The quality of wheels affects the condition of car tires. It is not only related to the driver's safety but also influences the overall appearance of the vehicle. Therefore, daily maintenance of wheels is essential.

Daily Maintenance Precautions for Wheels:

1. When the wheels are hot, allow them to cool down naturally before cleaning. Do not clean them with cold water, as this may damage the aluminum alloy wheels and even deform the brake discs, affecting braking performance. Cleaning aluminum alloy wheels with detergent at high temperatures can cause a chemical reaction on the wheel surface, leading to loss of luster and poor appearance.

2. If there is hard-to-remove tar on the wheels and regular detergents do not work, try removing it with a brush. Do not use overly hard brushes, especially wire brushes, to avoid scratching the wheel surface. Experts recommend a home remedy for tar removal: apply "Huoluoyou" (a traditional Chinese medicinal oil for relieving muscle pain) and wipe it off—this often yields unexpected results.

Response and Handling of Damaged Wheels:

1. Clean the wheels first: use paint thinner to wipe the area around the scratch and remove dirt. Dirt in the deepest part of the scratch is hard to remove—you can use a toothpick to clean it thoroughly. During cleaning, to prevent accidentally applying paint to unrelated areas, carefully stick masking tape around the scratch. If there are stubborn stains on the wheel surface, use a professional cleaning agent. Such cleaners can usually remove stains gently and effectively, minimizing damage to the aluminum alloy surface. Wheels have a built-in metal protective layer, so be extra careful not to use paint polish or other abrasive materials during cleaning.

2. Prepare a fine-tipped brush, apply touch-up paint to the damaged area of the wheel. After the paint dries, apply a slightly raised layer to make it easier for the driver to check the repair.

3. Wait for the touch-up paint to dry completely, then use water-resistant sandpaper dipped in soapy water to smooth the surface. Next, use a polishing compound to restore the luster, and finally apply wax.

4. If a deep scratch is found on the wheel, first check if the metal underlayer is exposed. If no metal is visible, the wheel will not rust—you can focus on applying touch-up paint, dabbing it bit by bit with the brush tip, and waiting for it to dry completely. If metal is exposed, it is best to replace the wheel.

Additionally, drive carefully to avoid "hard damage" to the wheels caused by scratches or scrapes. Once there are scratches or deformation, repair and repaint the wheels as soon as possible. To prevent such issues, clean the wheels frequently when the car is still new. For vehicles driven daily, clean the wheels at least once a week: first rinse them with clean water, then scrub with a sponge and cleaning solution, and finally rinse thoroughly with plenty of clean water.