So I found a deal on some wheel cleaner from WalMart. It wasn't until it was delivered that I saw it's "for clear coated wheels only!"

I had no idea such a thing existed -- I've never once heard anyone talk about "clear coated wheels" unless obviously they were painted. I have OEM wheels on my CL.... do they get a clear coat at the factory? Otherwise I guess I only wasted like $5

 

Maybe they mean, not for use on chrome wheels?

 

It was this stuff. It doesn't even say anything about chrome wheels on the back, either



So I guess just spray it on the tire?

 

yes, painted wheels from the factory are cleared.

 

Guessing it's something in the compound that can/may damage the finish/material.
I have some degreaser in the garage that explicitly says not to use on aluminum. Had to go a different route for the 13B as the rotor housings are aluminum.

 

if being cautious; spray on rag or brush. then wipe or brush the tire.

 

Almost all factory OE wheels will be clear coated. The ones that I'd be wary of are the diamond cut finishes and such even though those are also cleared for the most part.

Make sure you don't use that stuff on your carbon fiber wheels though.

 

I've been using that same Meguir's wheel cleaner for years. Works well but you need to scrub/wipe the dirt off, it isn't one of those that will just eat the dirt by itself and you just rinse.

 

I've never understood the need for wheel cleaners, you have to use a sponge or whatever so wouldn't soap work?

 

if cleaning the car on a regular basis, yes....soap is enough to cut through brake dust and other road grime.

if brake dust starts to embed into wheels, will need a more drastic/caustic solution.
and that's what these solutions are, caustic chemicals to eat through grime

thus the warning on the label "DO NOT USE ON..."

 

buy some ceramic coating and it'll make cleaning the wheels much easier.