How to Polish Old Rust Stained Chrome Wheels

by 4DIYers in Workshop > Cars

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How to Polish Old Rust Stained Chrome Wheels

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DIY: How to Clean & Polish Chrome Wheels

Video tutorial on how to clean and polish chrome wheels. Having the tires mounted on the wheels or the wheels on or off the vehicle does not matter. If the chrome surface has rusting, this cannot be fixed with this method. Being that chrome is a plating on metal, this plated surface is damaged. With this process we can only lessen the visuals of the damage, not permanently fix it. The only way to fix this rusting or pitting is to strip the finish and have them recoated.

Tools/Supplies Needed:

  • Spray Nine Multi-Purpose Cleaner/Disinfectant
  • hose
  • bucket of water
  • soft brush
  • soft cloths
  • wheel/chrome polish (in the video I used Eagle One Original Mag & Aluminum Wheel Polish & Nevr Dull)
  • wax (in the video I used Carnauba Wax by Mothers)
  • microfiber cloth

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First start by washing the wheels removing any dirt or debris which can contaminate the surface and cause scratching. Rinse the wheels off using a hose, then spray the surface with Spray Nine. Allow the Spray Nine to soak into the surface, do not let it sit in the sun as we don't want the soap to dry out. Agitate the surface with the brush, then rinse once done. Dry the wheel off either using a cloth or compressed air.

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Here I am using both Nevr Dull to tackle the rust stains and spots, then Eagle One Wheel Polish to remove any light scruffs from the excessive polishing. Rip a small piece of Nevr Dull cotton wadding off, then work it into the surface until the stains are removed and the pitting has lessened. Wipe off residue with a clean soft cloth. Once satisfied, move onto the Eagle One Wheel Polish. Apply the polish to a soft cloth and then work into the surface. Again once satisfied, give the wheel a final wipe down to ensure no polish residue is left behind.

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Next to seal the chrome to prevent the rust worsening or the dirt from sticking, apply a wax of your choice. Apply the wax using an applicator or soft cloth, then allow the wax to setup. Remove and polish using a microfiber cloth.

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After all that hard work, you're left with something such as this.

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