How to clean corroded aluminium wheels? 6 great steps

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How to clean corroded aluminium wheels?

Cleaning corroded aluminum wheels is a relatively simple process that can be done at home. In this article, we will explore the question “How to clean corroded aluminium wheels?”

Contents

How to clean corroded aluminium wheels?

To clean corroded aluminum wheels, you can follow these general steps:

1. Wash the Wheels: Start by washing the wheels with water to remove any loose buildup and dirt. Use a hose with a nozzle to work slowly, cleaning one wheel at a time.

2. Use Wheel Cleaner: Spray each wheel with a non-acidic wheel cleaner and use a soft bristle brush to work it into a lather on the surface of the wheels. Vigorously scrub the wheel wells with a stiff bristle brush and an all-purpose car cleaner to remove any remaining buildup.

3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the wheels thoroughly with water to remove the cleaner and any remaining debris. Dry the wheels with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or marks.

4. Apply Aluminum Polish: Apply the right alloy wheel cleaner or aluminum polish cleaner to remove the oxidation. Apply the product liberally to the corroded area and leave it for the recommended time.

5. Buff and Polish: Use a power polisher or by hand, buff out severe pitting and oxidation. Apply the polish using a clean/dry microfiber cloth, felt polishing disc, or a ball-shaped power polisher. Make sure you get the whole wheel before wiping it down with a fresh cloth to finish.

6. Preventive Maintenance: To prevent future oxidation, consider using a protective coating or wax on the wheels after cleaning and polishing.

It’s important to note that when dealing with severely corroded wheels, it may be best to seek professional help or use specialized products. Additionally, always wear protective eyewear and rubber gloves when working with cleaning products and polishing compounds.

what are some common causes of corrosion on aluminum wheels?

Some common causes of corrosion on aluminum wheels include:

1. Harsh Road Chemicals and Salt: Corrosion can be caused by harsh road chemicals, salt, and other corrosive substances coming into contact with the surfaces of metal hubs. In wetter or humid areas, water can also make its way to the hub via moisture, puddles, and rain.

2. Moisture: Moisture is one of the most common causes of wheel corrosion on wheel ends. When there’s no warm weather to vaporize the moisture, there is a lot more condensation forming on wheel end components.

3. Brake Dust: Brake dust, produced when conventional brake shoes make contact with rotors, can also contribute to corrosion on aluminum wheels.

4. Physical Damage: Physical damage, such as scratching or impacting the wheels, can compromise the protective finish and lead to corrosion.

5. Loss of Clear Coating: When the factory clear coat on wheels peels off due to weather elements, curb damage, or exposure to chemicals, the underlying metal is exposed to air and water, leading to corrosion.

6. Iron Contamination: Iron contamination can lead to corrosion, particularly when steel and alloy wheels are exposed to iron particles, leading to pitting and other forms of corrosion.

Understanding these causes can help in preventing and addressing corrosion on aluminum wheels, thereby maintaining their appearance and structural integrity.

what are some signs that your aluminum wheels are corroding?

Corrosion on aluminum wheels can be difficult to detect, especially in its early stages. However, there are some signs that can indicate that your aluminum wheels are corroding. Here are some common signs to look out for:

1. Discoloration: Corrosion can cause discoloration on the surface of the wheels, such as white patches or brownish spots.

2. Bubbling or Peeling Clear Coat: Corrosion can cause the clear coat on the wheels to bubble or peel, exposing the underlying metal to air and water.

3. Pitting: Corrosion can cause small pits or craters on the surface of the wheels, which can diminish their appearance and weaken their structural integrity.

4. Tire Leaks: Corrosion can cause tire leaks, which can be detected by a gradual loss of tire pressure.

5. Vibrations or Poor Handling: Corrosion can cause vibrations or poor handling, which can be felt through the steering wheel or seat.

6. Rattling or Thumping Sounds: Corrosion can cause rattling or thumping sounds while driving, which can indicate that the wheels are damaged.

7. Increase in Steering Effort or Steering Problems: Corrosion can cause an increase in steering effort or steering problems, which can make it difficult to control the vehicle.

In summary, some common signs that your aluminum wheels are corroding include discoloration, bubbling or peeling clear coat, pitting, tire leaks, vibrations or poor handling, rattling or thumping sounds, and an increase in steering effort or steering problems. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your wheels.

what are some ways to prevent corrosion on aluminum wheels?

