Wheel Oxidation
What Causes Clear Coat Oxidation?
Wheel Oxidation and Paint Oxidation is caused by debris, dirt, minerals, salts, moisture and brake dust that collects on your alloy wheels can really make wheels look awful. Depending where you live can also cause oxidation. Areas with snow tend to have salt on the roads which will cause rust on vehicles and oxidation on clear coat. Areas near oceans can also cause oxidation and rust because of the moisture in the air.
Chrome Plated Wheels:
Alloy wheel oxidation is caused by a chemical reaction between air and water that causes the alloy wheel to pit. ... Chrome wheels may develop oxidation where the tire meets the rim, on the inside part of the wheel. This causes the chrome plating to lift, and if left untreated will cause the tire to lose air
Brake Dust Corrosion
Disc brake dust is a big problem for millions of car owners. The beginning stages of brake dust corrosion can actually burn small marks into alloy wheels if not removed on a weekly basis. Overtime a combination of moisture, grime, and brake dust can lead to severe pitting of alloy wheels. Once your wheels get to the point of severe pitting, the only option is to have your damaged alloy wheels professionally refinished.
Wheel Oxidation
Alloy wheel oxidation is caused by a chemical reaction between air and water that causes the alloy wheel to pit. The problem with oxidation starts when the factory clear coat is compromised, usually due to curb damage or outer wheel weights. If left unresolved your wheel will develop noticeable oxidation in a matter of weeks. At the point of compromise, your wheel will develop a gray and white spider look, especially on machined finish alloy wheels.
Helpful Solutions
Before using any cleaning products on your wheels, be sure they do not contain ammonia or acid based solutions. Wash your alloy wheels with a quality cleaner and wax similar to what you would use on the body of your vehicle. For better protection after drying your wheels, apply wheel wax which will cut down on brake dust corrosion in between washes. Wheel wax will not harm or dull the finish of your wheels.
