more damage over time. Be careful not to leave ANY cleaning product on for too long as some wheel cleaners can start eating through the clear coat as well as the powder coat.
After you have dried off your rims with a microfiber towel, you can apply a detailing spray, wheel wax or sealant, such as Meguiar’s Ultimate Quik Wax, which can be sprayed on and wiped off both wet and dry parts. These sealants and waxes create a protective layer between the wheel’s surface and the outside elements. These products will help protect the rims from damage and significantly improve shine. They create a barrier and protect against dirt, brake dust, tar, and even scrapes and scratches. When looking for a wheel wax or sealant, look for those marked capable of repelling brake dust. Brake dust, if left on a wheel for more than a few weeks, is capable of slowly eating through your wheel’s clear coat. Over time, this can lead to corrosion on aluminum and chrome-plated rims.
These products will not only help protect your rims but also make washing them easier than ever. Contaminants will not penetrate the protective barrier formed by the sealant/wax and will be repelled. Those that do manage to stick on to the rims can be effortlessly taken off with a soft-bristled brush. After washing your rims, there will be little chance for water spots. As always though, we recommend drying your rims with a microfiber towel.