Are these wheels FUBAR?

Z

ZionsWrath

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These are my winter wheels, OEM with snow tires. I didn't do anything to maintain my car while I had these on and after scrubbing for a LONG time with Armor All wheel cleaner I can't get the rest off. I am much more proficient in maintaining my new wheels but wanted to try and get these a little cleaner than this.

Also, how do you go about removing the black tar bits that stick like super glue to the wheel? You can see them in the photo, I have trouble getting them off and even my new wheels are getting them and I can't clean it especially with the wheels on the car.

nv606g.jpg
 
They are OEM 2003 Honda Accord wheels. I don't know if they are clear coated but i don't think so. I notice my mom's Passat and girlfriend's Civic Si are very easy to clean and must have a clear coat on them as the grime just slides off.

I have tried a pressure washer, although not sure of the PSI, and it didn't do anything.

I have not tried claying it yet.

This is what the front looks like:
2d11qi9.jpg
 
They're clearcoated. You can use an acid cleaner on them, but the black specs/tar on the back of the wheel will come off with some solvent. We use Mark-V Qwik Solv, but 3M adhesive remover would work also. Once you get the wheels clean enough, you can clay bar the wheels, and put a wax or paint sealant on them.
 
Yeah, those are clearcoated alloys. I wouldn't recommend going the wheel acid route unless you have to, or you'll risk taking the clear off. Try something like Stoner Tarminator first and see if that helps. Or, better yet, Meguiar's Wheel Brightener. Haven't used it myself as I have no need for it, but I have heard some amazing things about it. AG says to use it at a 4:1 dilution ratio, but I'd try it at 10:1 first and see how that goes.
 
A little acid will not harm the wheels what so ever. Megs WB is a staple in my arsenal and will never go to a detail without it. Just use a APC or baking soda solution afterwards if you are worried and want to neutralize any remaining residue.

Megs Wheel Brightener, Mineral spirits and clay will remove whats on your wheels no problem. Use mineral spirits because its basically the same as stoners tarminator but you get a gallon for $10-13 and you can use it to strip wax and remove polishing residue.
 
:buffing:Have Them Sandblasted withh walnut shells and repolished. Then have them reclear coated. They will look like new for about $40.00 a Wheel.
 
Another vote for Tarminator here. I used it on the inside of my wheels to get rid of tar and Tarminator worked a treat.
 
If you're referring to back side only then I'd grab a bucket of soapy water and a 3M ScotchBrite pad and scrub away. You really can't do more harm then you already have from natural wear and tear. Keep in mind it's the rear side of the wheel you're concerned with correct?
 
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