How to Recondition Chrome Rims

Chrome holds its shine better than any other material used for making rims. Chrome is resilient and holds its shine in the midst of harsh conditions, but it does have a nemesis: Rust and grime. If you recondition your chrome rims without letting too much time pass, you can get them back to shining like they are brand new.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cotton cloth
• Chrome polish
• Bowl or small bucket
• Water
• Soap
• Household cleaner
• Toothbrush

Instructions

Recondition Chrome Rims

1. Wash the chrome finish. With soap and water wash the surface to remove all dirt and grime.

2. Remove surface rust with a household steel wool soap pad and a lot of water to rub the rusted areas of the chrome rim.

3. Dip a toothbrush into a bowl or small bucket filled with household cleaner. Reach inside of the cracks and hard to reach areas with the moist toothbrush and scrub the area in a circular motion.

4. Rinse the chrome surface with clean water until all of the soap suds and residue are gone. Dry the surface with a towel.

5. Polish the chrome surface with a chrome polish that can be purchased at your local automotive store and a soft cotton rag or tee shirt. Dab the the chrome surface lightly and rub the surface in small circles until it begins to shine.

Tips & Warnings

• Chrome rims that are dented or pitted all the way through cannot be restored with this method. Instead take chrome rims to have the chrome replated at a chrome plating shop in your area. Ask your local wheel and tire shop for a recommendation on a good place to have chrome surfaces replated.

References

• Chrome Rim Restoration Information