Alloys are a mix of two or more metals, typically copper and zinc. These metals can be combined to produce brass, bronze, nickel silver or sterling silver. The best way to keep them looking their best is by cleaning them regularly with metal polishes. This will remove any tarnish that has built up on the surface over time. You should also store your alloys in airtight containers when not in use and use cotton cloths rather than paper towels, which can contain chemicals that may cause corrosion over time.
Our team at DW Motor Services has offered a range of alloy wheel refurbishment and repair services for several years; during this time, we have developed and honed our skills. Growing our understanding has helped us expand our knowledge; due to this, we can give the best advice and guidance on alloys possible; read our latest blog post to find out our top tips for looking after your alloy wheels.
Do You Wash Your Car Often?
When it comes to taking care of your alloys, one of the best ways to start is by carrying out regular cleans on your car; keeping a regular washing schedule doesn’t just protect your alloys but your whole car. One of the biggest causes of damage for alloys is dirt and debris; your car needs regular cleaning to keep it from building up and causing scratches.
By keeping a regular cleaning schedule, you are removing the risk of debris and dirt causing damage to the metal on your car, whether this is for the alloys or the bodywork. You want to keep your whole car safe, not just the alloy wheels.
Brake Dirt; It Is A Killer
Has it ever crossed your mind the amount of dirt and debris that will come off your breaks during a drive? It is a mixture of adhesive, carbon fibres, and small metal shavings that come directly off your brake pads; when this isn’t dealt with, it can cause severe damage to your alloy wheels. This mixture of materials makes a highly corrosive property; this will undoubtedly break down your alloy wheels, taking away the varnish cover and starting to damage the alloy unless it is regularly cleaned off.
The best way to keep on top of your alloy wheels is by using a stiff or rigid brush and a steamer if you have access to one or a bucket of hot water. Regular steam will keep the adhesive and carbon fibres from building up and help remove all the small shavings that come off your brake pads; you should always clean your alloy wheels to remove dirt; it is one of the most damaging causes of alloy wheel damage.
Polish Your Alloy Wheels
After cleaning the dirt and debris off your alloy wheels, polishing is another way to protect them from any damage. By using a high-quality polish on your alloys, they will look brand new in no time at all. All you need to do is put the polish on, leave it for a few minutes and then polish it off; the more elbow grease you use, the better your alloys will look.
All you need to do is double-check the polish you have chosen works on your alloy wheels; you need to check whether it is suitable for aluminium, coated, chrome or painted surfaces. Polishing your alloy wheels also helps protect them from any damage from driving on the roads.
Use A Sealant
When it comes to protecting your alloys further, the best item you can use to do this is a sealant; this will ensure all the hard work of cleaning and polishing your alloys doesn’t go to waste. Not only will a sealant lock in the shine on your alloys, but it will provide a protective layer. Having a sealant on your alloys will help reduce the risk of chips, scuffs and damages and help you in the long run when it comes to cleaning.
Sealants are a great way of protecting your alloys; we all want to have shiny alloys that look brand new all the time; choosing the proper sealant for your wheels is essential; you want to make sure the sealant works on the material you have. It would be best to double-check what material your alloys are made from; aluminium, coated, chrome or painted surface. This will make sure you get the proper sealant for your wheels.
Sometimes They Need More Than A Clean
Sometimes it gets to the point where cleaning and polishing won’t be enough; if your alloy wheels are damaged, you might need a repair or refurbishment service. Whether your alloy has become damaged from general wear and tear or you have mounted the curb and caused the damage, you should take it to your local refurbishment centre.
There are two main reasons to keep on top of your alloy wheels; firstly, scuffed and damaged alloy wheels make your car look degraded and old. Secondly, if you choose to sell your car in the future, you should keep your alloy wheels in good nick as they can increase the sale cost. It depends on the scale of damage as to how much it will cost to get them refurbished; you can call your local alloy wheel experts to find out a cost after a discussion or an evaluation of work
Contact DW Motor Services for Refurbs Today
If you’ve been looking after your alloy wheels and they still look a little worse for wear, don’t panic. It might be time to have them refurbished. Here are some top tips on keeping your car’s alloys in good condition, but if you feel they need a full refurbishment, you are in the right place.
For those who live near DW Motor Services, you can pop into our garage with your car and get an instant quote from one of our team members. There is no obligation or any cost either, so it doesn’t matter whether you want a full service or just a quick clean up; we want to get your alloys looking brand new. Having the expertise or knowledge of alloys is essential; we have offered alloy wheel repairs and refurbishments for several years; let us bring your alloy wheels back to life. Get in touch with our team today!