There are several ways to prevent corrosion on aluminum wheels, including:

1. Regular Cleaning: Regularly cleaning your wheels with soap and water can help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and other contaminants that can contribute to corrosion. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners that can damage the wheels.

2. Use pH Balanced Cleansers: Use a pH balanced cleanser that will not strip away the wheel’s clear coating. This will help prevent iron contamination or accumulation of brake dust.

3. Apply Sealant or Wax: Applying a sealant or wax to the wheels after cleaning and polishing can help protect them from the elements and prevent future corrosion.

4. Avoid Harsh Road Chemicals: Avoid driving on roads that have been treated with harsh chemicals, such as salt, which can accelerate corrosion on aluminum wheels.

5. Use Iron-Free Brake Pads: Using iron-free brake pads can help prevent iron contamination, which can contribute to corrosion on aluminum wheels.

6. Inspect Wheels Regularly: Regularly inspecting your wheels for signs of corrosion, such as discoloration, bubbling paint, or small spots, can help you catch any issues early and prevent further damage.

7. Use Proprietary Technologies: Some wheel manufacturers offer proprietary technologies, such as vHub™ Bore Technology, that can reduce the hub-to-wheel contact and minimize the surface area available for corrosive agents to adhere to.

In summary, preventing corrosion on aluminum wheels involves regular cleaning, using pH balanced cleansers, applying sealant or wax, avoiding harsh road chemicals, using iron-free brake pads, inspecting wheels regularly, and using proprietary technologies. By taking these steps, you can help protect your aluminum wheels from corrosion and maintain their appearance and structural integrity.

how often should you clean your aluminum wheels to prevent corrosion?

To prevent corrosion on aluminum wheels, it is generally recommended to clean the wheels regularly. However, the frequency of cleaning can vary based on the driving conditions and the accumulation of brake dust, road grime, and other contaminants. Here are some guidelines:

1. Regular Cleaning: It is advisable to clean your aluminum wheels regularly to prevent the accumulation of brake dust, road grime, and other contaminants that can contribute to corrosion. This can be as often as every two weeks, especially in areas with harsh driving conditions or when the wheels are exposed to corrosive substances such as road salt.

2. pH Balanced Cleansers: Use a pH balanced cleanser that will not strip away the wheel’s clear coating. This will help prevent iron contamination or accumulation of brake dust.

3. Use Aluminum Wheel Cleaner: Using a cleaner made specifically for aluminum wheels can help prevent pitting and keep the wheels looking new. These cleaners are easy to use, simply spray each wheel individually and wipe clean.

4. Apply Sealant or Wax: Applying a sealant or wax to the wheels after cleaning and polishing can help protect them from the elements and prevent future corrosion.

In summary, the frequency of cleaning your aluminum wheels to prevent corrosion can vary, but regular cleaning, using pH balanced cleansers, aluminum wheel cleaners, and applying sealant or wax can all help in preventing corrosion and keeping your wheels looking new.

what are some tips for polishing aluminum wheels?

Here are some tips for polishing aluminum wheels:

1. Clean the Wheels Thoroughly: Before polishing, clean the wheels thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or contaminants that can interfere with the polishing process. Use a non-acidic wheel cleaner and a soft bristle brush to work the cleaner into a lather on the surface of the wheels.

2. Use Aluminum Polishing Compound: Apply aluminum polishing compound to a small section of the wheel with a clean cloth, working in the direction of the grain. Continue adding polish in small sections so that it doesn’t dry before you have a chance to work it in.

3. Buff the Wheels: Use a series of buffing wheels and compounds to smooth out the peaks and valleys of the aluminum surface. The spinning material of the buffing wheel works to remove oxidation and polish the surface.

4. Work in Small Sections: Work in small sections to avoid the polishing drying out before it is rubbed in. This will help prevent a streaky finish.

5. Avoid Rubbing in Circles: Avoid rubbing in circles, as this may cause a streaky finish. Instead, work in a straight line or in a circular motion that follows the direction of the grain.

6. Use a Small Soft Brush or Cloth-Wrapped Toothbrush: Use a small soft brush or cloth-wrapped toothbrush to get in those hard-to-reach spots.

7. Apply Finishing Polish: After polishing, apply a finishing polish to the aluminum wheels. This will help protect the surface and maintain its shine.

8. Protect the Wheels: Apply a sealant or wax to the wheels after cleaning and polishing to protect them from the elements and prevent future corrosion.

By following these tips, you can effectively polish your aluminum wheels and maintain their appearance and structural integrity.

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