Premium forged wheels deserve proper care.
Your Aurelian Forged wheels are exposed to brake dust, road grime, water, UV, heat, and coastal air every time you drive. Regular cleaning and protection will help preserve the finish, reduce staining, and keep your wheels looking their best for years.
General Cleaning Process
For all wheel finishes, follow this process:
1. Let the wheels cool first
Never clean hot wheels.
Allow the wheels to cool for at least 30 minutes after driving. Spraying cleaner or water onto hot wheels can cause residue, staining, or finish damage.
2. Rinse before touching
Rinse the wheel thoroughly with clean water to remove loose dirt, grit, and brake dust.
This helps prevent scratching when you begin washing.
3. Use a pH-neutral wheel cleaner
Only use a pH-neutral or pH-balanced wheel cleaner that is safe for premium alloy wheels.
Avoid:
• Acid-based wheel cleaners
• Heavy degreasers
• Household cleaning products
• Dish soap with harsh additives
• Abrasive cleaners
4. Clean gently
Use a soft wheel brush, detailing brush, or clean microfiber mitt.
Avoid hard brushes, steel wool, abrasive pads, or anything that could scratch the finish.
Use separate cleaning tools for your wheels and your vehicle paintwork.
5. Clean the inner barrel
Brake dust builds up heavily inside the wheel barrel.
Use a soft barrel brush to clean behind the spokes and inside the wheel where possible.
6. Rinse thoroughly
Make sure all cleaner is completely removed from the wheel, including around spokes, hardware, centre caps, and the inner barrel.
Do not allow wheel cleaner to dry on the surface.
7. Dry immediately
Use a clean microfiber towel to dry the wheels after rinsing.
Allowing water to air dry can leave water spots, especially on gloss, polished, and darker finishes.
Finish-Specific Care
Gloss Finishes
Gloss black, gloss silver, gloss bronze, gunmetal, and other clear-coated finishes should be treated like premium paint.
Use:
• pH-neutral cleaner
• Soft microfiber mitts
• Wheel sealant or ceramic coating
Light swirl marks may be polished by a professional, but harsh chemicals should always be avoided.
Matte and Satin Finishes
Matte and satin finishes need extra care.
Do not polish matte or satin wheels.
Do not clay bar matte or satin wheels.
Polishing or claying can permanently alter the surface texture and sheen.
Use:
• pH-neutral wheel cleaner
• Soft microfiber tools
• Iron fallout remover when needed
• Ceramic coating for added protection
Never allow cleaners to dry on matte or satin surfaces.
Brushed Finishes
Brushed finishes are usually protected by a clear coat, but the visible brushing effect can be dulled if treated incorrectly.
Use:
• pH-neutral cleaner
• Soft brushes or microfiber
• Wheel sealant every few months
Avoid abrasive pads or polishing compounds unless advised by a professional. If the clear coat is chipped or damaged, repair it quickly to avoid corrosion.
Polished Finishes
Polished wheels require the highest level of maintenance.
They show brake dust, water spots, and oxidation more easily than other finishes.
Use:
• Mild soap and water
• Soft microfiber towels
• Dedicated aluminium polish when required
• Metal sealant or wheel wax for protection
Dry immediately after every wash.
Avoid acid-based cleaners completely, as they can etch and damage polished aluminium.
Protecting Your Wheels
Cleaning removes contaminants.
Protection helps stop contaminants from bonding to the finish.
We recommend applying protection from day one.
Wheel Sealant
A wheel sealant creates a protective layer between the wheel finish and brake dust, road grime, salt, and water.
Apply every 2–3 months for best results.
Ceramic Coating
A ceramic coating offers longer-lasting protection and makes wheels much easier to clean.
Benefits include:
• Easier brake dust removal
• Better water beading
• Added resistance to grime and staining
• Longer-lasting finish protection
Ceramic coating can be applied to gloss, satin, matte, brushed, and polished finishes when done correctly.
Professional application is recommended for the best result.