Dealing with Corrosion on Rims: Everything You NEED to Know.

Dealing with corrosion on rims is an annoying problem many car owners encounter at some point. It doesn’t just ruin your car’s appearance – it can also weaken the rims, leading to potential safety concerns.

The good news? With the right tools, techniques, and a little patience, you can restore your rims and make them look like they are brand new! Addressing corrosion as soon as you notice it helps you avoid further damage, like pitting, flaking, or even costly structural issues down the line.

I’m here to guide you through a detailed, step-by-step restoration process. By the time you finish, you’ll know exactly how to deal with corrosion without breaking a sweat.

Now, before we jump into restoring rims, let’s take a closer look at what corrosion is and why it happens.

Understanding Corrosion: Types and Causes.

Corrosion isn’t created equal.

It comes in different forms, each with its own causes and effects. The main types to know are surface, pitting, and galvanic corrosion, and understanding them can help you take the right steps to protect your rims.

Surface Corrosion:

This is the most familiar type of corrosion. You’ll notice it as rust forming on the outer surface of your rims.

Why does it happen?

Surface corrosion usually starts when the protective layer on your rims, such as paint or a clear coat, gets scratched, chipped, or simply wears off over time. Without that barrier, the metal is exposed to air and moisture. This triggers a chemical reaction that leads to rust.

It often begins as small spots or discoloration. If left unchecked, it can spread and worsen, eventually covering large areas of the rim. This type of corrosion might not seem serious at first, but if ignored, it can still weaken the rim’s structure over time.

Pitting Corrosion:

Pitting corrosion is more aggressive and damaging than surface rust. It forms tiny but deep holes in the metal, which can compromise the integrity of your rims.

Why does it happen?

Pitting occurs when corrosive substances, like road salt or acidic grime, penetrate the rim’s surface through damage or wear. Unlike surface corrosion, pitting is highly localized but far more destructive because it eats deeper into the metal.

This type of corrosion thrives in areas with heavy winter road treatment or coastal regions where salt is prevalent. Once those pits form, repairing them becomes a challenge, often requiring professional restoration.

Galvanic Corrosion: When Metals Clash.

This type of corrosion results from a chemical reaction between two different metals in the presence of an electrolyte, such as salty water.

Why does it happen?

Galvanic corrosion happens when two dissimilar metals – like aluminum rims and steel bolts – come into contact. Add salty water to the mix, and the reaction accelerates. The electrical difference between the metals causes one to corrode faster than the other.

This type of corrosion is especially sneaky because it can occur in areas you might not see, like where the rim connects to the bolts. Over time, it can lead to significant structural issues if not addressed.

Understanding why corrosion happens makes dealing with it less of a mystery. That’s why it is important to know what you are dealing with exactly.

What Makes Corrosion Worse?

Environmental factors play a huge role in speeding up corrosion. Rain, snow, salty roads, and even salty sea air all contribute to the problem.

Water’s Role in Corrosion:

Water is a key ingredient in rust formation.

When your rims are frequently exposed to rain, snow, or high humidity, any scratches or damage in the protective coating allow water to seep in. This leads to surface corrosion, which can spread if left unchecked.

Why Salty Roads Are a Problem?

Salt, as I mentioned above, acts as an electrolyte, accelerating corrosion. The combination of moisture and salt can quickly lead to surface and pitting corrosion. If you live near the coast, the salty air can also increase the risk of rust forming, even if you’re not driving on salted roads.

Everyday Wear and Tear.

And to add more oil to the flame, everyday wear and tear, plus improper storage, can also worsen the situation. Even the best rims out there aren’t immune.

Do you want to learn how to properly store your tires? Read this article!

While rust might seem like just a cosmetic issue, it goes deeper than appearances. Corrosion weakens the structure of your rims, potentially leading to dangerous failures on the road. A weakened rim can crack or warp, affecting your car’s performance, handling, and safety.

Regular inspections are the best way to catch corrosion early. A quick check can save you a lot of trouble – and money – down the line.

The good news? We are going to restore those rims to their former glory in a brief!

Assessing the Damage.

Before going forward into the restoration process, it’s really important to assess the extent of the corrosion on your rims.

If you’re reading this article, chances are you’ve already noticed some rust or discoloration on your rims. If that’s the case, you can skip ahead. But if you’re unsure whether your rims have corrosion, let’s start by understanding how to spot it.

1. Inspect Your Rims: Look for rust, pitting, or discoloration. These signs will indicate whether the damage is surface-level or if it has penetrated deeper into the metal.

2. Decide on Your Approach: Minor surface rust might only need cleaning and sanding, but deeper corrosion may require more intensive treatment, including repainting.

Identifying the extent of the damage will guide you in choosing the right restoration approach.

Preparing the Tools.

To effectively deal with the corrosion on your rims , you will need some chemicals and tools that will help you in the battle. However, while the chemicals are important, they don’t have to be expensive. In fact, the ones you’ll need are really easy to gather. You can quickly order them online and they will be at your doorstep before even knowing it.

And what is even better? You don’t have to lose time selecting and comparing. For your comfort and ease, I’m going to provide you with links, where you can check them with all their details.

