Light Alloy Wheels, Care And Maintenance

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

To maintain the decorative appearance of light alloy wheels for a long time, regular care is necessary.

In particular, road salt and dust from brake abrasion must be thoroughly washed off every two weeks. Otherwise, the paint of the light alloy wheel will be attacked.

Cleaning agent

The following are appropriate cleaning agents:

Water or water and soft soap
Water and diluted acetic acid
Light alloy wheel cleaning agents without acids or harsh solvents

Do not exceed the soaking time of the cleaning agent.

The shorter the specified soaking time is, the stronger and more aggressive the cleaning solution is.

Paint damage

Fix paint damage as soon as possible. Refer to LIGHT ALLOY WHEELS, PREPARING .

Removing adhesive residue from glued balance weights on light alloy rims

Harsh solvents and acids attack the paint on light alloy wheels and the surface of the wheel becomes matte and milky. These agents therefore must not be used.
To remove adhesive residue on light alloy wheels, use light alloy cleansers or benzene-based cleanser. Do not exceed the soaking time of the cleaning agent.
After cleaning or removing adhesive residue on the tires, they must be rinsed again with water.