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10 Best Rim Cleaners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Armor All Car Brake Cleaner Dust Repellent, Cleaner for Tires, Wheels, Rims, 11 Fl Oz Each

The Armor All Car Brake Cleaner Dust Repellent serves as both a cleaner and a protective agent for tires, wheels, and rims. It stands out by forming an invisible barrier that helps keep rims cleaner for up to four weeks, which means less frequent cleaning is needed. This protective feature is a big plus for anyone looking to maintain their wheels' appearance without too much effort.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,145
Ease of Use
Protective Features

Most important from
5934 reviews

Ease of Use
Applies smoothly and cleanly without splattering on the car’s paint, making the process hassle-free and neat.
Protective Features
Delivers a deep, glossy shine that endures for weeks, maintaining a fresh look even after rain or dusty conditions.
#2
9.4 score

SONAX 02305050 Wheel Cleaner Plus (5L)

The SONAX Wheel Cleaner Plus stands out with its powerful, non-acid, and pH-balanced formula, making it suitable for all types of factory-installed wheels. This includes chrome, aluminum, steel, clear-coated, painted, plastic, and even magnesium finishes. Its enhanced cleaning power is noteworthy, being 30% stronger than its predecessor, SONAX Wheel Cleaner Full Effect. This makes it particularly effective for tackling the tough brake dust and grime commonly found on European car wheels, such as Mercedes, Audi, and BMW. A unique feature is the visual cleaning action; the solution changes color as it works, giving a clear indication of its effectiveness. It sprays on clear and turns deep red or purple, signaling its interaction with iron particles and other contaminants.

Rating
9.4
Ease of Use

Most important from
1381 reviews

Ease of Use
On properly cared for wheels, you can just spray on and rinse off for clean wheels with no need to touch.
#3
9.4 score

SONAX Full Effect Wheel Cleaner 230500 | Heavy-Duty Brake Dust Remover for All Wheels | Safe on Painted, Alloy, Chrome & Stainless Steel | pH Neutral, Acid-Free, with Color-Changing Action | 5 Liter

The SONAX Full Effect Wheel Cleaner is a strong choice if you're looking for a rim cleaner that tackles tough brake dust, oil, and road grime effectively. Its pH-neutral and acid-free formula means it’s gentle on a wide variety of wheel types—including painted, alloy, chrome, stainless steel, and more—so you don't have to worry about damage or fading. A standout feature is its color-changing action: the cleaner sprays on green and shifts to red or purple as it works, giving you a clear visual cue when the dirt is being dissolved. This makes it easier to know when to rinse off, which is quite handy if you want to avoid guesswork.

Rating
9.4
Ease of Use
Type of Rim Cleaner
pH Level

Most important from
5663 reviews

Ease of Use
This cleaner really dissolves brake dust and grime without the need for scrubbing, as long as you apply it to dry wheels and follow the directions carefully.
Type of Rim Cleaner
It cuts through even months of caked-on brake dust and road grime that other top brands couldn't remove without harsh scrubbing.
pH Level
Despite its strong cleaning power, the formula is acid-free and pH-balanced, making it safe to use on expensive and delicate rims like BBS, Enkei, and refinished wheels without causing damage.
Compatibility with Rim Material
It works well on a variety of wheel types including painted, alloy, and clear-coated wheels, though wheels with severe pitting or damage may require additional restoration.

Top 10 Best Rim Cleaners 2025 in the United States

SONAX 02305050 Wheel Cleaner Plus (5L)

Type of Rim Cleaner: Wheel Cleaner Plus
pH Level: pH-balanced
Compatibility with Rim Material: chrome, aluminum, steel, painted
Ease of Use: high
Protective Features: changes color when cleaning
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Buying Guide for the Best Rim Cleaners

Choosing the right rim cleaner for your vehicle is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of your wheels. Rim cleaners are designed to remove dirt, brake dust, and grime that accumulate on your rims over time. The right product will not only clean effectively but also protect your rims from damage. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a rim cleaner, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Type of Rim CleanerRim cleaners come in various types, including sprays, gels, and foams. Sprays are easy to apply and are great for regular maintenance. Gels tend to cling better to the surface, making them effective for heavy-duty cleaning. Foams can expand to cover more area and penetrate hard-to-reach spots. Choose a type based on how dirty your rims typically get and how much effort you're willing to put into cleaning them.
pH LevelThe pH level of a rim cleaner indicates its acidity or alkalinity. Acidic cleaners are very effective at removing tough grime and brake dust but can be harsh on certain types of rims, especially if they are not coated. Neutral pH cleaners are safer for all rim types and are less likely to cause damage. Alkaline cleaners are also effective and generally safer than acidic ones. If you have delicate or expensive rims, opt for a neutral or mildly alkaline cleaner.
Compatibility with Rim MaterialRims can be made from various materials such as aluminum, chrome, alloy, or painted surfaces. It's crucial to choose a cleaner that is compatible with your specific rim material to avoid damage. For example, some cleaners are specifically formulated for chrome rims, while others are safe for painted or powder-coated surfaces. Always check the product label to ensure it is suitable for your rim type.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor, especially if you plan to clean your rims frequently. Some cleaners require scrubbing, while others are spray-on and rinse-off. If you prefer a quick and hassle-free cleaning process, look for a product that offers easy application and minimal scrubbing. However, for heavily soiled rims, a cleaner that requires some scrubbing might be more effective.
Environmental ImpactConsider the environmental impact of the rim cleaner you choose. Some products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Eco-friendly rim cleaners are formulated with biodegradable ingredients and are less harmful to the environment. If environmental sustainability is important to you, look for products labeled as eco-friendly or biodegradable.
Protective FeaturesSome rim cleaners offer additional protective features such as anti-corrosion agents or a protective coating that repels dirt and brake dust. These features can help keep your rims cleaner for longer and protect them from damage. If you want to reduce the frequency of cleaning and add an extra layer of protection to your rims, consider a cleaner with these added benefits.

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