Note: Not everything from the list above is a must-have. You don’t have to buy stuff you don’t need and spend money without necessity. I’ll talk more about it below.

Alright, let’s start with a list and I’m going to talk about each of them after.

Restoration Tools:

• Wheel Cleaner: For removing dirt and grime.
• Rust Converter (optional): Stabilizes deep rust areas.
• Sanding Paper/Blocks: For smoothing the surface.
• Wire Brush (optional): If you need to strip old paint.
• Primer and Paint (optional): For refinishing the rims.
• Wheel Wax: Adds a protective layer after restoration.

Safety Equipment:

• Gloves
• Goggles
• Mask

Additional Supplies:

• Microfiber Towel
• Small Brush
• Foam Applicator

Now, let’s talk in details:

– Wheel and Tire Cleaner:

You are going to need one, because your first step in the whole process will be to clean and degrease the wheel. This should be done before anything else.

And about the product, I recommend you to use the Adam’s Polishes Wheel & Tire Cleaner Combo.

It is one of the best options the market has to offer, and something I would personally recommend. It is very effective in removing brake dust and rejuvenating tires, leaving the wheels looking refreshed. And hey, it’s made in the USA!

The cleaner is safe to use on various finishes and extends the lifespan of tire dressings.

And the best part? It comes with both wheel and tire brushes, which is neat, because you’ll also need those in the process. All-in-one pack.

✅ You can check this magic liquid here!

– Rust Converter (If there are areas of deep corrosion):

If there are areas of deep corrosion, a rust converter can help convert and stabilize the rust, preventing it from spreading further.

My personal recommendation is the Seymour 16-45 Rust Converter.

It is an efficient product for treating rust on metal surfaces. It converts rust into a stable, black protective coating and can be painted over without bleeding through subsequent top coats. It works quickly and effectively, providing a hard, durable surface.

Below I will provide you with instructions on how to use it, step-by-step.

✅ You can check that Rust Converter here.

– Wheel Wax:

Applying a high-quality wheel wax will provide a protective barrier against pollutants and make cleaning easier in the future.

And for high-quality wheel wax, I strongly recommend the “‎Chemical Guys ‎WAC315 as it’s a practical choice for wheel protection.

It does a solid job keeping brake dust and grime away, plus it’s got UV protection to prevent fading.

What’s impressive is how it gives your wheels a slick, clean look.

Application is easy and is done with a foam pad and is working on different wheel materials without any problem.

Also the product is durable, making it a smart choice for anyone looking for a straightforward and effective solution for wheel protection.

✅ You can view more details of the product here.

– Sanding block:

You are going to use the sanding block for smoothing the surface of the rim.
Look for sanding blocks with a coarser grit of:

• 80 or 120 to remove the corrosion
• 220 to give a smoother finish

You can acquire them at every local hardware store, but if you are looking for a faster and easier solution, I would recommend the Boshcraft 10 Sanding Block Pack. << ✅ Check it here.

It’s literally everything you need, and the best part is that they are reusable after washing. Needless to say more.

– A Wire Brush (If the old paint must be scrapped):

If the corrosion on your rims is extensive and demands a thorough removal of the old paint, you may consider using a wire brush.

It’s important to approach this process with care, taking into account the material composition of your rims.

Choosing the right tool is essential, as improper equipment may risk damaging the rim’s surface.

For instance, a wire brush can assist in the paint removal process without causing harm when used judiciously, especially if it is made from the right material. Remember, the key is to tailor your approach to the specific needs of your rims, considering their composition and condition. Always exercise caution to preserve the integrity of the rims while achieving the desired results.

If uncertain about the compatibility of tools with your rim material, seek professional advice or consult the product manufacturer’s guidelines.

Again, there are a lot of options in every hardware store, but you can also check my recommendation here.

✅ The Ecodite 4-Pack Multi Purpose Wire Set is a great choice.

They come in different sizes, so you can access every inch of your rim. You can also use them for whatever other purposes in your home, as they are useful in multiple ways.

These wire brushes are made from different materials – two brushes made of Stainless Steel and two brushes made of Brass, which is softer and can be used if your rim is of more delicate material.

Another perk is their eco-friendly design and their comfy handles.

Before using the brushes, always test them in a small area first. Use them at your own risk.

– Masking Tape (If painting is necessary):

You need masking tape to separate the tire from the rim, so the rubber can be protected during the painting process.

✅ The 3M Scotch Masking Tape could be a great and inexpensive choice.

It is made of durable material and sticks to most surfaces without leaving residue when removed.

But you can still use whatever other masking tape you have.

– Primer and Paint (If painting is necessary):

Finding the perfect paint for your rims totally depends on your preferences and your style.

Hardware stores offer a rich selection of sprays and paints from which you can choose based on what you want your rims to look like.

And don’t forget to look for a good primer that is compatible with the material which your rims are made of. Applying a primer is essential if you want the paint to last longer, but it also serves as a protective layer from corrosion. Have that in mind.

You can find more information about the different materials and rim types here:

> Car Rim Types: The Ultimate In-Depth Guide

Preparation for Rim Restoration.

As much as I hate repeating clichés, safety comes first.

