How to Stop Chrome Rim Pitting
by Frank DiosoChrome rims add style to your vehicle. They are generally more attractive and lighter than steel rims. However, chrome rims are more susceptible to oxidation, which is caused by everyday exposure to the environment. Oxidation will cause pitted areas to appear on your rims and can make your wheels look dirty. You can easily remove the pitted areas of your rims and prevent future pitting from occurring.
Step 1
Wash the rims with liquid laundry or dish detergent and water to remove any dirt or grime. Let the rims dry for a few hours, or wipe them dry with a clean rag.
Step 2
Locate the pitted areas using your fingers. Sand the affected areas with 180-grit sandpaper. Use firm pressure and sand in a circular motion until all the pits and scratches disappear. Wipe the rims with a clean, lint-free rag.
Step 3
Apply high quality chrome polish to the rims. Using a high quality chrome polish will prevent future chrome pitting. Pour a generous amount of chrome polish on a clean and lint-free rag and wipe in a circular motion. Continue wiping until the rims feel smooth. Allow the chrome polish to dry for an hour.
Step 4
Shine your rims. With a buffing cloth, wipe the rims in a circular motion. Continue wiping until you can see your reflection.
References
Tips
- Apply the chrome polish at least once a month to prevent future pitting.
Things You'll Need
- Liquid laundry or dish detergent
- Water
- Rags
- 180-grit sandpaper
- Chrome polish
- Buffer cloth
Writer Bio
Frank Dioso is a trained medical technologist working for prominent research institutions such as Quest Diagnostics and California Clinical Trials. He has, for many years, ghostwritten clinical trial reports for confidential pharmaceutical drugs and is currently contributing his clinical laboratory science knowledge to online how-to articles.