Is wheel wax/protection really worth it?

[Mike Phillips]

I'm not a fan of painted wheels, especially black painted wheels but that's what I have on my truck as of today.

These wheels are brand new, cost over $400.00 a piece and in these before shots they're looking a little dull...







I washed my truck using the foam gun and Detailer's Extreme Foam Formula Auto Shampoo and a Boar's Hair Brush.

At the extreme makeover, I believe Robert used Optimum G-P-S by hand and the difference is remarkable...

1987 Chevy 4x4 Monster Truck "Before & After" Pictures

[BuckeyeR/T]

Besides the fact that the wheels look amazing you folks that have not owned Dodge wheels should know that they have a huge problem with corrosion on the wheel right where the center rams horn insert meets the wheel. I had an '05 Magnum R/T and hated the wheels because of that. I wish now that I would have waxed them. Rockn example of how taking care of your wheels and they will continue to look awesome.
Thank you Bobby

The wheels on your car or truck live their lives in a tough environment. They see roar dirt and grime, sand, salt, extreme temperatures, hot brake dust and a host of other environmental hazards.

Maintaining your wheels is important if you want their looks to last. Polishing them once or twice a year will remove embedded grime and oxidation just like maintaining the paint on your car. Applying a coat of sealant or wax is most important as it provides a layer of protection against to ward off the assault of brake dust and road debris.

The problem with sealants and waxes is that they're temporary and must be reapplied in order to maintain their effectiveness. Permanent coatings like Optimum Opti-Coat provide a hard permanent barrier and while much more resilient it too will wear over time...but a much longer time.

Before I used Opti-Coat on my wheels I used Collinite 845 after each wash and it reduced brake dust accumulation by 50% and made washing a cinch. Regular wash water was all that was needed, no strong or dedicated wheel cleaners...

The bottom line: Maintaining your wheels correctly is important and if nothing else sealing and waxing should be part of this regiment..

These wheels are 14 years old and see tough New England winters regularly...

[BobbyG]

14 years? Most people's body paint doesn't looks as good as your wheels on their 2 year old car. I guess this shows if you take care of stuff it will last.

BTW... I'm 40. So I guess I'm now old as well

I remember when I was 40 and those were great years....now I'm old enough to be your father! .......now how did that happen!!

[RandyD]

I put opticoat on the wheels of both my cars and never looked back. Looks great and easy to clean. If you can afford it, it's worth it to buy opticoat just for your wheels. With the amount you will spend on cleaners and sealants for wheels, Opticoat could cost less and look better in the long run.

[Deep Gloss Auto Salon]

I wouldnt use a traditional lsp.. Coating wheels is the ONLY way to go

[OCD]

Wow! Thank you guys for all the information! There is a lot of info and all of it is very much appreciated. It gives me a lot to think about and look over. Sorry I cannot reply to everyone as I would like to.

blackfire crystal seal is great for wheels. or use any good wax/sealant as mentioned above.

i have also used wheel wax and blackfire polish & seal with great results. the local BMW dealer has the wheel wax.

nice xterra! what year? i have the 2012 PRO 4X.

Thanks man! But I cannot claim the x. It is one of my regulars. However, I have always liked them and they a pretty sweet suv! Oh and I think his is an 08 off road.

The wheels on your car or truck live their lives in a tough environment. They see roar dirt and grime, sand, salt, extreme temperatures, hot brake dust and a host of other environmental hazards.

Maintaining your wheels is important if you want their looks to last. Polishing them once or twice a year will remove embedded grime and oxidation just like maintaining the paint on your car. Applying a coat of sealant or wax is most important as it provides a layer of protection against to ward off the assault of brake dust and road debris.

The problem with sealants and waxes is that they're temporary and must be reapplied in order to maintain their effectiveness. Permanent coatings like Optimum Opti-Coat provide a hard permanent barrier and while much more resilient it too will wear over time...but a much longer time.

Before I used Opti-Coat on my wheels I used Collinite 845 after each wash and it reduced brake dust accumulation by 50% and made washing a cinch. Regular wash water was all that was needed, no strong or dedicated wheel cleaners...

The bottom line: Maintaining your wheels correctly is important and if nothing else sealing and waxing should be part of this regiment..

These wheels are 14 years old and see tough New England winters regularly...

Bobby-Thank you for the write-up. Definitely helped to see the results after an extended period of time with harsh winters.

[Meticulous-Detail]

Here are pics of my wheels done this past Monday. Pics taken yesterday. Tires and wheels treated with UTTG. First time using UTTG on wheels.

[OCD]

Here are pics of my wheels done this past Monday. Pics taken yesterday. Tires and wheels treated with UTTG. First time using UTTG on wheels.

Dang man! Nice wheels. One question if yu dont mind me asking.. What is UTTG?

[ihaveacamaro]

Dang man! Nice wheels. One question if yu dont mind me asking.. What is UTTG?

Ultima Tire Trim and Guard.

[OCD]

Ultima Tire Trim and Guard.

Ahh thank you! I knew it was something simple.