Chrome plated rims continue to increase in popularity because of their flawless, bright and reflective finish. When new, they look beautiful and add glamor to any vehicle. But when damaged, the pitted and peeling chrome is an eye sore!

Unfortunately, because chrome rims are plated rather than painted, they cannot be refinished as easily as standard rims.

Chrome is applied via a plating process over the aluminum alloy wheel. By itself, chrome will not adhere to aluminum. And, because dissimilar metals corrode when touching, it was discovered that by using zinc and copper plate between the chrome and the aluminum, the chrome will adhere to the aluminum and not corrode.

Why, then are your chrome rims deteriorating?

While driving, especially at high speeds, gravel is kicked up from the road and hits the wheels. This causes very small abrasions in the chrome surface and occurs inside the “barrel” of the rim as well as the face.

“Curb damage” will also break the “chrome seal”.

In addition, the movement of the tire on the rim deteriorates the bead of the rim over time.

Once this process begins, you will notice distinct deterioration of the finish. This is aggravated further by the salt used on roads which becomes trapped under the plate. Without washing, the salt will eat into the alloy rim itself. Read the rest of this entry »