A carbon fiber steering wheel is a high-performance and visually appealing upgrade for your vehicle. To maintain its look and function, follow this care guide to keep it in top shape.

1. Regular Cleaning

• Frequency: Clean the steering wheel once a month or more often if it's exposed to frequent use.
• Materials Needed:
• Microfiber cloth (soft and non-abrasive)
• Mild detergent or specialized carbon fiber cleaner
• Warm water
• Isopropyl alcohol (optional for sanitizing)
• Steps:
• Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
• Gently wipe the surface of the steering wheel, paying special attention to areas that accumulate dirt or oils from hands.
• Avoid applying too much pressure, as carbon fiber is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof.
• Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe off any soap residue.
• Dry the steering wheel with a clean microfiber cloth.

2. Protect from Sun Damage

• Carbon fiber resin finish can degrade under prolonged exposure to UV rays.
• Use a Sunshade: When parking in direct sunlight, use a sunshade to protect the interior, especially the steering wheel, from UV damage.
• Apply UV Protectant: Once a month, apply a UV protectant designed for carbon fiber surfaces to prevent fading or discoloration. Make sure the protectant does not leave a greasy finish.

3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

• Do not use cleaners containing ammonia, bleach, or solvents, as they can degrade the finish and damage the resin layer on the carbon fiber.
• Stick to pH-neutral cleaners or ones specifically designed for carbon fiber surfaces.

4. Handling Grease and Oils

• Natural oils from your hands can build up over time, making the surface slick or dirty.
• Wipe After Use: To prevent buildup, wipe the steering wheel after each use with a dry microfiber cloth.
• Deep Clean: For stubborn grease, dampen a cloth with isopropyl alcohol and lightly clean the affected area. Follow up with a soft damp cloth to remove any residue.

5. Avoid Abrasive Items

• Do Not Use: Avoid using abrasive sponges or paper towels, which can scratch the carbon fiber’s finish.
• Be Mindful of Jewelry: Rings, watches, or other sharp items can leave scratches on the carbon fiber, so handle the steering wheel with care.

6. Polishing

• If the carbon fiber loses its shine over time, you can use a non-abrasive polish designed for carbon fiber or automotive-grade polishes.
• Polishing Steps:
• Apply a small amount of polish to a microfiber cloth.
• Gently buff the steering wheel in small circular motions.
• Remove excess polish with a clean microfiber cloth.
• Avoid over-polishing as it can wear down the protective clear coat over time.

7. Storage and Winter Care

• If your vehicle will not be driven for an extended period (e.g., during winter), consider covering the steering wheel with a soft cloth or steering wheel cover to prevent dust accumulation and UV damage.

8. Inspect for Damage

• Periodically inspect the steering wheel for any cracks or chips in the carbon fiber. If you notice damage, have it professionally repaired as it can worsen over time.

By following these steps, your carbon fiber steering wheel will stay in excellent condition, preserving both its aesthetics and functionality.

Carbon fiber exterior parts are a popular upgrade for vehicles due to their lightweight nature and sleek appearance. However, carbon fiber requires special attention to maintain its integrity and shine. Here's how you can care for your exterior carbon fiber components to ensure they remain in top condition.

1. Regular Cleaning

• Frequency: Clean the carbon fiber parts at least once every two weeks or more often if exposed to harsh conditions (rain, road debris, etc.).
• Materials Needed:
• Microfiber towels (soft and non-abrasive)
• pH-neutral car wash soap (avoid harsh chemicals)
• Buckets (one for soapy water, one for rinse water)
• Soft detailing brush (for tough areas)
• Steps:
• Rinse the carbon fiber parts with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
• In a bucket, mix pH-neutral car wash soap with water.
• Soak a microfiber cloth in the soapy water and gently wash the carbon fiber surface. Avoid using excessive pressure to prevent scratching.
• Use a soft detailing brush for tight spots or corners.
• Rinse with clean water and dry the surface with a separate microfiber cloth to avoid water spots.

2. Protection from UV Damage

• Carbon fiber parts have a clear coat that can degrade and yellow over time when exposed to UV rays.
• Use a UV Protectant: Apply a high-quality UV protectant specifically designed for carbon fiber. This should be done every few weeks, especially if your car is often exposed to direct sunlight.
• Park in the Shade or Use a Car Cover: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in shaded areas or use a car cover to protect the carbon fiber from excessive sun exposure.

3. Avoid Abrasive Cleaners and Tools

• Do Not Use: Harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or stiff brushes can damage the clear coat and resin layer.
• Always use microfiber towels and soft brushes for cleaning, as these are gentle enough for carbon fiber surfaces.

4. Washing with Care

• When washing the entire vehicle, wash carbon fiber parts separately or with extra caution.
• Avoid Automatic Car Washes: Avoid drive-through car washes, especially those with stiff brushes, as they can scratch the carbon fiber.
• Hand Wash Only: Hand washing is the safest option for maintaining the finish of carbon fiber parts.

5. Polishing and Waxing

• Polishing carbon fiber can restore its glossy finish but must be done with care to avoid removing the clear coat.
• Use a Non-Abrasive Polish: Only use polishes specifically designed for carbon fiber or clear-coated surfaces. Regular automotive polish may be too abrasive.
• Steps to Polish:
• Apply a small amount of polish to a soft microfiber cloth.
• Gently buff the surface in small, circular motions.
• Avoid over-polishing, as excessive buffing can wear down the clear coat.
• Apply Wax: Once every few months, apply a layer of high-quality automotive wax to the carbon fiber parts to provide an extra layer of protection and enhance the shine.

6. Handling Chips and Scratches

• If you notice chips or scratches in the clear coat, it’s important to address them quickly to prevent further damage.
• Use Touch-Up Clear Coat: For minor damage, you can use a clear coat touch-up kit designed for carbon fiber.
• Seek Professional Help: For more severe damage (deep scratches, chips in the resin), it’s best to have the part professionally repaired to restore the integrity of the carbon fiber.

7. Avoid High-Pressure Washing

• High-pressure washers can force water into the weave of the carbon fiber, potentially causing the resin to deteriorate over time.
• If using a pressure washer, keep the nozzle at least 3 feet away and use a wide spray pattern to minimize damage.

8. Dealing with Road Debris

• Exterior carbon fiber parts are more exposed to road debris, which can cause chips or wear over time.
• Protective Film or Ceramic Coating: Consider applying a protective clear film or ceramic coating to vulnerable carbon fiber parts (such as splitters, side skirts, or hoods) to prevent rock chips and scratches.

9. Winter Care

• During winter months, road salt can accelerate the wear and tear on carbon fiber parts.
• Regular Rinsing: After driving in winter conditions, rinse your car thoroughly, focusing on the carbon fiber parts, to remove salt and grime.
• Avoid Harsh De-Icers: Some de-icing products contain harsh chemicals that can damage the clear coat of carbon fiber. Opt for gentler products.

10. Inspect Regularly

• Visual Inspection: Frequently inspect your carbon fiber parts for signs of damage such as cracks, chips, or fading in the clear coat.
• Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any damage, take action immediately to prevent further deterioration.

By following these steps, you can ensure your exterior carbon fiber parts stay looking sharp and maintain their performance for years to come. Proper care is key to keeping that signature "Road Rush" finish pristine!