Rusting Factory Alloy Rims.

Rusting Factory Alloy Rims.

My original alloy rims are rusting from the edges. I am seeing bugles of rust. This started over a year ago. I have a 2003 Corolla S and when I bought it was first generation in Canada.

Any one has the same problem?

Normal driving conditions and weather shouldn't rust alloy wheels. Are you driving on iced roads a lot where lots of road salt is used to melt the ice? That would explain the premature rust on fairly new alloy wheels. I would use some compound to remove the existing rust such as CLR and then wash the wheels down with mild soap and water. Seal the finish with a couple coats of wax to prevent contact with the road salt.

Thank you very much for your comments.

I think I forgot to mention I live in the snow. It is the salt that has damaged my rims. Normal driving here is lots of salt on the road in the winter. We get enough snow and salt here in Toronto. But I just put down a 1990 Honda Accord with alloy wheels. I drove those rims under the same conditions and the rims had no rust.

The other thing that is peculiar is that I have only seen this problem with 2003 make. It almost seems as if they change something on post year’s manufacture. I have had a number of issues of first generation nature. This vehicle was made here in Ontario starting 2003.

Another thing is that I purchased a set of steel rims a couple of winters ago. So now I do not even use those anymore in the winter. But I am afraid the damage is done.

I am happy over all with my vehicle but I wish I had nice looking rims.