washing

[developerx]

Now that I see the pic, here's what I think that is...

Water + salt + the (chrome?) on the wheel cover + aluminum wheel looks like when wet & salty, there's galvanic corrosion. It looks like the water bridges the gap when it drips down. Notice that it's localized where the chrome spoke comes close to the wheel.

Can this actually be happening?

[HaTaX]

If it wasn't a new car, I'd say it looks where some yo yo at the local tire shop mounted the wrong wheel weights....

Kinda sucks that the 16" wheels I had on my 2000 300M were of better quality than these... I could clean those wheels with a plastic brush and Bleach-White cleaner and they always came back with a mirror finish..... Sigh... Guess it's another reason to buy aftermarket wheels for summertime.

[Cdnhemi]

Originally Posted by Northern Rider

Mikeyjohn, I will be interested to hear what you find with your rims.

I did a thorough clean job on my car to-day and I have the same problem as Northern Rider, but may not be as bad as his but I notice it is on all 4 wheels.

It appears to be some type of oxidation and any amount of rubbing or chrome cleaner will not remove it.

It may be advisable that everyone, especially us unlucky ones living in snow belts to keep an eye on this problem and then post under this thread. I will be going to my dealer to see what can be done but may wait until others find the same problem. I also see that NR is going to Mexico shortly so he will be out of the loop for a while, so I may wait until he comes back. It's sure annoying!!!!

[Blankster]

Mine are pitting also along the outer rim (3 out of 4). I have only 3K miles with very limited driving on salty streets (Chicago area) . Plan to see the dealer and see what they have to say. I'm sure I will get all new wheels.

[turbomangt]

Anyone that wishes to stop my my shop to have your wheels analized, I would be glad to do so . I have some stuff not available at retail that should clean those wheels up providing they are not too far gone. I know some people that switch out winter and summer wheels for this exact reason. Gary www.perfectautofinish.com

[Cdnhemi]

Originally Posted by turbomangt

Anyone that wishes to stop my my shop to have your wheels analized, I would be glad to do so . I have some stuff not available at retail that should clean those wheels up providing they are not too far gone. I know some people that switch out winter and summer wheels for this exact reason. Gary www.perfectautofinish.com

I'd sure like to take you up on your offer, but a little out of the way, unless you take Fedex!!! Just kidding.