The difference between acidic and alkaline wheel cleaner

September 3, 2024
Jakub
Useful tutorials, practical tips
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When maintaining your car, it's important to pay attention to cleaning the wheels, which are exposed to a lot of dirt, brake dust, and various chemicals from the road. When choosing the right wheel cleaner, you may encounter two main types – acidic and alkaline cleaners. What are the differences between them, and which one is more suitable for your needs?

Acidic Wheel Cleaners

Acidic wheel cleaners are based on acids, most commonly phosphoric acid or citric acid. These cleaners are extremely effective at removing heavy deposits of brake dust, rust, and other metallic contaminants. They are ideal for cleaning very dirty wheels that have not been maintained for a long time. However, it's important to be careful when using acidic cleaners as they can be aggressive towards some surfaces and materials. It's crucial to thoroughly rinse the wheels after use to prevent damage to the paint or finish.

PROWHEELZ - acidic wheel cleaner - pH 1,0-1,5

Alkaline Wheel Cleaner FreshWHEELZ

Alkaline Wheel Cleaners

Alkaline wheel cleaners, also known as basic or caustic cleaners, are based on alkaline substances like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. These cleaners are less aggressive towards surfaces than acidic cleaners and are therefore safer for regular use. They are effective at removing oil stains, grease, and general road grime. Alkaline cleaners are suitable for most types of wheels, including those with more sensitive surfaces such as chrome or painted wheels.

Optional accessories for cleaning wheels

Detailing accessories are key to thorough cleaning of wheels, as they allow the removal of dirt, brake dust and grease, thereby protecting the surface of the wheels and increasing their life and the aesthetics of the vehicle.

Which Cleaner to Choose?

The choice between acidic and alkaline cleaners depends on the level of dirt and the type of wheel material. If you need to remove heavy deposits of brake dust and rust, an acidic cleaner PROWHEELZ might be a better choice, but use it cautiously. For regular cleaning and maintenance of wheels, we recommend an alkaline cleaner FreshWHEELZ, which is gentler on surfaces and less likely to cause damage.

Always read the manufacturer's instructions and ensure the cleaner is compatible with the material of your wheels. By choosing and using the right cleaners, you will ensure that your wheels are not only clean but also protected in the long term.