Black tarnish on wheels? What is it?

[TNTitan]

Hey gang - I've been noticing this on my wheels for some time. 2009 3.8 with 18" wheels.

I do use the automated car wash nearby, but that doesn't explain the tarnishes toward the hub.. anybody got any idea what this, and how to fix it?

Thanks!

 

[ckon]

Hey gang - I've been noticing this on my wheels for some time. 2009 3.8 with 18" wheels.

I do use the automated car wash nearby, but that doesn't explain the tarnishes toward the hub.. anybody got any idea what this, and how to fix it?

Thanks!

Is it greasy? Can you scrape it with your fingernail?

 

[TNTitan]

Is it greasy? Can you scrape it with your fingernail?

Definitely not greasy. Feels recessed, and I can feel the edges around each spot.

 

[homeofstone]

Strong chemicals have removed the finish on your wheels. It is peeling off.

 

[TNTitan]

Strong chemicals have removed the finish on your wheels. It is peeling off.

Not good. So they need to be refinished? Is that doable and is this a common problem with these OEM wheels?

 

[dareckibmw]

Well, those are 6 years old rims, I am not surprised they peeling off already. Homeofstone is right.

I would powder coat them, ~50-75+ bucks a piece.

 

[TNTitan]

Well, those are 6 years old rims, I am not surprised they peeling off already. Homeofstone is right.

I would powder coat them, ~50-75+ bucks a piece.

Thanks for the advice. Is there something I should do to protect them once they are powder coated? I use the same auto wash that all the high end cars around here go through... Or is this just the cause and effect of washes over time?

 

[homeofstone]

Thanks for the advice. Is there something I should do to protect them once they are powder coated? I use the same auto wash that all the high end cars around here go through... Or is this just the cause and effect of washes over time?

It is not common. Do not use wheel cleaner or choose wheel specials at car washes. Regular soap and water will clean them. Mine still look like new after 151,000 miles. I wax them twice a year and never use strong wheel cleaners, only mild car wash soap and water. If you live in a snowy area and leave road salt on them for months then it will also ruin the finish.

 

[dareckibmw]

Powder coat is pretty much bulletproof. I did my wheels on my bmw, and after 4-5 years they looked good as new. Even the dust from brakes doesn't have any effect on them.

 

[TNTitan]

Thanks for the advice guys. I got a quote tonight to refinish all 4 wheels for $350. I guess that's my next move - then I will wax them, avoid the wheel option at the auto wash and hope for the best.

Thank again.

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