In the know: How to clean chrome car parts

Ford F-150

Chrome trims add a certain level of flair to a vehicle. These accents bring an air of class and sophistication that can make a car a timeless head turner. In addition, chrome trims also oftentimes hint at a vehicle’s place in the variant hierarchy. A car donning shiny and flashy ornaments compared to its not-so-swanky siblings are often the range-topping model.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • What are the cheapest ways to clean your car's chrome parts?

    You can clean your car's chrome parts with cheap household products like rubbing alcohol, toothpaste, and soda.
  • Are there specific commercial items for cleaning chrome car parts?

    Yes, there are specially formulated commercial products for cleaning chrome car parts.
  • Interested to find out how chrome-clad car owners take good care of their conspicuous coaches? Then, let’s look at how to clean chrome car parts.

    New Suzuki Ciaz

    1. Use alcohol

    One of the cheapest and fastest ways to clean a chrome car part is by using alcohol — rubbing alcohol to be exact. Nowadays, alcohol is everywhere, and chances are, you already have a bottle of it your pocket. Simply pour a good portion onto a towel or a microfiber cloth and rub your car’s chrome parts.

    Other car owners also say that toothpaste can help clean chrome parts, although, like alcohol, they’re only effective on minor dirt and grime as well as spots created by hard water.

    2. Use soda

    Sodas, like Coca-Cola do not only quench your thirst but can also double as a chrome cleaner. These beverages are made with various acids that can help in removing stains and rusts in chrome like phosphoric and citric acid.

    Simply pour a decent amount of soda on your car’s chrome parts. Be patient though as it works slowly since it has fewer phosphoric acid compared to traditional chrome cleaners. Nevertheless, using soda is a good choice if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative.

    Clean it with water, soap, and a sponge.

    3. Use a commercial chrome cleaner

    Commercial chrome cleaners are probably the most effective — albeit most expensive — way of keeping your car’s chrome parts squeaky clean. Compared to the aforementioned Coke and alcohol, commercial chrome cleaners are specially formulated to clean these kinds of surfaces.

    Photos from Ford and Suzuki

    Also read: 

    In the know: When to use your vehicle's hazard lights

    In the know: Driving habits that can harm your transmission

    In the know: Child safety lock

    Read All

    Featured Articles

    Recommended Articles For You

    Read All

    Featured Cars

    • Upcoming

    Car Articles From Zigwheels

    • News
    • Article Feature
    • Advisory Stories
    • Road Test
    • Toyota GT, GT Racing concepts showcased at 2025 Goodwood FOS
      Toyota GT, GT Racing concepts showcased at 2025 Goodwood FOS
      Cesar Miguel . Today
    • Hyundai Motor PH showcases new Santa Fe variant at HME tour Alabang leg
      Hyundai Motor PH showcases new Santa Fe variant at HME tour Alabang leg
      Paulo Papa . Today
    • Incoming Denza D9 makes Goodwood debut
      Incoming Denza D9 makes Goodwood debut
      Paulo Papa . Today
    • Tesla PH delivers over 1.5K units so far
      Tesla PH delivers over 1.5K units so far
      Cesar Miguel . Jul 17, 2025
    • Nissan Alabang recognized as best dealer at 2025 DOYA
      Nissan Alabang recognized as best dealer at 2025 DOYA
      Paulo Papa . Jul 17, 2025
    • Interesting police cars from around the world
      Interesting police cars from around the world
      Cesar Miguel . Jul 17, 2025
    • Affordable EV matchup: Dongfeng Nammi vs VinFast VF 5
      Affordable EV matchup: Dongfeng Nammi vs VinFast VF 5
      Cesar Miguel . Jul 16, 2025
    • Is driving stick still relevant to youngsters?
      Is driving stick still relevant to youngsters?
      Paulo Papa . Jul 15, 2025
    • Auto, motorcycle brands with horses in their badges
      Auto, motorcycle brands with horses in their badges
      Paulo Papa . Jul 14, 2025
    • Subaru Crosstrek vs. the competition
      Subaru Crosstrek vs. the competition
      Cesar Miguel . Jul 14, 2025
    • Do you still need to wash your car after it rains?
      Do you still need to wash your car after it rains?
      Cesar Miguel . Jun 12, 2025
    • What should you visit first at MIAS 2025?
      What should you visit first at MIAS 2025?
      Cesar Miguel . Apr 11, 2025
    • Do you really need 4x4 for overlanding?
      Do you really need 4x4 for overlanding?
      Cesar Miguel . Mar 26, 2025
    • Number coding 2025: what you need to know
      Number coding 2025: what you need to know
      Paulo Papa . Mar 09, 2025
    • EVs still require lubrication, JAMA execs say
      EVs still require lubrication, JAMA execs say
      Paulo Papa . Mar 09, 2025
    • Honda BR-V S CVT: all about that ‘base’
      Honda BR-V S CVT: all about that ‘base’
      Paulo Papa . Jul 09, 2025
    • Dongfeng Rich 7 4X4 Upper: ideal entry-level truck
      Dongfeng Rich 7 4X4 Upper: ideal entry-level truck
      Paulo Papa . Jul 07, 2025
    • First drive: MG ZS Hybrid+
      First drive: MG ZS Hybrid+
      Cesar Miguel . Jun 30, 2025
    • BYD eMAX 7 Superior Captain: MPV for modern families
      BYD eMAX 7 Superior Captain: MPV for modern families
      Paulo Papa . Jun 18, 2025
    • Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid: modest mover
      Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid: modest mover
      Paulo Papa . Jun 05, 2025