How to Refinish Corroded Alloy Wheels

Alloy wheels are constructed from a combination of aluminum and other types of metal. This produces a strong and lightweight wheel. However, when driving in areas with winter climates, alloy wheels may begin to show signs of corrosion. Corrosion is caused by the salt and dirt that accumulates on the alloy wheels, which can begin to discolor the metal alloy over time.

Things You'll Need

  • Wash mitten
  • Cloth or rag
  • Paint stripper
  • Metal brush
  • 240-grit sandpaper
  • Fill putty
  • 400-grit sandpaper
  • Filler primer
  • Silver lacquer
  • Clear lacquer
  • Wash the wheels with soap and water using a cloth or wash mitten. Wipe each wheel with the cloth or wash mitten to remove dirt and grime.

  • Apply paint stripper to a cloth or rag. Wipe each wheel to remove any clear coating that is on the alloy wheels. The clear coat gives alloy wheels their shine.

  • Remove any flaking rust or corrosion, from each wheel, with the metal brush. Sand rusted and corroded areas on each wheel with 240 grit sandpaper.

  • Apply fill putty to areas on the wheels that are uneven. Sand the putty smooth after it has dried with the 400-grit sandpaper.

  • Apply the filler primer to the entire wheel and the wipe away any excess primer using a clean cloth or rag. Allow at least 4 hours for the primer to dry and then go over it once with the 400-grit sandpaper.

  • Apply a base coat of silver colored lacquer to the wheel. This will prevent any future corrosion on the wheels. Allow the lacquer to sit and dry overnight.

  • Apply one to two coats of clear lacquer to refinish each wheel.