Carmelized brake dust???

[Lakesands]

Our MSC's white wheels, or at least 2 of them, have a serious stain problem that looks like a fluid stain, but is not greasy and will not come off with any normal cleaning product we have tried. The dealer says "oh yeah, that's just carmelized brake dust and you can get it off with an acidic cleaner from the auto parts" No recommendation as to what the cleaner is though. Anybody have this problem and know a solution. I am close to asking them to replace the wheels.

[GBMINI]

I think one of my wheels has the same issue - only occurred recently ...

I don't have answers but will be interested in any that you have.

[MGCMAN]

I've found that Automotive Strength Simple Green when used at full concentration on cold wheels (not after recent driving when brake components are still hot, and heating the wheels) does a very good job of removing the "coffee stains" on my white s-lites. Give it a try.

[Lakesands]

Thanks MGCMAN, will give it a try.

[BradB]

Be really careful when removing stains and don't use the dealers advice of using an acid cleaner to remove the stain. That's a quick way to ruin your wheels.

Remember, wheels should be treated like any painted surface. You can also use a compound to remove troublesome stains and water spots as well.

And be sure to wax your wheels (inside and out) with a heat resistant, durable sealant. A polymer like Zaino or an acrylic like Klasse will work great. This will not only help protect your wheels but the dirt and brake dust won't stick as easily.

[Lakesands]

Success - Used the Simple Green Auto version and a new wheel brush and once again have nice white wheels. Thanks for the tip. :smile: :smile: