Best Value
$0.59/oz
Positioned as SONAX's heavy-duty wheel cleaner, marketed as '30% stronger' than their standard Wheel Cleaner Full Effect. The high thioglycolate concentration places it among the most potent iron-reactive wheel cleaners available. Premium pricing ($0.99/oz retail) reflects German brand positioning and professional-grade formulation.
Key Chemistry
pH Level
Active Mechanism
thioglycolate chelation
Surfactants
0 (amphoteric)
Expert Analysis
SONAX Wheel Cleaner PLUS represents German engineering at its finest, featuring one of the highest thioglycolate concentrations in the market (15-40%). The formulation uses a sophisticated citrate buffer system (citric acid + sodium citrate) to maintain a stable acidic pH of 5.1, which enhances the iron dissolution process. Unlike most competitors that use anionic surfactants, SONAX opts for cocamidopropyl betaine - an amphoteric surfactant known for mildness and excellent foam characteristics. The xanthan gum thickener ensures the high-concentration formula clings to vertical wheel surfaces for maximum dwell time. The 'acid-free' marketing claim refers to the absence of strong mineral acids (HCl, H3PO4), not the pH itself.
Key Differentiators
- •Highest thioglycolate concentration (15-40%) - tied with Jescar ReactShine
- •Citrate buffer system for stable acidic pH
- •Amphoteric surfactant (cocamidopropyl betaine) for mildness
- •German-engineered formula from established car care brand
- •No Prop 65 warning despite high active concentration
- •No serious eye damage classification (milder than P&S Iron Buster)
Potential Concerns
- ⚠Acidic pH (5.1) despite 'acid-free' marketing may confuse consumers
- ⚠Very high thioglycolate concentration (15-40%) increases skin sensitization risk
- ⚠Premium price point compared to US brands
- ⚠May be overly aggressive for light maintenance cleaning
Ingredients
Source: sb258 label
Safety Profile
Milder safety profile than P&S Iron Buster despite similar pH and higher thioglycolate concentration. No serious eye damage classification. No Prop 65 substances. Skin sensitization warning due to thioglycolate content.