Chemical Guys logo

Chemical Guys

Diablo Gel

surfactant-basedph-neutralgentle-formulawheel-safeready-to-useconsumer-grade

Best Value

$0.59/oz

1_gallon

A pH-neutral gel wheel cleaner that uses anionic surfactants and chelating agents for brake dust removal without harsh acids or alkalines.

Key Chemistry

pH Level

7.0

Active Mechanism

Surfactants

1 (anionic)

Dean
Dean's TakeJan 22, 2026

I don't use this as my primary wheel cleaner, but a couple ounces in my bucket adds lubrication to my wheels and tire contact wash. Worth a shot.

Expert Analysis

Uses sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate as the primary cleaning surfactant combined with chelating agents to break down brake dust and road grime. The pH-neutral formulation relies on surfactant action rather than chemical aggression, making it compatible with most wheel finishes. The gel consistency provides extended dwell time for improved cleaning performance.

Key Differentiators

  • Gel formulation offers superior surface adhesion compared to liquid cleaners
  • pH-neutral chemistry safe for all wheel types including delicate finishes

Potential Concerns

  • Low ingredient transparency makes it difficult to assess full formulation compatibility
  • May require more agitation or multiple applications on heavy brake dust buildup

Ingredients

10 disclosed
Proprietary Diluentwithheld
CAS: N/Adiluent
Proprietary Inorganic Saltwithheld
CAS: N/Achelating agent
Proprietary Fragrance Ingredientwithheld
CAS: N/Afragrance
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonatenot_disclosed
CAS: 68439-57-6surfactant
Proprietary Alcoholwithheld
CAS: N/Asolvent
Benzisothiazolinonenot_disclosed
CAS: 2634-33-5preservative
Proprietary Fragrancewithheld
CAS: N/Afragrance
Proprietary Colorantwithheld
CAS: N/Acolorant
Methylchloroisothiazolinonenot_disclosed
CAS: 26172-55-4preservative
Methylisothiazolinonenot_disclosed
CAS: 2682-20-4preservative

Source: california sb258 disclosure

Safety Profile

Signal Word
None
Eye Hazard
Non-hazardous per OSHA
Skin Hazard
Non-hazardous per OSHA
Corrosive to Metals
No
Flammable
No

Not considered hazardous by OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. Precautionary statements: Keep out of reach of children, seek medical advice if needed, dispose properly.