Chrome rims are supposed to be shiny all the time. But, each time you hit the brakes, the brake dust gets on the rims and makes them dirty.
Then, there is the rain, mud, and dirt from the road. Not to mention the stains from all kinds of oil leaks. Chrome rims don’t rust, but rocks and other debris can damage the chrome layer and leave an exposed metal that will rust over time. All of this adds up and you are left with very dirty chrome rims.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get your chrome rims detailed. You can clean them at home using nothing more than an oven cleaner and a brush. Here is how to clean chrome rims with oven cleaner.
Key Takeaway
- To clean chrome rims with oven cleaner, spray the cleaner on the rims, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then wipe away the stains, oils, brake dust, rust, and other debris.
How To Clean Chrome Rims With Oven Cleaner
1. Gather the cleaning supplies
Before you start cleaning your chrome rims with oven cleaner, you will need to have all the cleaning supplies as well as the protective gear on hand. You will need one can of oven cleaner, a brush, gloves, and eye protection.
The oven cleaner is made of chemicals that can cause skin burns when in contact with your skin, or worse if it gets in your eyes. It is important to have gloves and eye protection when you clean with oven cleaner.
2. Clean the chrome rims with water
Before you start scrubbing your chrome rims with a brush, you will need to remove all the debris, dirt, and small rocks that could be stuck on your rim.
Grab a water hose or a power washer and clean your chrome rims. Make sure there is no debris left on the rims because once you start scrubbing with the brush, you will damage the rims.
3. Spray the chrome rims with oven cleaner
Spray all of the chrome rims with oven cleaner and leave it for 10 minutes. The oven cleaner will do its magic and remove the stains, oils, brake dust, rust, and other dirt from the rims.
Make sure that you are wearing your gloves and eye protection. Keep your distance while spraying because you don’t want to breathe in the oven cleaner.
4. Scrub your chrome rims with a brush
Scrub all of your chrome rims with a brush. If you don’t have a brush, you can use a toilet brush. I know it’s a little bit hard and boring to clean the rims while squatting, but you have to make sure to scrub all the parts. The rust and stains need a little bit of time to get off.
5. Wash your rims with water
Once you finish scrubbing all the chrome rims, get a water hose or a power washer and spray the rims with water. Make sure to remove all the oven cleaners. If you missed a spot, you can always spray more oven cleaners and re-do the cleaning process.
At this point, you should have stain-free, debris-free, rust-free chrome rims. P.S. I know that chrome rims don’t stain, but debris can chip the chrome off the rims and leave exposed metal that will rust over time.
FAQs
Q: Will oven cleaner remove brake dust from chrome rims?
A: Yes, oven cleaner can effectively remove baked-on brake dust from chrome rims. The strong cleaning agents in the oven cleaner break down the brake dust, making it easier to scrub away. However, it is important to use caution and follow the instructions on the oven cleaner label to avoid damaging the rims.
Q: Is it safe to use oven cleaner on chrome wheels?
A: Yes, it is generally safe to use oven cleaner on chrome wheels. However, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the oven cleaner label to ensure proper usage. Avoid using oven cleaner on painted or clear-coated chrome wheels, as it may cause damage. Test the oven cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the wheel first to check for any adverse reactions.
Q: How often should I clean my chrome rims?
A: The frequency of cleaning your chrome rims will depend on various factors such as driving conditions, weather, and personal preference. As a general guideline, it is recommended to clean your chrome rims at least once every two weeks to prevent brake dust and grime from building up. Regular cleaning will also help maintain the shine and finish of the rims.
Q: Can I use household items instead of oven cleaner to clean my chrome rims?
A: Yes, there are alternative methods using household items to clean chrome rims. For example, you can mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it as a homemade chrome cleaner. Another option is to use a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Be sure to rinse the rims thoroughly after cleaning to avoid leaving any residue.
Q: Should I use a wheel brush to clean my chrome rims?
A: Yes, using a wheel brush can be helpful in removing brake dust and grime from the hard-to-reach areas of your chrome rims. Look for a brush with soft bristles to prevent scratching the chrome surface. Additionally, using a brush can make the cleaning process more efficient and effective.
Q: How can I remove brake dust from my rims without using oven cleaner?
A: There are several alternatives to using oven cleaner for removing brake dust from rims. You can try using a specialized wheel cleaner that is safe for your type of rims. Another option is to mix a solution of mild dish soap and water and use it to scrub the rims using a soft cloth or sponge. Additionally, there are commercial brake dust removers available that can effectively dissolve and remove brake dust.
Q: Should I use steel wool to clean my chrome rims?
A: It is not recommended to use steel wool to clean chrome rims. Steel wool is abrasive and can scratch the chrome surface, leading to damage and a dull appearance. It is best to use a soft cloth, sponge, or a non-abrasive brush specifically designed for cleaning chrome surfaces.
In Conclusion
Cleaning chrome rims with oven cleaner is an effective way to restore their shine and protect against future corrosion.
Oven cleaner is a powerful solution that can easily cut through dirt, grime, grease, and other road debris on the surface of the rims.