WHEEL CARE & MAINTENANCE

Your Curva Concepts wheels are a significant investment in both style and performance. To ensure they keep their appearance and optimal functionality, proper wheel care and maintenance are essential. Please note that warranty claims on finish will be voided if improper maintenance, care, or harsh cleaning agents and chemicals are used to clean your wheels.

This comprehensive wheel care guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to clean and care for your Curva Concepts wheels, helping you keep them looking their best for years to come. By following these best practices, you’ll not only preserve the aesthetics of your wheels but also enhance their longevity and performance.

For optimal results, we recommend using high-quality detailing products, such as those offered by 3D Car Care, which we have found to be especially effective in maintaining the finish and integrity of Curva Concepts wheels.

Cleaning your curva concepts wheels

Preparing for a Proper Clean

Before diving into the cleaning process, gathering the right supplies is crucial for achieving the best results:

pH-balanced wheel cleaner
Soft-bristled wheel brushes and detailing brushes for crevices
Microfiber towels for drying without scratching
Clean water source (hose or pressure washer set to low)
Wheel mitt or specialized wheel brushes for barrels

Proper preparation prevents damage while ensuring your wheels get a thorough cleaning.

Regular Wheel Cleaning Process

Step 1: Initial Rinse

Begin with a thorough rinse using moderate water pressure to remove loose dirt and debris. This critical first step prevents scratching during the cleaning process by washing away larger particles that could otherwise act as abrasives.

Step 2: Apply Wheel Cleaner

With the wheels still damp (but not hot), apply a generous amount of wheel cleaner. For Curva Concepts wheels, we strongly recommend using 3D Car Care’s lineup of wheel cleaners, which are formulated with advanced cleaning agents that safely and effectively remove stubborn brake dust and road grime without damaging your wheel’s finish.

Step 3: Proper Agitation

Using appropriate brushes, gently agitate the cleaner across all surfaces of the wheel. For intricate Curva Concepts designs:

Use a soft-bristled brush for visible surfaces
Use detailing brushes for tight spaces between spokes
Consider specialized tools like wheel barrel brushes, which feature ergonomic handles to reach deep in the barrel.

Step 4: Thorough Rinse

Completely rinse all cleaning products from the wheel, ensuring no residue remains. Take extra care to direct water into all crevices and behind spokes where cleaner might hide.

Step 5: Complete Drying

Use a clean, dedicated microfiber towel to thoroughly dry your wheels. This prevents water spots and mineral deposits that can etch into your finish over time. For hard-to-reach areas, consider using an air blower to ensure complete drying.

Deep Wheel Cleaning Process

For wheels with significant brake dust accumulation or those that haven’t been properly maintained. For heavily soiled wheels, we often suggest remove the wheels from the car. This allows you to clean the back side and barrels of the wheels.

Two-Phase Cleaning Approach

1. Iron Removal Phase: Apply a dedicated iron remover like 3D BDX Iron Remover to break down embedded brake dust particles. Watch as the product changes color (typically to purple), indicating it’s reacting with iron particles in the brake dust.

2. Degreasing Phase: Follow with a powerful yet safe degreaser like 3D Yellow Degreaser to tackle remaining road grime, tire dressing overspray, and oily residues. This product excels at removing stubborn contamination while remaining safe for all wheel types.

Seasonal Tips

Spring & Summer

Clean your wheels more often to remove increased brake dust and road grime
Always let wheels cool before cleaning to avoid water spots and product residue
Apply a UV-protectant like wax or ceramic coating to help prevent sun fading and oxidation

Fall & Winter:

Deep clean and apply a durable protectant before winter to guard against road salt and chemicals
Rinse wheels frequently during winter to remove salt and prevent corrosion
If swapping wheels for winter, clean and thoroughly dry your Curva Concepts wheels before storing them in a cool, dry place

Protecting your curva concepts wheels

Short-Term Protection

For a basic, short-term protection plan lasting weeks to months:

Wheel Waxes and Sealants

Wax products create somewhat of a shield that repels contaminants and reduces brake dust accumulation. This type of protection usually lasts for 2-3 months, offers enhanced shine and gloss, makes cleaning your wheels easier during subsequent washes, and in some cases resists heat for brake components.

Wax Application Process

After thorough cleaning and drying:

Apply a small amount of product to a foam or microfiber applicator pad
Spread evenly across all wheel surfaces (easier with the wheels off the car)
Allow to cure according to product instructions (typically 15 minutes)
Buff with a clean microfiber towel

Long-Term Protection

For optimal and maximum protection lasting months to years, the most efficient solution is to ceramic coat your wheels. Ceramic coatings offer superior protection by creating an invisible protective layer that bonds with the wheel surface. This type of protection is excellent at repelling water, dirt brake dust and contaminants, UV and oxidation protection, enhanced depth and gloss, all while making regular cleaning and maintenance dramatically easier.

Professional vs. DIY Application

While consumer-grade ceramic coatings are available, professional products and application often provides superior results and longevity for your Curva Concepts wheels. Professional-grade ceramic coatings and application typically offers better durability, consistent application, superior heat resistance.

That said, if you take your time, applying a ceramic coating in your driveway still offers superior results, as long as you choose a ceramic coating product that is intended for professional use, like the ones offered from 3D Car Care.

Preparation Process

Thoroughly clean wheels using the deep cleaning process outlined above
Remove embedded contaminants with an iron remover
Re-wash the wheels using the regular cleaning process to ensure wheels are completely dry and free of oils and leftover chemicals
Apply according to product instructions or have a professional apply the coating

Wheel Maintenance & Inspection

During your cleaning routine, make it a habit to inspect your Curva Concepts wheels for signs of damage like rock chips or scratches could potentially cause corrosion and for brake dust or road grime buildup in hard-to-reach areas like in the barrel or behind the spokes.

Cool Wheels: Always clean your wheels when they are cool to the touch. Cleaning hot wheels can cause the cleaner to evaporate too quickly, leaving residues and potentially damaging the finish.

Use Proper Tools: Avoid using abrasive brushes or pads that can scratch the surface of your wheels. Stick to soft-bristle brushes and microfiber cloths.

Check Tire Pressure: While caring for your wheels, take the opportunity to check your tire pressure. Properly inflated tires help to ensure even wear and optimal performance.

Roll Out

Proper care and maintenance of your Curva Concepts wheels is an investment in both aesthetics and performance. By following these comprehensive guidelines and using quality products like those from 3D Car Care, you’ll ensure your wheels maintain their stunning appearance while delivering optimal performance throughout their lifespan.

Remember that consistent maintenance is far easier than attempting to restore neglected wheels. By incorporating these practices into your regular vehicle care routine, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy the pride that comes with showcasing your immaculately maintained Curva Concepts wheels for years to come.