Best Tire Shine: How to Find the Right For Your Preference

A tire shine is a product designed to give your tires a shine. Some of these products even offer protection to your tires making them last longer. Finding the best tire shine may be a daunting task considering the plethora of products available. Read on to learn the best products for each preference, why you should use them, and how they work.

Best Tire Shine Products – Overview

Best Overall	CarGuys 5864129784	Check Price
Best Gel Shine	Meguiar’s G7516	Check Price
Best Spray Shine	Trinova 33511	Check Price
Most Durable	Black Magic 80002220	Check Price
Most Affordable	Chemical Guys TVD11316	Check Price
Best Water-Based	Carfidant CARF-C307	Check Price
Premium Choice	Chemical Guys TVD10716	Check Price
Best High-Gloss	Meguiar’s G190315	Check Price
Easiest to Apply	Meguiar’s 13919	Check Price
Mess-Free Shine	Armor All Extreme 9938	Check Price

Why You Need a Tire Shine

Most people use tire shines intending to make their tires look shiny and blacker. Tire shines bring out the natural black color of tires to ensure they have a deeper luster. This ensures they stand out with a high shine and rich color. What most people don’t know is there are other benefits associated with tire shines. So what are the benefits of a tire shine?

Benefits of a Tire Shine

There are three main benefits of a tire shine. For starters, they are used to rejuvenate old tires to make them look like they are fresh from the factory. For not-so-old tires, they ensure you can maintain the shine and gleam your vehicle’s tires had when it was new. This is the reason why most people go for tire shines.

Read our full tire buying guide.

Secondly, the majority of present-day tire shines come with added protection for your tires. They protect them from dirt, debris, and grime. This ensures the tires have less wear and tear resulting from the effects of prolonged dirt and grime.

Thirdly, the majority of these products also offer protection against elements that may potentially harm tires. They mainly protect from UV rays from the sun. These rays are the most harmful elements on tires.

They damage the natural rubber compounds. Getting a product with UV protection marginally increases the lifespan of your tires. It also reduces their chances of turning brown or cracking.

What Is It Made of?

A tire shine is a combination of many polymers and chemicals. The exact composition varies from one product to another. Some manufacturers and companies keep their formulas as a closely guarded secret. That said, they are categorized as solvent or water-based.

Solvent Based

They are made using similar ingredients as their water-based counterparts. The difference is they are suspended in solvents. If solvent-based products are not used properly, they can damage the tires. However, it would take a plethora of applications before such a situation arises.

Solvent-based tire shines are more preferred by users of the product. People who have used them claim they tend to “bond” with tires better. This makes them last longer than their water-based counterparts. Additionally, they offer a better finish when it comes to high-impact, statement tires.

Water-Based

These are a more natural option typically made using naturally occurring polymers and oils suspended in water. This means they are less abrasive to the rubber of your tires. The application can be done as much as possible without the risk of damaging the tires.

On the downside, they don’t last as long as their solvent counterparts. Additionally, they don’t provide the same shinier finish as solvent-based products. If you don’t mind an average shine, then go for water-based products.

Types of Tire Shines

There are two main types of tire shines namely gel and spray. The difference mainly lies in the application.

Gel

For starters, these are typically more affordable than spray products. The downside is they take longer to apply. The hands-on approach allows for more control over the amount of product used on the tire. The good news is gel products have a more even and smoother application. This gives your tires a uniform look.

Another benefit of gel products is the reduced risk of contact with rims, overspray, and runs. Some gels come with an applicator specifically designed to apply the product to your tires. If you get one without an applicator, you can use a dry clean cloth. If you use a cloth, make sure you use it only for the application of the gel. Using the same cloth for multiple purposes will contaminate the gel.

Spray

Sprays cost more, although they are easier to apply than gels. One of the concerns associated with sprays is the slinging effect. This is where the product is thrown off the tires and onto your vehicle’s bodywork.

To avoid this, you need to ensure you wipe down the tire after spraying it with the product. There are also fast-drying, non-oily options to help you prevent slinging. Make sure you always follow the instructions that come with your spray bottle before you start using it.

