How do you maintain forged wheels?

Comprehensive Cleaning and Maintenance Guide for Car Wheels: From Stains to Scratch Repair Methods

Car wheels are the “shoes” of a vehicle, and their maintenance and appearance directly affect the overall image of the car. Use professional cleaning agents to gently remove stains while avoiding damage to the metal protective coating. To prevent scratches during daily driving, regularly rinse the car wheels to extend their lifespan. Forged wheels enhance speed due to their lightweight characteristics, and repairing scratches requires a meticulous process.

Overview of Car Wheels

Car wheels, also known as rims, are a crucial component that connects the axle to the brake drum (or brake disc) and the half shaft. They play a vital role in vehicle performance. In terms of manufacturing processes, car wheels are mainly classified into two types: cast and forged. Cast wheels are typically made of iron, while forged wheels may include aluminum or titanium, which have much greater strength than cast wheels. In racing, forged wheels are particularly popular due to their lightweight nature, which significantly reduces power loss and enhances vehicle speed.

How do you maintain forged wheels?

Car Wheel Cleaning and Maintenance

Use of Wheel Cleaners

When the surface of the car wheels is stained with difficult-to-remove dirt, professional cleaning agents come into play. These cleaners can gently and effectively remove stains while minimizing damage to the aluminum alloy surface. It is important to note that car wheels have a metal protective coating, so avoid using polish or other abrasive materials during cleaning to prevent damage.

 

Scratch Repair Process for Car Wheels

If, unfortunately, a car wheel gets scratched, there is a specific repair process to follow. First, check if the scratch affects the inner side of the wheel; if not, a simple repair can be performed. Cleaning the area around the scratch with paint thinner is essential. For the deepest scratches, use a toothpick for thorough cleaning. Next, to avoid accidentally painting unaffected areas, carefully apply masking tape around the scratch. Then, prepare a fine brush and apply touch-up paint, ensuring the paint surface is slightly higher than the surrounding area. After painting, wait about a week for the paint to dry completely. Once dried, apply soap and water to the surface and wipe it dry to make it smoother. Finally, use a polishing compound to shine and wax the repaired area for protection.

Scratch Repair Process for Car Wheels

Importance of Daily Maintenance

Car wheel maintenance is crucial. Regular upkeep is essential: neglecting wheel maintenance can lead to problems. When car wheels are hot, allow them to cool naturally before cleaning; avoid using cold water to prevent damage to aluminum alloy wheels or deformation of brake discs, which can affect braking performance. Additionally, be cautious when using cleaning agents on hot aluminum wheels to prevent chemical reactions that can dull the surface and affect appearance.

Maintenance and Aesthetics of Car Wheels

Car wheels, like the “shoes” of a car, make a significant visual impression. A perfect vehicle shape will be undermined by ordinary “shoes.” Therefore, the choice and maintenance of car wheels should not be overlooked when equipping your vehicle. When there are difficult-to-remove stains on the wheel surface, choose a professional cleaning agent that can gently and effectively remove dirt while reducing damage to the aluminum alloy surface. During cleaning, pay attention to protecting the metal protective coating of the car wheels and avoid using polish or other abrasive materials.

To maintain the beauty and durability of car wheels, drivers should be careful to avoid scratches during daily driving. If scratches or deformations occur, they should be repaired and repainted immediately. To prevent these issues, it is recommended that vehicle owners start regularly rinsing their car wheels at least once a week, ideally when the vehicle is new. First, wet the wheels with clean water, then scrub with a cleaner and sponge, and finally rinse thoroughly with plenty of water. This not only keeps the car wheels clean and visually appealing but also extends their lifespan.

July 22, 2025