FOR WHEELS
4 Bilt Hamber Auto-wheel
Price £12.95 (one litre); also in five- and 25-litre bottles Buy if… you are looking for an efficient wheel cleaner
This is a water-based, ph-neutral cleaning product, so should be less hazardous to your wheels and surrounding panels than the traditional mixes, which are strongly acidic or alkaline. Spray it on, then leave for three minutes and when the formulation turns red, you can simply rinse away the dirt with water. Use on aluminium, alloy and steel wheels.
Likes
You don’t have to touch the wheels: just spray on, let it do its job, and then rinse off with a hose
Dislikes
None
5 Simoniz Alloy Wheel Cleaner
Price From £3.09 (500ml) Buy if… you are looking for an inexpensive, convenient wheel cleaner
This product relies on acid technology. Simoniz suggests avoiding use on any unlacquered or unpainted surfaces. The trigger has two settings, spray and stream (spray is sufficient). Spray on and, after a couple of minutes, agitate the resulting foam with a wheel brush. The foam will turn brown, indicating the removal of brake dust and grease. Rinse off.
Likes
Safe on all wheel types, inexpensive and convenient to use
Dislikes
Elbow grease needed for wheels that are very dirty
6 Autoglym Custom Wheel Cleaner
Price From £7.92 (one litre) Buy if… you are looking for an acid-free wheel cleaner
Another acid-free formula that will do the job safely on alloy, lacquered alloy, steel, chrome, painted, anodised and plastic covers. Spray the wheel generously with the cleaner, work in with a wheel brush or sponge – it’s safe to use on the tyre wall – and rinse well, ensuring all of the product is removed. You can also buy this in a kit, comprising the cleaner and two brushes, for £18.
Likes
Safe on almost all types of wheel
Dislikes
Avoid using on split rims