Aluminum wheel maintenance: cleaning, protection, and repair – Complete guide
Why do rims get damaged?
Aluminum rims are constantly exposed to braking (brake dust), gravel projections, curbs, and road chemicals. Without regular maintenance, they tarnish, oxidize, and scratch.
Regular cleaning: the foundation
What to do
- Clean the rims every time you wash your car
- Use a product suitable for rims (no acidic products on aluminum)
- Rinse thoroughly to remove brake residue
What to avoid
- Acidic or highly alkaline products that attack aluminum
- Metal brushes that scratch
- Letting products dry on the rims in the sun
Repairing a superficial scratch
If your rim has a light scratch (contact with a curb), AUTONOVA Rim Repair Paste can treat it at home:
1. Clean the rim and let it dry
2. Apply the paste to the scratched area with a microfiber cloth
3. Rub in circular motions
4. Wipe off the residue — the scratch is reduced or erased
Protecting after cleaning
After a thorough cleaning, apply a thin layer of nano coating to the rims. This creates a barrier against brake dust and makes future cleaning easier.