The Art of Care

How to Protect Your Rims in Winter

Rims are not only a visual highlight, but also an important component of safety. In winter, however, rims are exposed to special stresses such as road salt, brake dust and moisture.

To protect them from these elements and extend their life, regular maintenance is indispensable. In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to spotless, maintain and protect your rims in the winter.

HOW TO CLEAN THE RIMS IN WINTER?

Cleaning the rims in winter is a necessary measure to remove dirt, salt, brake dust and other impurities that can damage and impair the appearance of the rims.

Cleaning should be done regularly, at least once a month or after each ride on salt-wet roads.

For cleaning the rims, you need the following utensils:

• A bucket with warm water
• A special rim cleaner or a mild soap solution
• A soft sponge or a brush
• A microfiber cloth or a leather

The cleaning of the rims is done in the following steps:

• Spray the rim cleaner on the dry rims or dip the sponge or brush in the soap solution and rub the rims with it. Let the cleaner soak for a few minutes, but do not let it dry.
• Rinse the rims thoroughly with clear water to remove the cleaner and the loosened dirt.
• Dry the rims with the microfiber cloth or leather to avoid water stains.
• Repeat the process if necessary.

When cleaning the rims, you should pay attention to the following points:

• Do not use aggressive cleaners, such as acids or abrasives, that can attack the surface of the rims.
• Do not use high-pressure cleaners or steam jets that can damage the rims or push water into the wheel bearings.
• Do not use hot cleaners or hot water that can cause stress cracks in the rims.
• Do not use metallic sponges or brushes that can leave scratches on the rims.

HOW TO CARE FOR THE RIMS IN WINTER?

Caring for the rims in winter is a preventive measure to protect the rims from corrosion and wear and to maintain their shine. Care should be done after each cleaning, at least once per season.

For caring for the rims, you need the following utensils:

• A special rim sealant or a wax
• A soft cloth or a sponge
• A polishing cloth

The care of the rims is done in the following steps:

• Apply the rim sealant or wax with the cloth or sponge on the dry and clean rims. Make sure that all parts of the rim are evenly covered.
• Let the sealant or wax dry for a few minutes until a slight haze appears.
• Polish the rims with the polishing cloth until they shine.
• Repeat the process if necessary.

When caring for the rims, you should pay attention to the following points:

• Do not use oil-based products, such as silicone spray or tire gloss agents, that can impair braking performance.
• Do not use products that contain abrasive particles that can scratch the surface of the rims.
• Do not use products that are not suitable for the type of rim, such as products for painted rims on polished rims or vice versa.
• Do not use products that can affect the warranty of the rims.

HOW TO PROTECT THE RIMS IN WINTER?

Protecting the rims in winter is an additional measure to protect the rims from extreme conditions and extend their lifespan. The protection should be done before the onset of winter, ideally by a professional.

There are different ways to protect the rims, such as:

• Choosing the right rims for winter. There are special winter rims that are more robust and resistant to salt and snow than summer rims. These rims usually have a simple design and a dark colour that make dirt and scratches less visible. They are also typically cheaper than summer rims, so you can use them without hesitation in winter.
• Mounting tire pressure sensors on the rims. These sensors measure the air pressure in the tires and warn the driver when it is too low or too high. A correct tire pressure is important for the safety and comfort of the vehicle, especially in winter, when the temperature fluctuates. The sensors can be mounted by a professional or bought as an accessory.
• Storing the rims in a dry and cool place. If you do not use the rims in winter, you should store them in a dry and cool place to protect them from moisture and temperature changes. The rims should be clean and dry before storing them. You should also pack them in special bags or boxes to protect them from dust and damage.

CONCLUSION

Keeping your rims in good condition during the winter is an important skill that will help them last longer.

There are three steps to caring for your rims: cleaning, caring, and protecting.

• Cleaning: Use a suitable cleaner and tools to clean your rims regularly.
• Caring: Apply a sealant or wax to your rims after each cleaning.
• Protecting: Choose the right rims for winter, mount tire pressure sensors, and store your rims properly before the season begins.

If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of rim care and enjoying your rims all winter long.