A ready-to-use thioglycolate-based wheel cleaner that combines iron chelation and surfactant cleaning in a single formula for comprehensive wheel decontamination.
Key Chemistry
pH
Active Mechanism
thioglycolate chelation
Surfactants
3 (nonionic, amphoteric)
I first heard about the YumCars brand from YouTuber AutoCare HQ, a UK-based detailer. I've enjoyed using every product from the brand and I particularly like Yum Wheels, especially in conjunction with Wheel Foam and Yum Undress, their tire cleaner. It's sometimes a challenge to get their products in the US, but when in stock, grab 'em!
Expert Analysis
Uses sodium mercaptoacetate at 10-20% concentration as the primary iron chelator, working at a mildly acidic pH of 5 to dissolve iron particles and brake dust. The formula combines nonionic and amphoteric surfactants with the thioglycolate chemistry to provide both chemical iron removal and mechanical cleaning assistance through added slickness.
Key Differentiators
- •High concentration sodium mercaptoacetate (10-20%) provides strong iron chelation without harsh acids
- •Gel-like viscosity formulation designed to cling to vertical wheel surfaces for extended contact time