Try and get a spray tire shine that comes with a clean spray nozzle. It will ensure you get a more even and smoother application. A clean nozzle also prevents the likelihood of overspray. Overspray occurs when you spray too much product such that it ends up on the wheels or the bodywork of your car.

Features to Look for In a Tire Shine

There are several features you need to look for in a tire shine. Apart from the type, you need to consider things like:

Ease of Application

Some products are easy to use. You just hold the can in front of you and spray the desired areas of your tires. Others tend to be more labor-intensive. You may be required to do multiple applications while ensuring there is some drying time in between. When considering your buying options, remember to note the effort and time you are willing to invest.

Take note some spray products may require more work than advertised. A dripping or uneven application is possible with some spray-on products. In such cases, a wipe-down is recommended. This ensures the removal of excess product and even application.

UV Protection

UV protection is another key feature you should look for in a tire shine. Some of the products we have listed above will provide this to some degree. Think about it like sunscreen. Some products offer more protection than others. If you reside in a particularly sunny or hot area, it may be wise to invest in a product with UV protection.

Be on the lookout for terms like “UV Blocker Additive” on the product. Other features that can be helpful include a moisturizer or conditioner. Heat and the sun cause your tires to leach chemicals that keep the rubber pliable and soft. A product with such features also reduces cracking, fading, and drying.

Shiny Finish

Get a product that will deliver the kind of shine you want. For instance, products that state satin finish or new tire will not get you a high shine no matter how much you apply it. Remember that high gloss or wet shines are slightly harder to maintain. They also have a higher probability of attracting dust and dirt.

Tire Shine Maintenance

Don’t use these products on hot tires. Surface heat affects the product’s ability to successfully fully bond with your tire’s surface. Once you apply the product, avoid leaving your tires in direct sunlight. Find a shade or throw a sheet over the vehicle before you apply the shine. Remember to also avoid the rain as it may wash off the product.

The best way to get optimum results is by applying tire shine on clean and dry tires. To ensure your tires a clean, wash them before you apply the product. Scrub the tires with an ordinary brush and rinse them thoroughly. Dry them with a clean towel before you apply any tire shine product.

Our Top Picks for Tire Shines

Best Tire Shine Gel – Meguiar’s G7516

If you are looking for a high endurance tire shine gel, Meguiar’s G7516 is the tire shine gel for you. It uses an advanced formula to withstand rain and regular washing. This ensures you get a high level of protection.

The Meguiar’s G7516 has a rich gel that is easy to apply. You can apply it cleanly and evenly with no runs, drips, or overspray. You get good results because the product offers maximum protection against browning and UV damage. It also gives your tires a new pleasant look.

Additionally, it promises to maintain a rich black shine thanks to advanced polymers. They offer long-lasting protection. This means your tires get a nice gloss finish while maintaining a rich black shade. On the downside, there are reports of the product slinging easily. The good news this only happens when you use it excessively.

Pros

• Coats tires evenly
• Keeps tires black and shiny
• Protects against UV damage
• High endurance gel withstanding washing and rain
• Gives a glossy finish

Cons

• Slings easily

Best Tire Shine Spray – Trinova 33511

The first thing you notice with the TriNova 33511 is the great spray bottle. It makes applying the product a breeze. The product forms a protective coating over the tires and offers a nice gloss. This protects the tires by slowing down their aging and protecting them from harmful UV rays.

The spray lets you easily customize the shine you want. You can choose to get a high, medium, or low shine. For this to occur, you need to alter the time you let it set on the wheels. A high-end shine is achieved by letting it stay for long on your tires.

Another benefit is you don’t need to apply the shine several times a week. One spray can last for a couple of weeks. It also repels grime and dirt assuring you of long-lasting tire protection. On the downside, the formula can run a little. Make sure you apply the right amount to avoid it streaking your tires.

Pros

• Protects against aging
• Lasts relatively longer
• Allows for low, medium, and high shine
• Repels dirt and grime
• Convenient and simple spray application

Cons

• Can be a little runny

Best Overall Tire Shine – CarGuys 5864129784

Combine patented polymer additives and a potent formula you get this product. This means you can easily keep your tires in great shape when you use CarGuys 5864129784. The additives enhance the performance and longevity of the product. It is one of the main reasons why we found it to be the best overall tire shine option in the market.

