Purple Power Degreaser Ruined Wheels

I have a set a SEMA 4th Gen 4runner wheels. This evening I tried cleaning my tires with some Purple Power. I sprayed, scrubbed, and rinsed each tire. Naturally the degreaser would get on the wheels but I swear I rinsed pretty good. Although it's dark outside, I noticed a slight discoloration on the flat black/matte color of the wheels. Looks like it's a slight white oxidation or really stubborn dirt that I can't wipe off. I was concerned so I went back and washed all wheels with soapy water but I do not see a change.

I think I've ruined the finish on these wheels. Will update with pictures in the AM. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Polish?

 

I've had good results cleaning tires with Meguire's All Wheel cleaner.

 

This is from the purple power faq sheets
Can Purple Power be used on Stainless Steel and Aluminum?
Do not use Purple Power on Stainless Steel or Aluminum as it could leave white streaks or a hazy film. If accidentally used on Stainless Steel or Aluminum and you have this residue, try buffing with a Metal Polish, such as Wenols or Mothers Metal Polish to restore finish.

You may as well have used battery acid on your wheels. This stuff is bad. Google the MSDS sheet info, you won't use it again!!!

 

Purple power is very caustic and can damage surfaces . It sure will peel the skin on your hands. Another one you may not suspect, Simple Green. They used to caution against use on aluminum. Maybe that has changed.

 

Nope.

You can dilute it and use it, but even then I never let it sit, rinsing it off very quickly. It's not what I'd recommend for most folks.

 

My Michelin tires ( about a year old) on the Subaru turned almost milk chocolate brown this winter. My son suggested Adams Tire Cleaner. That stuff is amazing. It made the tires look brand new. I bought a gallon of it. Scrub a little with a brush and it works it doesn't harm wheels as far as I know.

 

Adam's stuff is amazing. only stuff i use.

 

I had something similar happen on a set of wheels with the same finish, was never able to fix it, sounds like what you are describing.

Worst case scenario, VHT makes a matte epoxy paint in a can, #SP65? You could scuff and paint the wheel(s) the color is real close.

 

Thanks for the input folks. It was hard to really see and assess the damage last night. It was cold with slightly damp air. Matte black has its ways of looking slick or etched in wet conditions. Checked this morning, sunny day, and the wheels seem to look fine. There may be some small imperfections, but nothing crazy that would cause me to go out and buy a new set right away (or have them repainted).

This was quite a scare. Will not be using it again and will not be testing any products right before sun down anymore. LOL! Did some reading and researching and seems like matte finished wheels need some different care.

 

I have matte wheels, let me know what different care you find.

 

Hope others read this and realize use a product that is dedicated to the need. I always see a bunch of backyard detailers recommending some off the wall products on here...makes me cringe every time.

 

DO NOT POLISH MATTE BLACK! The polishes recommended above are for unfinished aluminum or stainless steel. Using them on matte black will remove the matte black finish and get you down to the base metal.

 

Go for prefessional detailing products in the future intended for use on rubber or painted wheels.
The cheapy stuff typically is a coin toss on whether or not it can damage finishes.