Alloy wheels don’t just look great because they also tend to offer superior performance. That said, they can require more attention, especially if you drive in exposed locations or dirty roads which are full of grime. Getting expert guidance is always advisable when choosing alloys suited to your style of driving. Trust Tyre Safety Centre for unparalleled value and expertise in the world of alloy wheels in Carrickfergus. In the meantime, how should you be preserving your current set?
Clean Frequently
Use a soft brush to clean alloy wheels since they can be marked by stiff bristles and the wheel-cleaning elements found in car washes. Use pH-neutral water and take extra care after driving on gritted roads if you want to maintain your wheels in optimal condition.
Apply Coatings
Alloys are best preserved with sealants or waxes that serve to counter many of the blemishes they might otherwise pick up. Choose a suitable product or seek professional advice. Always clean and dry thoroughly before applying a coating. Most manufacturers of alloy coating suggest reapplying their product every few months. This isn’t something you can ignore as a way to get you to buy more because coatings simply don’t last forever.
Avoid Chemicals
Some car cleaning products are acidic or have abrasive materials in them. Although this can help to loosen ground-in dirt, they do damage to alloys. Avoid them and stick to soap and water. Caustic substances are no good for alloys. Not only do they eat away at the coating or paintwork you might have but they eventually do damage to the wheels themselves.
Inspect Regularly
No other way of looking after your alloy wheels is beaten by regular visual inspections. If you aren’t checking your alloys, then you won’t know there is a problem. Only by looking can you pick up on minor issues before they become a bigger problem. Take a good look every week or so and up your inspection regime if you’ve recently driven a long way.
Steer Clear of Obstacles
Although alloys are generally lighter than other types of wheels, allowing for more nimble manoeuvring, they won’t get you out of trouble on the road on their own. To avoid cones, sticks and other types of road debris from knocking into your alloys, you’ll need to adjust your driving style somewhat. Many incidents with alloys occur when parking so be sure to check there’s enough space to avoid the kerb.
In conclusion, diligent maintenance practices and regular inspections are essential for preserving the appearance and performance of alloy wheels specially while travelling. By following these guidelines, drivers can prolong the lifespan of their wheels and ensure optimal performance on the road.