How to Clean Tires and Add Shine

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Chemical Guys is a trusted leader in the car care industry, known for unmatched expertise and innovative products. With a deep passion for automotive detailing, we provide the knowledge you can trust to achieve exceptional results.

In this comprehensive guide, we will demonstrate how to effectively clean and shine your car's tires, ensuring they look as good as new.

Tires often accumulate dirt, grime, grease, and other unpleasant substances from the road. By using the right tire cleaning products and tools, you can clean your tires and maintain their fresh appearance with ease.

Clean and well-shined tires enhance your car's overall appearance and protect the rubber from premature aging.

Prepare Your Gear

Everything You Need to Clean and Shine Your Tires:

Step 1: Clean Your Tires

Prepping a Car Tire for Cleaning
  • Set Up for Success
    Choose a well-lit location with easy access to all tires.
  • Apply Cleaner
    Spray Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner generously onto the tire surface. Let it sit for 5–10 seconds to break down dirt and grime.
  • Scrub Thoroughly
    Use the Big Blue Stiffy Heavy Duty Tire Brush to scrub in circular or back-and-forth motions, focusing on grooves and raised lettering.

    • Pro Tip: Spray extra cleaner directly onto the brush for tougher spots.
  • Wipe Away Dirt
    Take a folded Workhorse Professional Grade Microfiber Towel (we recommend black) and wipe away grime. Fold the towel as needed to keep a clean surface for wiping.
  • (Check out our Microfiber Towel Color Code System here to save your sanity while detailing.)
  • Final Inspection
    Check for missed spots and repeat the process as needed. Clean one tire at a time for a spotless finish!

Step 2: Time To Shine (and Protect)

Applying Chemicals Dressing to an Applicator Pad
  • Prep Your VRP Protectant
    Grab your VRP Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic Shine and Protectant, and shake well to activate the formula.
  • Apply to the Applicator
    Add a few dots of VRP to your Easy Grip Hex-Logic Applicator. Dab the applicator around the tire to distribute the product evenly, then work it into the surface for full coverage.
  • Wipe Away Excess
    Use a fresh black Workhorse Microfiber Towel to remove any extra product. This step ensures a sleek, professional finish while adding a protective barrier against UV rays and cracking.
  • Customize Your Shine

    • High Gloss: Buff lightly for a glossy finish.
    • Matte Look: Buff thoroughly for a natural, understated finish.

Pro Tip: Keep your microfiber towels in top condition—check out our blog, How to Clean Microfiber Towels the Right Way.

With this guide, achieving spotless, glossy tires that elevate your car's overall look is a breeze. Regular tire care doesn’t just enhance aesthetics—it also boosts durability and performance for the long haul.

Happy detailing!

Frequent Questions About How to Clean Your Car's Tires and Add Shine

Will VRP Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic Shine and Protectant damage my tires?

Not at all. VRP Shine and Protectant is specially designed to shield tires from cracking and protect against harmful UV damage.

How often should I clean and protect my tires?

Clean and shine your tires every 2-3 weeks or as needed, based on driving conditions.

Can I use the same Workhorse Microfiber Towel for different car parts?

Always use color-coded Workhorse Microfiber Towels for specific areas to avoid cross-contamination.

Will this process remove old tire dressings?

Use Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner and the Big Blue Stiffy Brush to scrub away dirt, grime, and old product residue.

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