Always wear a pair of gloves, goggles, and a mask. You don’t want any harmful chemicals or debris getting into your eyes or lungs. Believe me, you are not going to like the feel of having something inside your eye, or that powder as you start sanding the corrosion inside your lungs. Work in a well-ventilated area to keep the fumes at bay.

1. Anyways, start with a good inspection.

Check your rims for the extent of the corrosion damage. This helps you decide how deep you’ll need to go with your sanding and cleaning. Take note of any deep pits or areas where the metal seems particularly compromised.

2. Next, clean off all the dirt and grime.

Wash the damaged wheel well, using the wheel cleaner to get rid of any dirt and filth. This step is important because you don’t want any dirt interfering with your restoration process. If you are using the Adam’s wheel cleaner, you can watch the video below for a full walk-through on how to use the product:

3. Finally, strip the rim of its existing paint and any remaining rust.

*Note: this step is necessary ONLY if the damage is deep and scrapping the paint is a must.

Using a chemical paint stripper can help loosen up the old paint, making it easier to remove. A wire brush or power sander can effectively take care of stubborn rust spots. Your goal is to get down to bare metal, ensuring a smooth surface for the next steps.

Step-by-Step Restoration Process.

Now that you’ve prepped your rims, it’s time to start the actual restoration process. The following steps will guide you in bringing those rims back to life.

1. Start with sanding.

You’ll need various grades of sandpaper, starting with a 80 or 120 to remove the rust and moving to a finer grit of 220 for a smooth finish. Sand in a circular motion for even results. Keep at it until you’ve got a clean, smooth surface. Clean using a clean cloth or rag to remove any dust particles.

You’ll have to make sure all rust is gone, because if you leave any, it will start spreading again. You can even apply the rust converter over the cleared area, but make sure you have your paint ready, as it will make the area black.

Now, if the corrosion is deep, or if painting is necessary, you can continue with the following steps. If not, you can skip to the waxing part.

2. Treating Deep Corrosion.

If you encounter areas of severe corrosion that cannot be fully removed by sanding, you should apply a rust converter.

• Start by removing the old paint from the affected area, as the corrosion is severe. Use the wire brush for this, but first, test the brush on a small spot to make sure it won’t damage your rim.
  Use gentle pressure and work carefully, focusing on removing the paint without scratching the metal. Scrape away until you reach bare metal. Don’t worry, we’ll repaint it later in the process.

• Now, using the sanding blocks, smoothen the area where the paint was scrapped, as we are going to need a smooth surface. At the end, wipe with a cloth.

• Put on some gloves and a mask, shake the rust converter can for a few seconds, then firmly spray over the surface where you have removed the rust, then leave it to dry. The rust converter makes the area black.

3. Applying The Primer.

Once the anti-corrosion treatment is set, it’s time to prime the rim.

Use a high-quality primer of your choice, designed for metal surfaces. This creates a protective layer and helps paint adhere better. Apply the primer in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry according to the primer instructions before applying the next one.

4. Painting.

Now for the fun part – painting!

Choose a durable, weather-resistant paint, preferably something designed for rims. Apply the paint in thin, even layers to avoid drips and ensure full coverage. Let each layer dry completely before applying another. This might take a few coats, but patience is important here.

Now, if you wish to avoid painting on the tire, cover the border of the tire using the tape. It will save you a lot of headaches.

5. Waxing.

Once the paint is fully dry, finish with the wax.

This adds an extra layer of protection against future corrosion and gives your rims a nice glossy finish.

Apply it evenly using a foam pad, allowing ample drying time between coats. Just like you did with the primer. After this, you can reassemble the rims and give them a final inspection to ensure everything looks and feels solid.

Maintenance and Prevention Tips.

Regular maintenance is important to keeping your rims looking fresh and free from future corrosion. A little bit of effort goes a long way in prolonging the life of your rims.

• First, give your rims a good wash on a regular basis. Use a soft-bristled brush and the Adam’s wheel cleaner to get rid of dirt and grime. You can refer to the video above for detailed instructions.

• After washing, make sure to dry the rims completely. Moisture is the enemy, and leaving them wet can trigger new corrosion. A microfiber cloth works great for this job.

• Applying a layer of wax every few months can add an extra line of defense against corrosion. The sealant acts like an invisible shield, keeping moisture and contaminants at bay.

• Store your rims properly. If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider removing and storing the rims your are not using indoors during the off-season. At the very least, give them a good clean and apply a protective cover.

• Inspect your rims periodically for signs of wear and tear, even if they look fine at first glance. Early detection can save you from bigger problems down the road.

I have some more material for you that will help you a lot with prolonging the life of your rims and tires!

• Car Tire Maintenance Tips – Treat to be Treated.
• How to Store Tires Properly: A Practical Guide for Preservation.
• Best Tire Cleaning Products: Adam’s Graphene Tire Dressing.

To Wrap it Up:

Dealing with corrosion on rims doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these steps, you can restore your rims to their former glory and keep them in top shape. Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding future headaches, so don’t skimp on it.

Got questions? Drop a comment below or reach out to me directly at info@kaiserwheels.com. I’m always here to help!

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