How to Clean Your Tires

Dad and son cleaning the tires on the family car

Keeping your vehicle clean can be a daily challenge, but cleaning your tires is important because it will prevent brake dust and other elements from potentially damaging the tire. (It's also a great time to inspect your tires to make sure they're up for the task of your next trip!)

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Cleaning Your Tires Step-By-Step

Now let’s get down to the dirty business of cleaning your tires! By using the steps listed below, you will learn how to clean your tires and keep them looking great for years to come.

Step One:

Spray the tires with water, then apply an approved tire cleaning solution. Be sure to avoid any product that lists formaldehyde or raw silicone as an ingredient, as these compounds can deteriorate your tire rubber. Let the cleaning solution sit on the tire to break up dirt and grime.

Step two:

After letting the cleaner sit for a couple of minutes, begin scrubbing the tire surface. You should use a soft or medium brush. This will help prevent scratches to the wheel while you scrub the tires.

Step three:

Thoroughly rinse the tire and wheel to remove all cleaning products. Don’t forget to rinse the brush as well.

Step four:

When the tire is completely rinsed, dry your tire with a microfiber cloth. Make sure to thoroughly dry the wheel as well. This will help prevent any water spots.

Tires can collect more grime than any other part of the vehicle exterior. It’s a good idea to reserve a few rags exclusively for tire and wheel cleaning because that grime and brake dust can cause permanent stains. Be sure only to use these rags on the wheels/tires, since they may contain brake dust and debris that can scratch other parts of the vehicle.

Following these steps will get rid of that pesky brake dust and build-up of dirt to ensure your tires look shiny and new. Remember, this is a great time to detail and clean your wheels, too.

Does it look like your wheels could use an upgrade as well? We’ve got the largest inventory of rims, so finding and saving on a replacement set of rims is as easy as a few clicks online!

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When you're ready for your new rims or tires, be sure to buy and book online to get a shorter wait time when you get to the store!

If you need any help finding tires or wheels for your ride, we’ve got you covered. Feel free to stop by your nearest store or schedule an appointment, and we'll get you taken care of!