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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Cleaning wheels

Accumulated brake dust on Volkswagen Golf Mk7 steel wheels can only be removed with an industrial cleaner, which is why the manual recommends regular cleaning with a separate sponge. This page also covers touching up any paint damage on steel wheels before corrosion can set in.

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Cleaning steel wheels

Accumulated brake dust can only be removed with an industrial cleaner. Steel wheels should therefore be cleaned regularly with a separate sponge.

Any damage to the paint on steel wheels should be touched up before the metal starts to rust.

Caring for and cleaning alloy wheels

Wash grit and brake dust from alloy wheels approximately every 2 weeks. Then use an acid-free detergent to clean the wheels. Volkswagen recommends applying a hard wax compound to the wheels approximately every 3 months.

It is important to remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels at regular intervals, to deter corrosion to the alloy.

Always use an acid-free detergent for alloy wheels. Car polish or other abrasive agents should not be used on the wheels.

If the protective coating is damaged, e.g. by stone impact, the damaged area should be repaired immediately.

    Questions & answers

    Cleaning wheels — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    How should I clean the Golf Mk7 wheels?
    Use a separate sponge (not the body wash sponge) and a suitable wheel cleaner. Rinse first to remove loose brake dust, then wash and rinse again. Dry with a clean cloth.
    Can brake dust damage Golf Mk7 alloy wheels?
    Yes. Brake dust is corrosive and bakes onto the wheel surface over time. Regular cleaning prevents permanent etching and discolouration.
    Should I use acid-based wheel cleaners on the Golf Mk7?
    The manual recommends pH-neutral wheel cleaners. Acidic products can damage the wheel's lacquer coating, clear coat and valve stems.
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