I have an 05 with 4100mi. and since I bought it I have been unable to get the wheels REALLY clean. I have small particles stuck in the area on the side of the spokes where its not machined smooth. Is P21 S the strongest thing I can use and not hurt the finish?

 

P21S is pretty gentle stuff, actually. I'd give it a shot because you can leave it on there for a while.

You CAN use wheel acid on clearcoated wheels if you don't let it set for more than a few seconds (10-30) and neutralize it quickly. Lots of folks over at Autopia use wheel acid regularly on cleared wheels, but I have yet to get my hands on some good strong acid.

A2Z is pretty strong stuff, too, and "safe" for clear... Maybe try something else like clay or Klasse AIO and a soft sponge if the P21S doesn't cut it.

 

I've had very good results with Meguiar's Hot Wheels and a soft brush. However, I've decided to experiment with Zaino or Wheel Wax, and try to avoid spray cleaners altogether.

 

For embedded stuff I use Goo Gone. Takes off adhesives and lots of gummy stuff on pretty much anything.

CLR (calcium, lime, rust) is an over the counter mild acid product that works well on removing hardwater spots and other hard to remove marks.

 

Thanks for all the input. I have been using the P21 S and letting it sit as well as using a wheel brush. I was considering a stiffer, shorter bristled brush but wanted a stronger cleaner also. I will give the Meguire's Hot Wheels a try. I am a little apprehensive about the acid not to mention I don't know where to get it.

 

Dude! I can get you some acid!

seriously, that would be a last-resort type of product. If you're willing to put in the elbow grease, I'd say try a different cleaner and get in there with a soft non-abrasive pad or brush. As tempting as it is to use a stiffer brush, you may end up hazing/scratching the clear so be careful.

Good luck with it.

 

I will experiment with some different cleaners and stay with the soft wheel brush I have been using. Thanks again for the input.

 

Definitely I think you decided on the best course of action. You should experiment with some different wheel cleaners. Eagle One All Tire & Wheel Cleaner (F/K/A A2Z) and Megs Hot Wheels are some of the stronger ones you can buy in an auto parts store. I would also try some clay on the wheels or some Klasse AIO if you have it. If you do clay the wheels don't use that piece of clay on your paint after that or you will scratch it.

Personally, the only thing I've found that gets my wheels really, really clean is Meguiar's Wheel Brightener. You can use the Meguiar's Dealer locator to find a local place that sells their Pro line. Likely you'll have to go to a body shop supply store to get it or you can order it on-line at various places. Wheel Brightener is CHEAP as you buy it concentrated and then need to dilute it. It's just as powerful as HF acid, but slightly safer health wise according to Meguiars than HF acid which is what most places sell. If you do buy some use rubber gloves when cleaning with it and you'll also thank me if you use a paper chemical vapor mask. I picked up a mask & some gloves at my local Lowe's. You'll look like a surgeon, but you'll feel better afterward than if you hadn't used them. After you use the Megs WB to clean your wheels you should seal them with AIO or Wheel Wax. After that you can maintain the clean finish with car wash soap.