To avoid expensive auto maintenance, it is a smart idea to look after your wheels and rims throughout the year. These are three ways to prolong the life of your tires:
Be careful not to drive too close to curbs or bump into them while parallel parking can cause damage to your rims or, worse, even lead to them being bent. Modern rims are more convex than the tire’s edge. This means that they absorb most of the impact, making it easier to parallel park or avoid other drivers.
While you cannot do anything about bad drivers, but you can practice parallel parking. You can practice parallel parking with cones and other non-damaging objects so that you don’t scratch your rims. This technique could help you save hundreds on your auto maintenance expenses.
Make sure you use the right materials to keep your home clean
You can reduce the number of trips to an auto shop by cleaning your rims yourself. However, you run the risk that they will be cleaned with inferior or harmful materials. Steel wool can damage certain alloys. Acid cleaners will remove dust and protect the metal from corrosion. The cleaner must likely be removed in five minutes or less.
It is almost always a good idea to use soap and water with vigorous scrubbing. Although it may take longer, this will prolong the life of your wheels. Full-service car washes frequently use acid-based cleaners. Be careful when you bring in your car. They can cause more damage than good.
Get your winter wheels ready.
While most people know the importance of winter tires and snow chains when cold, snowy, or icy, not everyone knows that your rims also need to be looked after. Road salt can easily cause damage to expensive chrome rims. A second winter set can help both sets last longer.
Winter driving is easier with steel rims. They are lightweight, affordable, and heavy enough to prevent your cars from sliding around. They are also free of decorative finishes, so they’re less likely to get damaged or scratched.
Visit your local auto repair shop to inquire about the cost of maintaining your wheels and tires. Ask about brake pads and transmission problems while you’re there. These problems can lead to countless problems if they aren’t taken care of.