Info - Streaking, Spotting and/or Staining on Painted Aluminum Wheels with Premium Pearl Nickel Finish - Use Soap and Water ONLY

Recently, GM Engineering has identified the above Buick Lucerne aluminum wheels in warranty reviews with an appearance concern. Hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid, and hydrochloric acid may cause paint discoloration on these wheels. The hydrofluoric acid is the most severe acid affecting the painted finish. The appearance concern is displayed as dark streaking, spotting and/or a stained appearance on the silver finish of the wheel. The stains are usually most pronounced on the sides of the wheel spokes and the wheel lip area; though it may also be noted on the face of the wheels, in the area of the bolt holes. These darker areas are the result of wheel cleaners that have removed the clearcoat, and some silver paint allowing the black undercoat to bleed through as dark patches. Please refer to the photograph below.

Notice: GM recommends ONLY using mild soap and water solutions on these wheels. Please instruct customers to AVOID WHEEL CLEANING SOLUTIONS ON THESE PREMIUM PAINTED WHEELS.

As the exact ratios of these acids and the brands of cleaners capable of causing discoloration is not fully known, and therefore GM recommends ONLY using mild soap and water on these wheels. Please instruct customers to AVOID WHEEL CLEANING SOLUTIONS ON THESE PREMIUM PAINTED WHEELS.

What Action to Take

GM does not endorse or approve of chemical wheel cleaners for painted aluminum wheels, however, if a customer returns a vehicle with this type of staining, you may offer a one time replacement of the affected wheels under warranty. The customer should be instructed NOT to use acidic wheel cleaning products in the future. Mild soap and water is all that should be needed to clean the wheels. Stubborn stains and large brake dust deposits may be removed by gently polishing the wheels with a non-abrasive car wax.

Notice: Please instruct customers to AVOID USING WHEEL CLEANING SOLUTIONS.