A protective clearcoat and/or base color coats the surface of the original equipment cast aluminum wheels. Surface degradation may develop if uncoated weights are used. Frequent, repeated automatic car wash cleaning from facilities using aggressive silicon carbide tipped tire brushes for cleaning whitewalls and tires may also damage the finish. Once the protective clearcoat is damaged, exposure to caustic cleaners and/or road salt causes further surface degradation.

The refinishing of aluminum wheels requires that the wheel surface be plastic media blasted in order to remove old clearcoat or paint. The re-machining or the use of chemical strippers is not recommended due to concerns of repair durability. The service procedure details how to strip, clean and recoat aluminum wheel rims that are affected by the above condition.

Caution: To avoid serious personal injury when applying any two part component paint system, follow the specific precautions provided by the paint manufacturer. Failure to follow these precautions may cause lung irritation and allergic respiratory reaction.

1. Remove the tire and wheel from the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Removal .
2. Dismount the tire from the wheel. Refer to Tire Mounting and Dismounting .
3. Remove the valve stem from the wheel.
4. Remove the balance weights.
5. Use a suitable remover to wipe the following from the wheel.

•	Wipe the excess grease from the wheel.

•	Wipe the excess wax from the wheel.

•	Wipe the excess dirt from the wheel.

Important: Do not use chemical strippers. Do not remachine the aluminum wheels.

6. Plastic media blast the wheels in order to remove old paint or clearcoat.
7. Mask off the wheels mounting surface and lug nut contact surfaces. These arears must remain free of paint/clearcoat.
8. Light sanding of the wheel, while manually spinning it, may also be done to restore the circular machined appearance.
9. Refer to and follow the individual painting formula and process provided by the manufacturer of each specific paint system.
10. Unmask the wheel.
11. Install a new valve stem.
12. Clean all wheel mounting surfaces of any corrosion, overspray or dirt.
13. Install the tire to the wheel. Refer to Tire Mounting and Dismounting
14. Rebalance the tire and wheel new coated wheel weights.
15. Install the tire and wheel to the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Installation .