When you use the product for the first time, you will notice a deep wet black gloss. Additionally, there is a protective UV shield created that you cannot see with your eyes. Another plus is it bonds with the tires to avoid run-offs created by high speeds.

Furthermore, it lets you choose either a wet-looking high gloss glaze or a rich deep black shine. You can also use the product as a trim restorer.

Unlike some tire shine products, this one is safe to use on all tire types, more environment-friendly, and non-toxic. The package comes with a tire dressing applicator to make the application process easy and fast. Unfortunately, the included brush is cheap and may not last long.

However, for the first ten or more applications, it is good enough to do the job. You also have the option of getting a better brush or applicator when you order the product.

Pros

• Easy application
• Restores faded surfaces
• More environmental-friendly
• Protects against UV rays
• Contains polymer sealant additives for improved performance

Cons

• Comes with a cheap brush

Best Durable Tire Shine – Black Magic 80002220

You get one of the longest-lasting tire shine when you use Black Magic 80002220. Apart from protecting your tires, you get a fantastic shine known to last up to 2 weeks. Additionally, it is designed to enrich your tires by protecting, cleaning, and shining them.

The tire shine is in is a thick foam that sticks to the tire. This allows the ingredients to break down clinging road grime, mud, dust, and debris. The result is cleaner, well protected, and shinier tires. It does not leave white residue as some other cheaper tire shines.

When you use the product, you will note it comes with an easy-to-control spray. This ensures you get excellent coverage. The good news is you can easily use it on dry and wet tire surfaces.

As a car owner, you are likely to prefer a versatile product that you can use for various purposes. This product does not have the versatility you may find on other products. However, it has the most durable results.

Pros

• Provides a residue-free shine
• Easy to control the spray pattern
• Foam action starts cleaning immediately
• Applicable on both dry and wet tires
• More durable

Cons

• Lacks versatility

Best Budget Tire Shine – Chemical Guys TVD11316

Are you looking for a pocket-friendly tire shine from a leading brand? Then Chemical Guys TVD11316 is the product of choice. This tire shine ensures you don’t spend money to enhance your tire’s appearance without compromising on quality.

For starters, you can use it on a variety of surfaces as it is designed for exterior and interior use. Better yet, it works on different materials including vinyl parts, textured plastic, and rubber.

One of the features you will appreciate when you use the product is it leaves a clear look when it has dried, without attracting dust and dirt. It is made using UV blockers and extra gloss enhancers. They are designed to prevent harmful UV rays from causing tire damage.

When it rains, the shine may cause some surfaces to have a runny look. The solution to the problem is a simple wipe.

Pros

• Doesn’t attract dust or dirt
• Prevents adding by blocking UV rays
• Versatile (can be used on bumper parts, grates, and plastic mirrors)
• Relatively affordable
• Designed for interior and exterior surfaces

Cons

• Can leave some surfaces looking runny

Best Water-Based Tire Shine – Carfidant Ultimate CARF-C307

Water-based formula is used to develop the Carfidant Ultimate CARF-C307 tire shine. Besides being more effective at protecting and cleaning the tires, it is safe for the environment and your vehicle. It is highly effective thanks to its advanced nano-polymer coating technology.

When you use it, you will notice your tires have a wet and slick finish. This offers them more durability and a showroom-like appearance.

The unique formula makes sure you can regulate the shine levels to suit your needs. You can use it on any kind of tire. Additionally, it offers protection from road grime and UV rays.

A benefit is it comes with an applicator, although it is not the best quality in the market. This should not be a deal-breaker as others in the price range do not offer an applicator.

Pros

• Protects against all road grimes
• Suitable for use on any tires
• Easy to control shine level
• Leaves a pleasant wet and slick finish
• Advanced water-based formula

Cons

• Comes with a low-quality applicator

Best Tire Shine Brand – Chemical Guys TVD10716

Chemical Guys is a renowned vehicle accessory brand. It has been making vehicle maintenance and cleaning products for the past several decades. If you are looking for the best brand in the market, then Chemical Guys TVD10716 is the tire shine you should use.

