Clear Coated Aluminum Wheels

[Slats]

What is the best product to use on clear coated aluminum wheels? This type of wheel is very popular, so that's why I ask. Since these wheels have a clear coat would it be better to use wax on them after washing or to use something like Meguiar's Gold Class All Metal Restorer since it has protective qualities? Do any of you regularly use this product on coated aluminum wheels?

Thanks,
Slats

[Mike Phillips]

Because your wheels have a clear coating of paint, you should treat them like you would any clear coat paint.

Meguiar's Gold Class All Metal Restorer does contain protection ingredients to help preserve and protect the finish on your wheels, but an automotive car wax will do the same thing.

If the clear coat is dull or hazy, you can use a gentle paint cleaner on it before applying a wax. ScratchX would work well followed by Tech Wax. You could also use ColorX.

Mike

[trans am 2000]

how can you tell if the wheels are clear coated or not? Anyone know if the shiny chrome wheels that come on the Trans Am's are clear coated? I just used the new Hot Rims/Cool Care All Wheel cleaner on them yesterday and they look pretty good...

[Slats]

Thanks for the speedy reply Mike! So does that mean that the GC Metal Restorer is more for bare metals? I bet it would work great on chrome. Also, which is the best or most aggresive (of the 3) wheel cleaners for clear coated wheels?

Thanks,
Slats