Austin Alloy Wheels

[benmartingolf]

Hi all,

I have just joined the forum and looking forward to reading up on the GTI after ordering one today. I opted for the standard Austin Alloys as i couldn't justify nearly £1000 for the santiago's. I was wondering if the Austin Alloys have issues scratching and if so can you get anything to protect them.

Also you see replica alloys of the santiago's floating around does anyone have any and if so what are they like?

Cheers

Ben

[Wo-Wo]

Hi

I cant comment on the re-pro wheels but as far cleaning and protecting your wheels you need to treat them exactly as you would the paintwork on the rest of the car.

Wash them regularly, make sure the mitt you use is always clean and free from grit etc and wax and seal them. I'd recommend Poorboys wheel sealant, it can be hard work to use but the results are great in terms of shine and protection. Any wheel with black inserts are a pain in the you know what, but if you follow the above steps and you'll be sound.

Also get a decent wheel cleaner, as any product that can help reduce the amount of contact you have with the surface is a win win!

[Booth11]

As above.

Apart from avoiding the obvious things such as kerbs, regular cleaning regime and good protection is key to keeping them in top condition.  I would add that you might wish to do a full decontamination of the wheels once or twice a year, using iron remover, tar remover and claying then seal with a good wax or sealant. 

Valet Pro Bilberry is a great ph neutral wheel cleaner and a good wheel mitt or wheel brush is a worthwhile purchase.  Poorboys Wheel Sealant is excellent, but like a wax, it needs to be regularly topped up, every few weeks.  If you're looking for something more long lasting, then Gtechniq C5 has great hydrophobic qualities to repel dirt and brake dust, beads nicely and you should only need to apply it once or twice a year.