Tyres and Rims: Beating Brake Dust for Good

Nothing makes a clean car look dirty faster than grimy wheels. That dark build-up is mostly brake dust: tiny metal particles and carbon that bake onto hot rims and, over time, can pit and stain the finish.

Wheels first, always

Always clean wheels before the body, so you don't splash brake dust onto freshly washed paint.

Use a dedicated tyre & rim cleaner

Car shampoo isn't strong enough for baked-on brake dust. A dedicated tyre and rim cleaner breaks it down so it rinses away. Always check that the product suits your wheel finish (chrome, painted, polished or alloy).

Step by step

1. Make sure the wheels are cool. Never clean hot rims.
2. Rinse off loose dirt.
3. Spray the rim cleaner and let it dwell briefly.
4. Agitate with a soft wheel brush, getting behind the spokes.
5. Scrub tyre walls with a stiffer brush.
6. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfibre cloth.

Keep them cleaner for longer

• Wash wheels weekly so dust can't bake on.
• Use separate brushes, mitts and cloths for wheels. Never use them on the paint.
• A tyre dressing gives that finishing deep-black look.

Shop tyre & rim cleaners and the rest of the car care range at our sister company Max Products.

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Products mentioned in this guide

Available now from our sister company Max Products at maxproducts.co.za, in trade sizes and delivered in Cape Town.

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