In the past few months I've been doing a lot of research on auto detailing, etc. etc.
One of the most important parts to a clean car is wheels and tires, imo.
There are many products that range from $3 to $25 for simply 16 oz. of tire shine. Then double that for cleaning agents.
After testing and such other ways, I found a nice combination that some of you might like.
All products can be purchased from a local autozone or Wal-Mart.
The key to a well dressed tire is tire prep, which means a thorough cleaning.
Armor All Tire Foam (black cap) is a great cleaning agents and dressing for tires. I spray it on, let it sit for 1 min., and then scrub with a brush of some kind. This will get ALL dirt, grime, previous tire dressing build ups, off of the tire. Then simply rub the tire with a towel until most of the foam has either absorbed into the tire or has been cleaned up. The tire should now be silky smooth and have a slight gloss/shine to the surface.
I then like to use a gel, for it is the longest lasting tire dressing out there. Some gels cost up to $25 that I've seen, but I like to use Armor All Extreme Tire Gel which is under $6 and comes with a gel applicator pad. It lasts for a very very long time as well. Simply squeeze a little gel onto the pad and work into the tire, spreading it throughout the surface. A little gel goes a long way once absorbed into the sponge AND the tire has been prepped correctly.
If needed, you can gently wipe the tire of excessive gel with an old towel. Also a properly prepped tire greatly reduces excessive spin off from the gel.
Here are some pics of Armor All Tire Foam cleaner and then topped with Armor All tire Gel.
