How to Clean Matte Black Rims?

The color Matte Black is one of my favorites. As I’m not that fond of shining things, having a set of matte black rims is what I have done. It was looking great on my car. But as always, with time, the color started to be covered by brake dust and road dirt. So, I had to clean the rims.

This is where I’ve faced problems. After cleaning the rim with the cleaning materials I used before, I found that the rims are not looking like new ones anymore. As it was my first set of matte black rims, I was not aware of such a problem and didn’t take any precautions. After such an incident, I started surfing the internet to know exactly what has happened to those and how to clean matte black rims.

I’ve found a few insights while researching about it. Here I’m going to share everything I’ve found regarding this matter.

Problems with Matte Black Rims

Maintaining the black rims is a bit difficult. Black is prone to get dirty fast. Also, scratch marks are more visible on black rims. However, in the case of scratches, matte black is a bit safer because scratches are more visible on glossy black.

Cleaning the matte black rim with a regular rim cleaner changes the appearance of the matte black surface. It becomes dull to look at as the matte texture gets removed or damaged. The matte finish remains unevenly spread.

This is the common issue you have to face if you clean a matt black rim with regular cleaners.

Why Such Thing Happens

This problem happens when you wash the rims with a silicon-based wheel cleaner. Also, if there is a very minor amount of silicone, this problem may happen.

I used a regular rim cleaner that contains silicone. Silicone changed the appearance of the matte surface with its chemical properties. As a result, the look became dull and damaged.

So, now you know what to do. If you have a set of matte black rims, make sure that you’re using a silicon-free cleaner at the time of cleaning it.

If you have no issue with the appearance of the rims or the matte finish doesn’t attract you much, you can go for cleaners with silicone. But to me, the matte finish matters a lot. I love the appearance of my rims having this surface finish. That’s why I’m not going to do the same mistake again.

How to Clean Matte Black Rims

The process of cleaning matte black wheels & rims is almost like the regular process of rim cleaning. The difference is in the product. Below here are the steps in the rim cleaning process.

Step 1- Getting the Required Things

You would need a few things for this purpose. Below is a list of stuffs you need to clean these rims.

Wheel cleaning bucket
Microfiber cloths
A matte-safe auto wash soap
Matte detailer spray sealant
Different types of brushes (long brush, flat brush, and a thin one)
Foam applicator
Anything you use to clean the tires

These are the stuffs you have to gather to clean a matte black rim. While picking the matte-safe auto wash soap and spray sealant, make sure that those are free from silicone.

Step 2- Cleaning the Rim

After gathering everything, it is time to clean the rim. Start with pouring or spraying water on the rim to clean the brake dust and other loose dirt from it.

Then, take some water in the bucket. Get the bucket almost full. Pour about 1.5-2 ounces of matte-safe auto-wash soap into it. Use a long brush or anything to mix the soap with the water until foam builds up.

After that, take a long brush and soak it in the bucket. Use it to start cleaning the rim. Go as long as possible to ensure that you’re cleaning every part of the rim. Use a flat brush for rubbing the mixture on the upper side. To clean the nut holes and other tiny spaces, use the thin brush.

Step 3- Cleaning the Wheel

Use anything you like to use to clean the wheel. You can use an all-purpose cleaner. No matter which product you apply, just make sure that you’re not spraying or using that on the rims. If you do so, the rim surface would be affected. So, be careful while cleaning the wheel.

Step 4- Rinsing It All

After cleaning the wheel, spray water on the wheel and rim at a moderate speed to get rid of all the cleaners and soap. Then, take a microfiber towel and use it to wipe off the water from the rim and wheel. Make sure that no water is left there if you want to keep any unwanted spots away.

Step 5- Applying the Matte Detailer

Now it is time to apply the matte detailer. The advantage of a matte detailer is it doesn’t give the shine. As a result, the matte appearance remains protected.

For this, spray some detailer on the rim and use a microfiber cloth to wipe that. Do this again until you get your expected finish. However, don’t overdo it.

If you use any sealant for the wheel, use that too. But don’t spray that on the rim. To stay safe, spray it on the foam applicator and rub the applicator on the wheel.

How to Protect Matte Black Rims

To protect your matte black rims, you can go for waxes. However, natural waxes might not ensure long-term protection as those can’t withstand the high heat produced in the rims in most cases. Going for synthetic options is the correct decision.

Just like the cleaners, the waxes shouldn’t contain silicone. Also, avoid filling agents. Don’t pick the options that offer great shine. Those would change the matte appearance.

Frequency of Cleaning Matte Black Rims

There is no rule of thumb about how frequently you have to clean the rims. A typical suggestion is cleaning these when you clean the car.

So, when you’re simply washing the car, spray some water on the rims too. When you’re going for a detailed wash, take care of the rims following the above procedure.

But it doesn’t work always. So, go for it when you feel the necessity. If you find that spraying water on the rims is not working and the rims are looking dull, you should go for detailed cleaning. However, don’t overdo it. Over-cleaning makes the rims dull.

FAQs About Matte Black Rims

Which is the best cleaner for matte black rims?

Any cleaner that is free from silicone is a good option for such rims. You’ll find several silicone-free options out there in the market. All of those claim to be the only best product in the market. However, I recommend the options from Chemical Guys.

Can I use matte black rim cleaner on my satin black rims?

You can try this but surely you won’t see the expected result. Satin black rims require the shine that matt black rim cleaner doesn’t provide. So, doing this is not a wise decision. If you have satin black rims, you’ll see that a lot of products are available for those.