Tyre shine gives your wheels that freshly-detailed finish — but is it doing more harm than good? This guide explains how tyre shine works, whether it damages tyres, and how to use it safely. Learn which types are best for protecting both your tyres and your car’s look.
When it comes to your annual MOT, vehicle services, and any maintenance inspections and checks that you carry out at home, the tyres will always be a focal point.
But does appearance matter?
For countless drivers, their vehicle is the thing that they are most proud of – and as a result, they will channel both time and money into keeping it looking its best.
Of course, with the tyres being the one component of a vehicle that makes constant contact with the road surface or ground you are driving on, the tyres are subjected to an extreme amount of wear and tear. They suffer the lumps, bumps, and potholes that litter road surfaces, and can quickly appear worn – even if they’ve only been driven a limited number of miles.
With this in mind, more and more drivers are seeking ways of tidying and cleaning up their tyres – with tyre shine one product that’s often highly regarded. In this article, we’re considering what tyre shine actually is and whether it can cause any lasting damage to the tyres.
What is Tyre Shine and What Does it Do?
Tyre shine is a product that restores the appearance of tyres. It contains chemicals that cut through the grease and grime that often coat the exterior surface of the tyres, leaving a much cleaner finish.
Most tyre shine products are sold in spray bottles or in an aerosol format, which can be easily sprayed onto the tyres. After a short staying period during which the tyre shine can work its magic, the product can be wiped away – leaving behind a clean like-new tyre.
NOTE: There are both gloss and matte-look tyre shine and cleaners available on the market, giving drivers and vehicle owners a choice over the kind of finish they want to achieve.
Different Tyre Shine Products Available
As well as the gloss and matte-look tyre shine sprays that drivers can choose between, it’s also worth noting that the market is divided between water-based cleaners and oil-based cleaners.
Water-based tyre shine products tend to be easier to use and are often the product of choice among professional detailers.
Oil-based products, meanwhile, have a bit more staying power and facilitate longer lasting results. They also achieve a glossier appearance, ideal for those who want to make the tyres a focal point on their vehicle.
