I just gave Oby his first wash. With only 7K miles on, I can't believe it, but the brake dust is already impregnating itself into the inner portions of the wheels. These are the stock 16" wheels. Very smooth.

Is there a way to clean this crud off and protect the rims over the long haul? I had the same problem with my Miata, which I purchased used as well. Was never able to get the crud off with standard cleaners. I kept the wheels well waxed, which seems to have prevented further deteriation. But Oby is almost brand new, and I'd like to reverese the mess if possible.

Thanks,
Lee

 

You can try to use a "clay Kit" to remove impregnated brake dust. After cleaning use wheelshield from Prima. btw, you can post your questions in the detailing forum as well.

 

No offense, but washing the car every 7,000 miles or so is not apt to do much for keeping the brake dust from eating the wheels, wax or not. You may want to consider a whole lot more often than that milage interval.

 

I like wheel wax. I apply it every three months. It is easy on and easy off. I use it all all my German brakedust cars and it works wonders.

Enjoy your new to you ride.

 

I purchased some Meguiar's Hot Rims All Wheel cleaner to clean my OEM 15" holies. The bottle states "good for all factory-coated wheels", but then states "Do not use on anodized, magnesium, un-coated, or powder-coated wheels." Are the OEM Mini 15" holies painted or powder-coated?

 

That was my thought too. I wash my little car every week and do not have any problems with getting that wheel residue off. Try bumping up your washes, using a good wheel cleaner before washing the car and waxing the rims afterwards.

 

All of the OEM MINI wheels are painted...except maybe the GP or Sidewalk wheels, I haven't seen them up close.

 

I've found this is the best stuff to use, it even works for me with really thick brake dust.
http://www.eagleone.com/pages/produc...=1003&cat=5006
It foams up really well and dosen't run. Use it with a microfiber towel, FTW!

 

I think he meant that he has a total of 7,000 miles on the car .... NOT that he has not washed it for 7,000 miles He bought the MINI used.

He said:
"I had the same problem with my Miata, which I purchased used as well. "

I had to read the posting 3 times to see that, as it amazed me too.

 

Correct. I only have had the car a month. ;-)

I wash it once a week or so. LOL.

Going to solve the problem by getting some 17" R98 Rims.

Regards,
Lee