How to Clean Tires

HOW TO CLEAN TIRES

Tires are often the dirtiest part of your vehicle, but regular cleaning is essential to keep them looking great and performing properly. Removing brake dust, road grime, and buildup helps prevent rubber deterioration and extends the life of your tires.

Using the right cleaner matters. Harsh degreasers and chemical-based products can strip away protective rubber conditioners, causing discoloration, cracking, or dry rot—often seen as unsightly “brown tires.”

Many commercial wheel cleaners contain acids, solvents, or ammonia. While they may cut through grime quickly, they can also damage wheel finishes and pose potential health risks.

ADVANAGE the Wonder Cleaner®, diluted 10:1, safely removes brake dust, tar, and road grime without damaging your tires or rims. Its powerful, non-abrasive formula works effectively while remaining safe for surrounding surfaces.

What You’ll Need

ADVANAGE the Wonder Cleaner® (10:1 dilution)
Garden hose or pressure washer
Soft or stiff nylon-bristled brush
Sponge (optional)
Microfiber cloth (optional)
Tire protectant (optional)

DIRECTIONS FOR CLEANING TIRES

Always spot test on a small, hidden area before full application.

Start with the Tires
Clean tires before washing the rest of the vehicle to prevent splashing grime onto freshly cleaned surfaces.
Apply Cleaner
Spray ADVANAGE the Wonder Cleaner® (10:1 dilution) onto cool, dry tires—one at a time.
Allow it to sit for 1–2 minutes. Do not let the product dry on the surface.
Scrub Thoroughly
Use a nylon-bristled brush or sponge to loosen brake dust and buildup.
Focus on sidewalls and around lug nuts where grime collects.
Rinse Completely
Rinse thoroughly with water to remove all residue.
Repeat
Continue the process for all four tires.
Wash the Rest of Your Vehicle
Once tires are complete, proceed with washing the rest of the car.
Dry
Dry your vehicle, including the tires, with a clean microfiber cloth.
Apply Protectant (Optional)
Finish with a quality tire protectant to maintain a deep, like-new finish.

TIPS

ADVANAGE the Wonder Cleaner® (10:1 dilution) also works effectively on whitewall tires.
Tire manufacturers recommend cleaning tires at least every other week.
Avoid cleaning over asphalt surfaces, as aggressive scrubbing may cause surface pitting.

Important Cleaning Tool Guidelines

Throughout various cleaning instructions, different tools may be recommended. Always select the appropriate tool for the surface being cleaned:

White scouring pad – Non-abrasive; safe for delicate materials and finishes.
Green scouring pad – Abrasive; for stubborn stains on durable surfaces only.
Nylon brush – Soft bristles; ideal for light buildup and hard-to-reach areas.
Wire brush – Highly abrasive; for heavy buildup on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt only.

⚠ Improper use of abrasive tools may result in scratches or surface damage. Always use caution.

When using ADVANAGE 20X on delicate fabrics such as upholstery, carpet, silk, or leather, always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure colorfastness and prevent bleeding.

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