Graham Hill, Car Finance Expert, Warns Of Dangers Of Using Roadside Hand Carwashers

Tuesday, 13. April 2010

Warnings have been issued about the use of acid based wheel cleaners used by some roadside hand carwash outfits. The cleaner can actually damage the alloys as well as the brakes. The car washers can buy this cleaner for about £10 for 25 litres but it was only intended for building use, to clean brickwork. The car washers have to dilute the liquid but if it’s not diluted enough it can cause damage. If the wheel is in good condition the chances are that it will be OK but if you have any damage such as a wheel scuff it can do all sorts of damage. Some manufacturers recommend cleaners with a PH value, Porsche recommend a value of 9.5 but as it turns out few cleaners actually state the PH value on the packaging. Care needs to be taken over your choice of wheel cleaner, read the warnings and certainly be very cautious when having your car washed by hand by a side of the road outfit. By Graham Hill