How to Clean the Tires on Your Car

Does your idea of cleaning your car's tires involve a quick slosh of a soapy sponge followed by a quick hosing-off? You might want to consider a more thorough cleaning that is highly beneficial for you and your tires. Not only does it make the tires look nice, a good wash job allows you to keep regular watch on wear-and-tear. This helps prevent unexpected blow-outs from worn or damaged tires.

Things You'll Need

  • Tire dressing
  • Pre-treatment
  • Garden hose
  • Soft towel
  • Soft brush
  • Car soap
  • Wet the tires using a garden hose and water. If there is a lot of tar, road debris or film from brake fluid on them, you may wish to spray them with a pre-treatment product prior to beginning the washing step.

  • Use a soft brush and car soap to scrub the tires briskly, using a circular motion to loosen any dried-on dirt. A brush that is too firm could scratch the rims or hub caps on your car.

  • Rinse with clean water. If the tires still look dirty, repeat the previous steps.

  • Dry the tires with a soft towel.

  • Spray on a tire dressing which is available in any hardware or discount store with an automotive section. This will act like a protectant much like wax does for the car body, helping to keep the tires in better shape.