Corvette V8-6.2L (2008)
hot particles embed themselves in the chrome layer and create a small pit. If the material is allowed to sit on the wheel while it is exposed to moisture or
salt, it will corrode the wheel beneath the chrome leaving a pit or small blister in the chrome.
Heavy brake dust build-up should be removed from wheels by using GM Chrome Cleaner and Polish, P/N 1050173 (in Canada use 10953013). For
moderate cleaning, light brake dust build-up or water spots use GM Swirl Remover Polish, P/N 12377965 (in Canada, use Meguiars Plast-X(TM) Clear
Plastic Cleaner and Polish #G12310C**). After cleaning, the wheel should be waxed using GM Cleaner Wax, P/N 12377966 (in Canada, use Meguiars
Cleaner Wax #M0616C**), which will help protect the wheel from brake dust and reduce adhesion of any brake dust that gets on the wheel surface. For
general maintenance cleaning, PEEK Metal Polish† may be used. It will clean and shine the chrome and leave behind a wax coating that may
help protect the finish.
Warranty of Stardust Corroded Chrome Wheels
Wheels returned with pitting or spotting as a result of neglect and brake dust build-up may be replaced one time.
Important
Notify the customer that this is a one time replacement. Please stress to the customer the vital importance of keeping the wheels clean and free
of prolonged exposure to brake dust build-up. "GM of Canada" dealers require prior approval by the District Manager - Customer Care and
Service Process (DM-CCSP).
Customer Assistance and Instructions
GM has looked for ways customers may improve the appearance of wheels damaged by acidic cleaners. The following product and procedure has been
found to dramatically improve the appearance of stained wheels. For wheels that have milky stains caused by acidic cleaners try the following:
Notice
THE 3M CHROME AND METAL POLISH REQUIRED FOR THIS PROCEDURE IS AN EXTREMELY AGGRESSIVE POLISH/CLEANER. THE
WHEELS MUST BE CLEANED BEFORE APPLICATION TO AVOID SCRATCHING THE WHEEL SURFACE. THIS PRODUCT WILL
REDUCE THE THICKNESS OF THE CHROME PLATING ON THE WHEEL AND IF USED INCORRECTLY OR EXCESSIVELY MAY
REMOVE THE CHROME PLATING ALL TOGETHER, EXPOSING A LESS BRIGHT AND BRASSY COLORED SUB-LAYER. FOLLOW
INSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY.
1. Wash the wheels with vigorously with soap and water. This step will clean and may reduce wheel staining. Flood all areas of the wheel with water
to rinse.
2. Dry the wheels completely.
Notice
Begin with a small section of the wheel and with light pressure buff off polish and examine results. ONLY apply and rub with sufficient force and
time to remove enough staining that you are satisfied with the results. Some wheels may be stained to the extent that you may only achieve a 50%
improvement while others may be able to be restored to the original lustre. IN ALL CASES, only apply until the results are satisfactory.
3. Apply 3M Chrome and Metal Polish #39527* with a clean terry cloth towel. As you apply the polish, the staining will be diminished.
4. When dry, buff off the polish with a clean portion of the towel.
5. Repeat application of the 3M Chrome and Metal Polish until satisfied with the results. If continued applications fail to improve the appearance
further discontinue use.
This procedure will improve the appearance of the wheels and may, with repeated applications, restore the finish dramatically. For wheels that exhibit
spotting from road chemicals the above procedure may marginally improve the condition but will not restore the finish or remove the pitting. In this type
of staining the wheel finish has actually been removed in spots and no manner of cleaning will restore the finish.
†*We believe this source and their products to be reliable. There may be additional manufacturers of such products/materials. General Motors
does not endorse, indicate any preference for or assume any responsibility for the products or material from this firm or for any such items that may be
available from other sources.
Parts Information
