Winter wheel care
Winter is hard on wheels, because road salt and wet weather get into any damage in the finish. A few checks before, during and after the season stop small chips turning into corrosion.
Why winter damages alloys
Salt spread on the road sits in the gaps of a wheel and, once it finds a chip or a lifting edge in the lacquer or paint, it attacks the bare metal underneath. Wet weather keeps the metal damp, and brake dust adds to the problem on wheels that are rarely washed. Potholes also open up faster in cold, wet weather, and a hit can bend a rim as well as scuff it.
What to look for
Damage that looks minor in autumn often looks very different by March. The signs below deserve a closer look.
Your winter wheel checklist
Before winter
- Look over each wheel for chips, kerb scuffs and lifting lacquer.
- Check diamond cut faces for cloudy patches or white spots.
- Have any damage repaired before the weather turns.
- Clean the wheels thoroughly and apply a sealant that suits your finish.
During winter
- Rinse the wheels after driving on salted roads, when you can.
- Use a wheel-safe cleaner to lift brake dust, and keep tools soft.
- After a pothole or kerb hit, check the wheel and the tyre sidewall.
- Photograph any new damage so you have a record.
After winter
- Look for white powder, bubbling paint or rough patches, which are signs of corrosion.
- Check the inside of the rim as well as the face.
- Send photos of anything that has started to spread.
- Reseal the wheels once they are clean and repaired.
Quick answers
Should I wax my wheels for winter?
A sealant can help. Check it suits your finish, and never apply one over corrosion or lifting lacquer.
How often should I rinse them?
After driving on salted roads, if you can. A quick rinse with plain water removes most of the salt.
What if corrosion has started?
Get it repaired before it spreads. Send a photo and we will tell you what the repair involves.
Can I fix winter damage myself?
Small marks on the finish can be tidied with the right products, but corrosion under the lacquer needs the wheel stripped back. A photo will show us which you have.
Book a check
Send a photo of any damage and we will quote within 24 hours. We recommend calling or sending a photo first, so we can book you a time. Or call us on 0207 060 3666 Unit 1, 38 Crown Road, Enfield, EN1 1TH · Mon-Fri 8am-6pm · Sat 8am-1pm
Contact
Get a free photo quote
Phone
020 7060 3666
WhatsApp
+447512308716
Address
Unit 1, 38 Crown Road
Enfield
EN1 1TH
Enfield
EN1 1TH