Alloy Wheels Corrosion: Signs, Causes, and How to Stop It

When alloy wheels corrosion, the gradual breakdown of metal on car wheels due to exposure to moisture, salt, and road chemicals. Also known as wheel tarnish, it starts as dull spots and turns into flaking, pitting, or even structural damage if ignored. This isn’t just a cosmetic problem—it weakens the wheel’s structure, can cause air leaks, and in bad cases, leads to wheel failure while driving.

Corrosion happens because alloy wheels mix aluminum with other metals like magnesium. These metals react with road salt, brake dust, and water, especially in winter or near coastal areas. Brake dust is a silent killer—it’s abrasive and acidic, and when it sticks to the wheel surface, it eats away at the clear coat. Once that protective layer is gone, moisture gets in and starts the corrosion process. You’ll often see it first around the lug nut holes, the inner barrel, or along the edge where the tire meets the rim. If you notice white or gray powdery residue, small bubbles under the finish, or flaking paint, you’re already dealing with wheel corrosion, the visible result of metal degradation on vehicle wheels. It’s not just about looks; a corroded wheel can’t hold pressure properly and may need replacing far sooner than expected.

Fixing it early saves money. A light case can be cleaned with a dedicated alloy wheel cleaner and a soft brush—no wire brushes, they scratch. For deeper damage, professional refinishing is often cheaper than buying new wheels. But prevention is better: wash your wheels weekly in winter, rinse off salt right after driving on treated roads, and use a sealant or ceramic coating every 6 months. Avoid harsh car washes that use acid-based cleaners. And don’t forget—wheel maintenance, regular cleaning and protection practices to preserve wheel integrity. isn’t optional. It’s the difference between keeping your wheels looking new for years and needing to replace them after just two seasons.

What you’ll find below are real-world guides from UK drivers and mechanics who’ve dealt with this exact problem. From how to clean corroded wheels without damaging them, to which products actually work, to when it’s time to walk away from a damaged wheel—every post here gives you the facts, not the fluff. No theory. No guesswork. Just what works on the road.