When it comes to washing your car, there seems to be some kind of debate about every step of the process. One particular question that often comes up is: Should you wash tires and wheels first or last? In today’s blog, we provide an answer.
Should You Wash Your Tires and Wheels First or Last?
The general consensus is that you should wash your tires and wheels first.
The reason is that your wheels and tires tend to be the dirtiest part of your vehicle. After all, these are the components that come in closer contact with the road, collecting grime, brake dust, and road debris in the process.
By washing your tires and wheel first, you get rid of all that nasty stuff and if by accident some if it lands on the body, you’ll get rid of it when you wash the rest of the car. Plus, when you leave tires for last, you run the risk of letting water sit for too long on the body of the car, which leads to water spots.
Important! Be sure to use a separate bucket and sponge or mitt for your tires and wheels so that you don’t transfer any dirt or debris to the rest of your car’s exterior
Imagine, for example, washing your tires and then using the same sponge for the body of your car: you’ll be rubbing brake dust and all types of abrasive particles against your car’s paint. Definitely no bueno!
Once you’ve washed your tires and wheels, you can move on to the rest of your vehicle. Remember to follow these simple tips:
- Wash your car in the shade, never in direct sunlight
- Start from the top and work your way down
- Use microfiber towels or a car wash mitt
- Use two buckets, one with the shampoo/water solution and the other one with plain water for rinsing your sponge or microfiber towel
- As you wash your car, look for dings, scratches, or paint chips and repair them as soon as possible
By washing your tires and wheels first, you can ensure that they get the attention they need to truly shine, and avoid any unintended splashing or debris transfer to other parts of your car. Make sure to remember it next wash day!
Inland Empire Autobody & Paint: The Best in Southern California
At Inland Empire Autobody & Paint Inc., we are a family-owned business specializing in collision repair, windshield care, and custom paint jobs. We have locations in Riverside and Moreno Valley, California.
Call us (951-465-7350). Contact us through our website or using our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more information about our full range of services.