Status Wheel

An essential part of any pimped out vehicle is a set of chrome racing wheels. While a slick paint job and nice interior are important, chrome wheels give it the finishing touch. With all of the options to choose from, you can always find something fun and unique to fit your vehicle. But as cool as chrome wheels are, they do require some upkeep and maintenance to keep them looking their best.

Chrome is a very commonly used metal for a variety of products–for the home pots and pans and faucets, and for the road bumpers and truck wheels. Because it is so soft, most items only have chrome plating. Items made entirely of chrome would simply fall apart and be more or less useless. Despite this, it is still very durable, able to withstand very high temperatures, and can last for years to come when properly cared for.

The key to keeping your chrome wheels shining like new is to not let them get too dirty. The dirtier they get the harder they are to clean, eventually leading to rust or oxidation. Also, it is ideal during the winter months to take your chrome wheels off if you live in snowy climates as the salt that is used on the road can damage them.

The best way to begin detailing your chrome wheels is with some good old-fashioned soap and water. Working through one wheel at a time, spray the wheel with water and then use a soft -bristled cleaning brush and car soap to thoroughly clean the wheel; making sure that you get in all the spaces. Rinse with water and immediately dry with a soft cloth to avoid spotting. Repeat this process for each wheel. If the wheels still do not come clean then you may have to use a specialized chrome cleaner to remove heavy dirt, oxidation or rust. In extreme circumstances you may have to take your wheels into the shop to have them wet sand and refinish your wheels.

You can follow up the cleaning with a coat of chrome polish or wax. This will help give your wheels the sparkle and shine that you love. It also encourages dirt to stay on the surface and not damage or dirt the wheel itself; making the wheel last longer and easier to clean.

With clean chrome wheels you are now free to get out there and show off your awesome, customized ride.

Photo by Nick Ares courtesy Creative Commons License.

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