obxdude018

I am looking into the idea of how to fix my wheels, 3 out 4 are like this some not as bad. Someone on another forum said they had similar problems and remedy it by incrementing sandpaper treatments. However I am worried about damaging the finish via that way. Anyone else have a recommendation outside refinishing.

2005Redfire6

Damn how old are those wheels and why do they look like that?!

obxdude018

Its mostly relegated to the back 2, if I had to guess it might be sand abrasion. However thats hard for me grasp on how it would happen. Ive had them for 3 years maybe, it seems to be more superficial but I would be nervous to start sanding it. The black portion is in perfect shape however minus the brake dust.

akdoggie

You can't hurt the finish, as it doesn't look good as it is. I'd definitely get some 1200 grit and wet sand those outer sections back to their luster. Then get a good clear and put it on. I just don't see how you'd hurt them when they look like they are covered with chicken feathers as they are. I wish you luck.

jpplaw

Looks like the clearcoat is oxidizing. Try some 800 wet then 1200 wet. Then clean them real good and shoot them with some new rattlecan clear. Do not get too nervous if the clear goes milky on you (it will attract humidity out of the air) - just take a hair dryer or heat gun and heat them up until it goes clear again.

Stangette

what kind of tire cleaner do you use? I had that happen on my 02 and was told it was caused by the tire cleaner. "aluminum wheels are painted or clear-coated to help prevent corrosion. Use of harsh chemicals or abrasives will remove the coating allowing for oxidation to occur. Also, remember that exposure to dirt, gravel, cinder and road salts will eventually take their toll on even the best coated wheel". I use meguires now but am planning on getting the Zaino kit with their tire and rim cleaner.