Maintenance & Care

Regular Cleaning Schedule

Clean your wheels every 1-2 weeks to prevent brake dust buildup, road grime, and corrosive contaminants from damaging the finish. More frequent cleaning is recommended if you drive in harsh conditions or use your vehicle off-road.

Proper Cleaning Technique

• Rinse wheels thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris
• Use a pH-neutral wheel cleaner specifically designed for your wheel finish
• Apply cleaner to cool wheels (never clean hot wheels)
• Use a soft-bristle brush or microfiber mitt to gently scrub the face, spokes, and barrel
• Pay special attention to brake dust buildup around lug nuts and behind spokes
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water, ensuring no cleaner residue remains
• Dry with a clean microfiber towel to prevent water spots

Finish-Specific Care

What to Avoid

• Harsh chemicals, degreasers, or household cleaners
• Abrasive brushes, steel wool, or rough sponges
• Automatic car washes with harsh chemicals or stiff brushes
• Cleaning wheels when hot (can cause cleaners to etch the finish)
• Pressure washers at close range or high PSI settings

Tire Pressure

Check tire pressure at least once per month and before long trips. Maintain manufacturer-recommended PSI (found on the driver's door jamb or owner's manual). Proper inflation improves handling, fuel economy, and tire longevity while reducing uneven wear.

Tire Rotation

Rotate tires every 5,000-7,000 miles to promote even tread wear and extend tire life. Follow your vehicle's recommended rotation pattern (typically front-to-back for trucks and SUVs). Rotation is especially important for lifted or lowered vehicles with altered geometry.

Tread Depth Inspection

Inspect tread depth regularly using a tread depth gauge or the penny test. Replace tires when tread depth reaches 4/32" for all-terrain tires or 2/32" for street tires. Uneven wear patterns may indicate alignment, suspension, or inflation issues.

Tire Cleaning

• Rinse tires with water to remove dirt and debris
• Use a dedicated tire cleaner and stiff brush to scrub sidewalls
• Rinse thoroughly and dry
• Apply tire dressing sparingly (avoid silicone-based products that can cause browning)
• For off-road tires, remove mud and rocks from tread grooves to prevent damage

Seasonal Considerations

• Inspect tires before winter for adequate tread depth and damage
• Consider winter tires if you drive in snow or ice regularly
• Check for dry rot, cracking, or UV damage on tires exposed to extreme heat
• Store off-season tires in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

What to Avoid

• Overinflation or underinflation
• Driving on damaged, worn, or unbalanced tires
• Using petroleum-based tire dressings that accelerate dry rot
• Ignoring alignment or suspension issues that cause uneven wear

Regular Inspections

Inspect suspension components every 6 months or 10,000 miles. Look for signs of wear, damage, leaks, or loose hardware. Pay special attention to bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and shock absorbers.

Shock & Strut Care

Check shocks and struts for leaks, damage, or loss of damping performance. Replace shocks in pairs (front or rear) to maintain balanced handling. Most shocks should be replaced every 50,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions.

Torque Specifications

After installing suspension components, re-torque all bolts and hardware after the first 500 miles. Check torque specs periodically, especially after off-road use or harsh driving conditions. Loose hardware can cause noise, poor handling, and component failure.

Lubrication

Grease all fittings on control arms, tie rods, and ball joints every 5,000-10,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer. Use high-quality grease designed for automotive suspension components.

Alignment

Get a professional alignment after installing any suspension modifications (lift kits, leveling kits, coilovers, etc.). Re-check alignment every 10,000-15,000 miles or if you notice uneven tire wear, pulling, or steering issues.

Lift Kit & Leveling Kit Maintenance

• Inspect all mounting hardware and brackets for cracks or damage
• Check for proper clearance between tires, fenders, and suspension components
• Monitor CV axles and driveshafts for wear (especially on lifted trucks)
• Inspect extended brake lines for damage or rubbing
• Re-torque hardware after initial break-in period

Coilover & Air Suspension Care

• Inspect coilover bodies for leaks or damage
• Clean coilover shafts regularly to prevent dirt buildup
• Check air suspension bags for leaks, cracks, or abrasions
• Inspect air lines and fittings for damage or loose connections
• Drain moisture from air tanks periodically (if equipped)

What to Avoid

• Ignoring unusual noises, vibrations, or handling changes
• Skipping alignment after suspension modifications
• Using incorrect torque specs or over-tightening hardware
• Driving aggressively on worn or damaged suspension components

Wheel Sealants

Apply a quality wheel sealant or ceramic coating to create a protective barrier against brake dust, road grime, and contaminants. Sealants make cleaning easier and help preserve the finish. Reapply every 3-6 months depending on driving conditions.

Tire Dressings

Use water-based, non-silicone tire dressings to enhance appearance without causing long-term damage. Apply sparingly and avoid overspray onto wheel faces or brake components.

Undercoating & Rust Prevention

For trucks and SUVs driven in harsh climates (salt, snow, mud), consider applying an undercoating or rust inhibitor to suspension components, frame, and undercarriage. Inspect and reapply annually.

Ceramic Coatings

Professional ceramic coatings provide long-lasting protection for wheels and can significantly reduce cleaning time. Coatings typically last 1-3 years depending on quality and maintenance.

Storing Wheels & Tires

If storing wheels and tires off-season:

• Clean and dry thoroughly before storage
• Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
• Stack wheels flat or hang individually (avoid stacking tires without wheels)
• Cover with breathable material to prevent dust buildup
• Maintain proper tire pressure if mounted

Vehicle Storage

If storing your vehicle long-term:

• Clean wheels and tires thoroughly before storage
• Inflate tires to recommended pressure
• Use jack stands to relieve weight from suspension (optional for long-term storage)
• Cover vehicle to protect from UV damage and dust

Brake Dust Buildup

Excessive brake dust is normal but can be reduced with high-quality brake pads. Clean wheels frequently and apply a sealant to make future cleaning easier.

Wheel Finish Damage

Scratches, chips, or corrosion may require professional refinishing. Powder coating or repainting can restore damaged wheels.

Tire Dry Rot

Cracking or weathering on tire sidewalls indicates UV damage or age. Replace tires showing signs of dry rot, even if tread depth is adequate.

Suspension Noise

Squeaks, clunks, or rattles may indicate worn bushings, loose hardware, or damaged components. Inspect and address issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Uneven Tire Wear

Indicates alignment, suspension, or inflation issues. Get a professional alignment and inspect suspension components.