How to Protect Your Wheels from Salt and Brake Dust This Winter
Wheels take the worst beating during winter.
Salt, slush, brake dust, and grime all build up—and if left untreated, they corrode finishes fast.
This guide walks you through how to protect your wheels the right way, so they stay clean, sealed, and damage-free all winter.
Step 1: Pre-Winter Wheel Deep Clean
Start with a full cleaning using The Super Soaper in a pump sprayer or foam cannon.
- ✅ Breaks down brake dust, road grime, and old dressings
- ✅ Safe for all wheel finishes (painted, clear-coated, powder-coated)
Use a soft wheel brush or foam mitt to agitate without scratching, and rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: Apply a Wheel Sealant or Ceramic Spray
Once dry, protect the wheels using Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray.
- ✅ Adds a slick, hydrophobic barrier
- ✅ Helps prevent brake dust from bonding
- ✅ Makes future cleanups easier (especially during freezing weather)
Spray onto a microfiber, wipe onto the wheels, and buff clean.
Step 3: Dress the Tires
Salt and cold dry out rubber fast. Use All Dressed Up to keep your sidewalls looking rich, protected, and OEM-clean.
- ✅ No greasy shine—just clean and conditioned rubber
- ✅ Helps repel slush, road oils, and salt
Apply with a foam applicator or microfiber towel.
Step 4: Rinse Weekly
You don’t need to do a full wash every week—but rinsing your wheels with a pressure washer or hose helps prevent buildup.
If it’s below freezing, use a rinseless wash method with microfiber towels to wipe them down safely.
Pro Tip: Coat the Inner Barrel Too
Most people skip the inner wheel barrel—but that’s where brake dust piles up the fastest.
Use Tough As Shell here too for full-coverage protection.
Customer Testimonial
"Last winter I didn’t protect my wheels and they were stained by January. This year I used Tough As Shell and All Dressed Up—my wheels still look new halfway through winter."
— Kevin J., Verified Customer
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Conclusion
If you’re not protecting your wheels this winter, you’re risking long-term damage.
Take 10 minutes now, and you’ll save hours of cleaning and expensive repair work later.
Protect your wheels with Jimbo’s Detailing products or shop on Amazon before the season hits hard.
