| Everybody understands the need to protect an | | | | 3) Remember, wheels not tires -- The same liquid |
| investment. Write out a big fat check for anything | | | | cleaner you use on your tires could very well damage |
| and you want to feel like you've bought something | | | | or stain your wheels. Be very careful that you don't |
| that will last and look as new as possible for as long | | | | use the same cleaner for both -- or, if you do, that |
| as possible. That's no different when you've made | | | | the directions on the cleaner allow for you to wash |
| the plunge and purchased custom wheels for your | | | | both wheels and tires. |
| car. | | | | 4) Why not water? -- Often the simplest thing is the |
| Your shiny new wheels aren't likely to stay new for | | | | best for your important investment. A mild soap and |
| long especially if you have a hankerin' to drive around | | | | water solution wiped down with a soft cloth is likely |
| and show them off -- and why wouldn't you want to | | | | all that you need to bring the shine back to your |
| do that? So there are a few things you need to | | | | wheels. Some soft wax cleaners are designed for the |
| know to keep your custom wheels looking sharp. | | | | aftermarket products and could also be an option. |
| 1) Leave the bristles at home -- Avoid cleaning with | | | | Failing that, check the acid content on your cleaning |
| bristles or steel wool or anything that will scratch the | | | | solutions to make sure you are in the clear. |
| surfaces of your wheels. Use instead a soft cloth or | | | | 5) Once a week wash -- Let brake dust accumulate |
| rag that will get out the gunk and grime without | | | | on your wheels week after week and you will soon |
| leaving a mark. Likewise it's probably not a good idea | | | | find that your hard-earned money has gone to |
| to roll through a commercial car wash unless you are | | | | waste. But take the time once a week to clean |
| sure it is safe. | | | | those wheels and you'll see it'll be well worth the time |
| 2) Wait -- If you've been driving for a spell and your | | | | and effort. |
| wheels have become nice and dirty, your first | | | | Like anything, once you get in the habit of cleaning |
| tendency will be to jump out of your car and turn on | | | | your custom wheels, you will figure out fairly quick |
| the hose. But you shouldn't try to wash your wheels | | | | what works the best and what doesn't. But these |
| while they are hot. This can lead to warping and | | | | tips ought to point you in the right direction and |
| discoloration. So simply be patient and hold off until | | | | make your new investment some of the best |
| your wheels have cooled off. | | | | money you've ever spent. |