Always Start Dry with the Tires/Rims

Most decent rim cleaners require a dry application. Before you rinse the car off in preparation for the main wash, focus on the rims. Using Griot’s Garage cleaner (for example), spray the rim with cleaner until fluid is dripping down (not too much) and let sit no more than 60 seconds. Never let any wheel cleaner dry on the rim.

Using a soft bristle brush reserved for cleaning rims (or cheaper, a good foam sponge), clean the brake dust residue off the outer rim, and exert a bit more strength for any caked on dust. On the MINI S rims, I rinse the outer rim after a light brush cleaning, then take the sponge and work it carefully around the inside of the rim (the part you can’t see) using plenty of rinse water. This does a few things: removes the build up of dust and prevents the dust from building up and causing deposits (harder to remove!). If you have any caked on dirt that is hard to reach or remove, try using one of the horse hair detail brushes to scrub any residue away.

Hardcore car washers will actually remove the rim and clean the inside and out. I’m not that nuts. I will use a the soft rim brush to remove the grit and film from the rubber sidewall, in preparation for later rubber dressing.

There is no need to scrub hard; treat the rims like any other painted area of your MINI.

TIP: Wax your wheels after you are done washing. The wax will ensure the brake dust simply hoses away, and keeps your rims from caking brake dust.

  

Tire Wash Tools    

Use Soft brush to clean brake dust off rim

Spray Cleaner on Dry Rim

Use Sponge to clean behind and between rim