Custom wheel cleaning

I have custom wheels on a 2003 Tacoma. It just seems like they are always dull and filthy. Does anyone know of a product that can clean and give some layer of protection for at least a few weeks?

 

Honestly the best thing I have found is a ceramic sealer. Brake dust and grime come off easily when washing the truck

 

Ceramic would be a good way to go. Just be careful with the cleaning products that you use - some of the brake dust removers have an acid in it that can ruin certain finishes. Stay away from the purple brake dust cleaners. I’d recommend using a very mild cleaner or even just soap, then a ceramic prep and ceramic coating.

 

For cleaning I use Dark Fury from superior products, you can get it at O'Reilly's and follow the dilution instructions, then you can seal them with a ceramic product of your choice.

 

I would disagree. The "purple" brake dust cleaners - aka, iron removers - are generally very safe on wheels. Of course, read the bottle and know what you're using and what you're using it on. IronX, for example, is an acid-free, pH neutral iron remover and will work on bare aluminum as well as anodized, painted, powder coated or clear coated wheels.

The ones you need to watch our for are the "all in one" type cleaners which include the iron remover but which may not be safe for all finishes. It's the "wheel cleaners" that you need to beware of as many have fairly harsh chemicals and can damage various materials and coatings. Read the labels, do some research, test in an inconspicuous area.

Personally, I think iron removers are a CRITICAL part of keeping wheels clean and preventing any long term build up from brake dust. And, can prevent the need to ever use harsh chemicals in the first place.

 

Change your pads to a less dusty pad like Powerstop and you'll have a huge reduction in brake dust on the wheels.