How to Prevent Corrosion on Your Wheels
Contact UsIs Alloy Wheel Corrosion Dangerous?
Alloy wheel corrosion occurs when iron, oxygen and moisture react together to create rust. As well as looking unsightly it can also corrode the rim and wheel and speed up the wear and tear of the wheel itself.
As well as this, rust particles can risk clogging up valves in the wheel and transmission system, creating even more costly repairs.
If left for too long, corroded alloy wheels can become unsafe to drive on due to slow air leaks caused by friction between the tire and the rim, reducing tire air pressure and causing dangerous under inflation and affecting your car’s handling.
How to Remove Corrosion from Wheels
Taking care to remove corrosion from wheels as early as possible is vital to help prevent more serious issues further down the line and there are some simple steps you can take to keep it at bay.
First up, you should wash the wheel thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer to wash away any dust, dirt and grime. Then use a soft microfiber cloth to dry the wheel and avoid water marks using a circular motion.
There are plenty of alloy wheel cleaners on the market to choose from, so do your research to find the best one to suit your needs and alloys. Apply it to the corrosion and leave it for ten minutes before using a soft brush to remove the rust – apply pressure and scrubbing in a circular motion. For any tougher areas, use a 40-60 grit sandpaper and then use a 200-400 grit sandpaper to touch up and smooth the surface. Finally, protect the area with a wheel wax.
Alloy Wheel Corrosion Repair
If you’re looking for professional and careful repair and corrosion removal of your alloy wheels, be sure to get in touch with us at Power Developments. We are experts in Mercedes, Audi, BMW and MINI vehicles and have the knowledge and knowhow to repair your alloys and any other car repairs with the greatest of care and knowledge, while providing our services at a fair and affordable price.
If you would like us to provide alloy wheel repair or any other car service or repair, then please book in your appointment and we’ll keep your vehicle running perfectly. We’re specialists in luxury German vehicles and have built a reputation through Essex and London, nationwide and even internationally for our expert service.
What are the causes of alloy wheel corrosion?
There are a variety of things that can contribute to alloy wheel corrosion over time. Winter especially can be a big contributor with the extreme weather your wheels are up against during those months and the layer of grime that quickly builds up. One of the biggest reasons for alloy wheel corrosion is pitting on the surface, which occurs when the factory-applied clear coat wears thin and peels off. This can be caused by weather, road conditions and hitting a kerb and once exposed the metal is exposed the air and oxidizes.
How do I keep alloys in good condition?
While alloy wheel corrosion can naturally happen over time, there are steps you can take to help offset it and keep your wheels looking good. Regular cleaning is one of the best and easiest steps you can take and investing in a pressure washer or hose attachment is well worth it. Use a non-acidic cleanser and rinse well to remove brake dust early. Then polish alloys with a product specifically made for your wheels and rims. You might also want to look into a service such as electroplating, coating your wheels and rims with a metal such as chrome, zinc or nickel to help protect against corrosion.
Should I repair or replace my corroded alloy wheels?
The decision to repair or replace your alloy wheels will depend on the severity of the corrosion as well as personal choice and budget. If corrosion is still in the early stages, then you can easily keep on top of it and repair yourself with an alloy wheel cleaner and quality wax. If corrosion has become more severe then it might make more sense to replace your alloys. We’ll be happy to give you our honest opinion and recommendation.
