There's something undeniably eye-catching about gleaming chrome exhaust tips to cement the look of your ride.
Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply take pride in your vehicle's appearance, maintaining the shine on your exhaust tail pipe chrome tips is crucial. Unfortunately, this takes a little more than a quick wipe with a cloth from the garage, so to help, our team at DEA Performance have compiled six of the best ways of cleaning chrome exhaust tips, as well as the steps to keep them looking their finest.
Why Invest in Chrome Exhaust Tips?
Although they won’t improve the performance of your car, universal chrome exhaust tips are a popular aftermarket accessory that attaches to a vehicle’s exhaust pipe and delivers a range of benefits, including:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Chrome exhaust tips offer a reflective, mirror-like shine that can instantly elevate the overall style of your car.
- Durability: With a layer of chromium placed over a base material like stainless steel or aluminium, these exhaust tips hold a protective layer that fights off impurities like rust, grime and corrosive elements brought on by exposure to harsh weather conditions and road debris.
- Increased Resale Value: A well-maintained vehicle with attractive chrome exhaust tips can potentially command a higher resale value. Prospective buyers may appreciate the added touch of style and perceive it as a sign that the owner has taken good care of the vehicle.
- Improved Exhaust Sound: While chrome exhaust tips primarily serve as a cosmetic addition, some designs can slightly alter the exhaust sound by changing the resonance within the pipe, leading to a deeper, throatier note.
How to Clean Chrome Exhaust Tips – Our Recommendations
1. Use Chrome-Specific Cleaning Products
When cleaning chrome exhaust tips, not just any cleaning products will do. Some general-purpose cleaners can dull or even damage the chrome finish, so it is essential to only apply products specifically designed for chrome surfaces.
Chrome-specific cleaners will preserve the shine you’re after and remove stubborn dirt and stains. Apply the cleaner as per the manufacturer's instructions using a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge for the best results.
2. Clean Regularly
Consistency is key when it comes to keeping your chrome exhaust pipe tips in tip-top shape. Depending on your driving conditions and environment, you may need to clean your exhaust tips as much as once a week, or only once a month.
Be sure to use a soft cloth, gentle soap, and warm water to avoid scratches and maintain the integrity of the chrome finish.
3. Polish Your Chrome Exhaust Tips
For an extra level of shine, be sure to add polishing the chrome exhaust pipe tips to your cleaning schedule. The polish enhances the gleam and introduces another protective layer against dirt and grime.
For effective results, be sure to:
- Choose a high-quality chrome polish that's suitable for your dual chrome exhaust tips or universal chrome exhaust tips.
- Apply the polish with a soft, clean microfiber cloth, working in small, circular motions.
- Finish off by buffing the surface until you achieve the desired shine.
Throughout the process, you can try using automotive-grade 000 steel wool that is slightly more abrasive than polish, helping to remove more stubborn spots of carbon build-up or scratches.
4. Protect Your Chrome with a Sealant
Applying a specialised chrome sealant can provide an extra layer of protection for your exhaust tips, helping to keep them looking shiny and new in even the toughest conditions. Chrome sealants close the gap on seams, joints, and fasteners, and create a waterproof bond that repels water and dirt, ensuring your exhaust tips remain clean and bright for longer periods.
Choose a high-quality sealant specifically designed for chrome surfaces, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and maintenance.
5. Avoid Highly Abrasive Materials and Harsh Chemicals
While it may be tempting to use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals to remove stubborn dirt and stains from your chrome exhaust tips, these can do more harm than good.
Overly abrasive brushes and harsh chemicals can scratch, dull, or impair the chrome finish, ultimately detracting from your exhaust tips' appearance and even hindering its longevity. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning tools, products and preventative measures specifically designed for chrome surfaces, as well as a more frequent cleaning schedule, to avoid stubborn build-ups and excessive oxidisation.
6. Regularly Inspect for Damage and Corrosion
Early detection of damage or corrosion on your chrome exhaust tips is vital to mitigate its impact. Inspect your exhaust tips regularly for any scratches, pitting, or rust. If you notice any issues, don’t delay – follow the tips above as soon as possible to bring back the shine to your tips.
Browse the Selection of Dual & Universal Chrome Exhaust Tips at DEA Performance
Searching for new or replacement chrome tips for exhaust systems in Australia? Want some more information on how to clean chrome exhaust tips? Review our selection of chrome exhaust tips or contact us at DEA Performance today.
