Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour is a high-temperature ceramic coating specifically designed to provide long-term protection for your vehicle's wheels. This advanced formula repels brake dust and other contaminants, making wheel cleaning significantly easier. It is suitable for various wheel finishes, including standard, alloy, and powder-coated wheels, and can also be applied to brake calipers and exhaust tips.

2. Safety Information

• Always wear protective gloves during application to prevent direct skin contact with the coating.
• Avoid touching the coated surface with bare hands before it has been wiped off to prevent leaving fingerprints.
• Ensure adequate ventilation when working with the product.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• For external use only. Do not consume.

3. What's in the Box

Your Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour package typically includes:

• Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour bottle (15ml or 30ml)
• Application pads
• Instruction leaflet

Image: Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour bottle and its packaging, showing the product as it appears when unboxed.

4. Preparation

Proper preparation is crucial for optimal performance and durability of the coating. Ensure the wheels are completely clean and dry before application.

1. Clean the Wheels: Thoroughly clean the wheels using a dedicated wheel cleaner to remove all dirt, grime, and brake dust. For used wheels, a deep clean, compounding, or polishing may be necessary to remove embedded contaminants. You may also use a clay bar if desired.
2. Degrease: Use a Gtechniq Panel Wipe or similar degreaser with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any residual oils or polish. C5 will adhere best to surgically clean surfaces.
3. Ensure Dryness: The wheels must be completely dry prior to application. Any moisture can affect the coating's adhesion and curing process.
4. Work Indoors: Apply the coating indoors, away from direct sunlight and elements, to allow for proper curing. The wheels should not be exposed to elements for at least 12 hours after application.

Image: A clean, black alloy wheel, ready for the application of Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour.

5. Application Instructions

Follow these steps for effective application of Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour:

1. Prepare Applicator: Apply a small to medium amount of C5 Wheel Armour onto the application pad. Ensure the top portion of the pad is wet with the product.


Image: A hand applying Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour liquid onto a white applicator pad.

2. Apply to Wheel Barrels: It is recommended to start with the wheel barrels first, especially on new wheels. This allows for better control and prevents overspray onto already coated areas. Apply the coating evenly, making sure to cover all surfaces. The product will appear darker where applied, especially on darker colored wheels.


Image: A hand using an applicator pad to apply Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour to the inner barrel of a black alloy wheel.

3. Apply to Wheel Face: For intricate wheel faces, you may need to fold or shape the applicator pad to reach all areas, such as lug nut recesses and spokes. Apply the coating to one spoke at a time, working from the inside out. Keep track of which spokes have been coated.

Image: A close-up view of a hand applying Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour to a spoke of a black wheel.
4. Allow to Desiccate: Let the coating sit on the surface for approximately one minute. The exact time may vary depending on ambient temperature and humidity.
5. Wipe Off: Using a clean, soft microfiber cloth, gently wipe off any excess product. Start from the center and work your way outwards. The glossy appearance during application will return to the original satin or matte finish once wiped off.

6. Maintenance

Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour offers excellent durability, typically lasting 1-2 years. To maintain and potentially extend its lifespan:

• You can continue to use standard wheel cleaners and diluted all-purpose cleaners (APCs) without degrading the coating.
• Avoid physical agitation or abrasive compounds, as these can remove the coating.
• For enhanced durability and gloss, consider applying a ceramic topper like Gtechniq C2V3 Liquid Crystal over the C5 Wheel Armour.

7. Specifications

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues during or after application, consider the following:

• Uneven Application/High Spots: If the coating appears uneven or has high spots after wiping, re-apply a small amount of C5 to the affected area and immediately wipe off with a fresh microfiber cloth.
• Coating Not Curing: Ensure the application environment is within recommended temperature ranges and free from excessive humidity. Allow sufficient curing time (at least 12 hours indoors).
• Reduced Durability: Ensure proper surface preparation was performed, including thorough cleaning and degreasing. Environmental factors and harsh cleaning chemicals (if not diluted properly) can affect longevity.

9. Warranty & Support

For specific warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official Gtechniq website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.