How to Properly Wash Your Car Wheels Using a Pressure Washer

Wheels are the dirtiest part of the car, harboring brake dust and road grime, but they are also heat-resistant and durable.

Start with the Dirtiest: Always wash wheels first to avoid contaminating your body wash mitt or bucket with brake dust.

Use a Dedicated Wheel Cleaner: Apply a pH-balanced wheel cleaner (not the same soap you use on the paint). You can use a pressure washer with a chemical injector or a separate spray bottle.

Scrub: Use a stiff-bristled brush for the wheels and a dedicated tire brush. Scrub the spokes, the barrel of the wheel, and the tire sidewalls.

Rinse with Higher Pressure (Carefully):

You can get slightly closer to the wheels than the paint, but still maintain a distance of at least 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) .

Use the 25° nozzle to blast away brake dust from the nooks and crannies of the wheel spokes.

Caution: Avoid spraying directly at the center cap emblem or the valve stem with high pressure, as this can knock them loose or damage the seal.

Rinse Again: Do a final rinse to ensure no acidic brake dust residue remains.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Hover: Keep the wand moving constantly. Holding it stationary on one spot can cause water spotting or damage.

Don't Spray Seals: Avoid spraying directly into weather stripping, door seals, or sunroof drains with high pressure, as this can force water into the cabin.

Don't Forget the Undercarriage: If your pressure washer has enough power, briefly spray the wheel arches and undercarriage to remove salt and mud, but avoid the exhaust tip if the engine is hot.