Best way to clean wheels and keep brake dust off?

[sickspeed]

I know switching out the pads and rotors can help a lot but mine aren't due for a while so whats the best option in the meantime?

thanks

[helix139]

I know switching out the pads and rotors can help a lot but mine aren't due for a while so whats the best option in the meantime?

thanks

Sonax to clean and Armor All Wheel Protectant to keep them pretty dust-free.

[beantown]

Sonax to clean and Armor All Wheel Protectant to keep them pretty dust-free.

x2 OP see Phil @ Detailers Domain's recent thread on Sonax.

[Envious Eric]

clean really well

then opticoat them

then continue to wash with just water and soap!

[maga4]

I was thinking of slapping some of the Menzerna Power Lock Sealant on mine this weekend - did it after some finishing polish on the paint and looks good and seems to hold up well. Hoping it will either keep brake dust off (unlikely) or make it super easy to wipe off. Thoughts? Or would I be better off with the Opticoat mentioned above? Thanks!

[evil_O]

Sonax... from what I have seen from Detailer's Domain.

[beantown]

I was thinking of slapping some of the Menzerna Power Lock Sealant on mine this weekend - did it after some finishing polish on the paint and looks good and seems to hold up well. Hoping it will either keep brake dust off (unlikely) or make it super easy to wipe off. Thoughts? Or would I be better off with the Opticoat mentioned above? Thanks!

A less expensive and much easier alternative is Armor All Wheel Protectant. Albeit, I would never use any of their products in/on my car, this stuff is a total exception.

A surprisingly excellent formula.

[VroomVroom]

As others have mentioned, start with a really good cleaning. You may also want to use a clay bar, and/or a mild paint polish to remove any baked-on grime. When the wheels are nice and smooth to the touch, apply a good sealant. FWIW, I'm not a fan of the Armor All product. I use Poorboy's wheel sealant, which seems much more durable. Menzerna or other paint sealants are fine too - just follow the application directions for best results...i.e., a very light coat, with ample setup time prior to removing the residue.

This is all relative. Wheels (duh) face a much harsher environment than paint, so durability will be short. I get about two months, sometimes three, out of a coat, before I notice the wheels becoming a bit more difficult to clean...at which point it's all about rinse and repeat. :)