Hi guys

I have a 2005 f150 with dirty looking rims. Due to the lack of funds the last couple of months my brake pads on the front got a little more use then I would have liked. I think they were getting close to metal on metal. I recently replaced both pads and rotors but now I am left with a rusty residue on the rims that doesn't come off with soap and water. What would be a safe cleaner to use to get them clean again?

Thanks
Jeff

 

What kind of wheels are they? Chrome? Polished aluminum? Coated?

 

Hey

Sorry they are the aluminum ford factory rims.

Jeff

 

Are they bare aluminum or are they clearcoated?

 

honestly I am not sure. I think they are clear coated as they have shiny finish to them.

 

Try some metal polish on a spot that's not really visible - if the applicator comes up black, they are not coated.

If they are coated wheels, you can use a decent brand of spray-on wheel cleaner that's clear coat safe. Then you can follow that up with the same technique you use for cleaning and waxing the paint. If they are not coated, use a cleaner that's designed for aluminum, then follow up with a metal polish and protectant that's made for raw aluminum wheels.

 

IF they are clearcoated try a clay bar on them. Make sure you follow the instructions and keep the surface wet with whatever the manufacturer of the kit recommends. I just finished doing my wheels and hit them with some coats of Zaino Z5 and they look

 

I would use a cleaner, then use the clay bar - if they are that nasty you will eat up the clay bar real quick.