Apart from being a top brand product, it is referred to as a refined tire shine. Chemical Guys TVD10716 penetrates the tires to restore and nourish them. Furthermore, it works well on any interior or exterior surface. It ensures any surface it is applied to is protected from fading.

Unlike other shines, it is designed to repel water and dirt. As such, it ensures your tires are clean for a longer time. The Chemical Guys TVD10716 uses a glossy and water-based formula. This means you get a deep wet and long-lasting look when you use it.

Another good feature is it remains dry to the touch within a short time of applying it. Although you will not get super shiny tires, you get sufficient tire protection.

Pros

• Remains dry to the touch
• Keeps tires clean by repelling water and dirt
• Helps protect and restore faded surfaces
• Penetrates deep to nourish tires
• High-quality product by a top brand

Cons

• Doesn’t make tires very shiny

Best High Gloss Tire Shine – Meguiar’s G190315

Are you looking for an insane tire shine? Then Meguiar’s G190315 is our top pick. It is our option for a high gloss finish because it uses advanced resin technology. This makes it have a more durable finish.

For starters, it has anti-odorants as part of the developed formulation. This means Meguiar’s G190315 protects against cracking and fading to keep your tires in great shape for the foreseeable future.

The shine is not the only thing you get. A soaking wet-look is also an advantage that allows you to get recognition as you drive along streets, roads, and highways.

Another benefit is the ease of use and convenient use. You just need to spray your tire and you are done knowing you have taken care of your tire’s exterior. The aerosol takes care of everything! The downside is it takes longer to dry than others in its category. However, when it dries you realize it was worth the wait.

Pros

• Easy and convenient application
• Pleasant soaking-wet look
• Protects against fading and cracking
• More long-lasting finish
• Leaves an unparalleled finish

Cons

• Longer dry-time

Easiest Application Tire Shine – Meguiar’s 13919

Meguiar is good with tire shines and the Meguiar’s 13919 is no different. The product uses foam as its tire shine deployment mode. However, it is one of the easiest for application. The merits of this tire shine are cleaning, protection, and shine!

Water-resistance is one of the things you will notice with this product. Meguiar’s 13919 uses water-resistant polymers to ensure the foam lasts for weeks. Furthermore, it maintains a well-maintained look for many days. Unlike other cheaper options using foam, it clings to your tire perfectly. This means when you spray it there is a lack of spilling and messes on the tires.

Your tires are protected from harmful UV rays using a UV protection formula. The formula ensures a protective layer is placed on the tire to protect them from UV rays. Although the sprayer does not consistently spray in the same direction or accurately, it is a small problem considering how easy it is to spray the product on your tires.

Pros

• Lasts for several weeks
• Contains water-resistant polymers
• Protection against UV rays
• Protects while cleaning and shining
• Takes less time and effort to apply

Cons

• The sprayer is not always accurate when you spray

Mess-Free Tire Shine – Armor All Extreme 9938

For this product, the development incorporates an advanced formula to offer you a great tire experience. The first thing to notice is a non-messy spray thanks to its precision applicator. Take note this is a gel-based tire shine. You get a smooth coating and wet black shine. Both last long to give your tires a stunning experience.

Many external, environmental, and other factors affect your tires as you drive in different locations. This product is designed to be applied easily to protect your tires from such. Once you apply Armor All Extreme 9938, you will notice it doesn’t dry quickly. Just give it about ten minutes to dry and you will reap the benefits.

Pros

• Forms durable and resilient coating
• Protects against harmful elements
• Creates an even and smooth look
• Preserves rich black shine of your tires
• Doesn’t create a messy overspray

Cons

• It is a little wet to touch
• Dries longer

Tire Shine FAQs

Conclusion

Tire shines are products designed to offer a simple and effective method of taking care of your car’s tires. This can only work when you get the right products considering the many options available.

The car buying guide combined with the recommendations we have provided above should give you an insight and direction of making the right choice. With this in mind, the CarGuys 5864129784 is our pick. Why? It has a highly effective nano-polymer formula.

However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the perfect product is the Chemical Guys TVD11316 tire shine.