Rseries Chrome & Polished Wheel Care Statement
Rseries wheels featuring chrome or polished finishes require regular and appropriate maintenance to preserve their intended appearance and surface integrity. These finishes are decorative by nature and are more sensitive to environmental exposure and chemical interaction than fully painted or heavily coated alternatives. Cosmetic deterioration resulting from improper care or unsuitable cleaning practices is not considered a manufacturing defect and may result in warranty exclusion.
During normal vehicle use, wheel surfaces are exposed to road grime, brake dust, road salts, de-icing chemicals and other environmental contaminants. These substances may retain moisture against the surface and accelerate corrosion. Brake dust is inherently corrosive and, if not removed periodically, may cause surface pitting or permanent cosmetic damage.
Approved Care Method
For chrome and polished finishes, Rseries recommends gentle, non-chemical maintenance methods as the preferred approach. Routine cleaning should be performed by hand, using clean water to remove surface contaminants. Where additional cleaning is required, a mild, pH-neutral car wash solution, diluted with water, may be used. Cleaning should be carried out using a soft, non-abrasive microfibre or plush cloth, followed by immediate drying with a clean, soft cloth to minimise water spotting.
Wheels must only be cleaned once they have cooled naturally to ambient temperature. Cleaning wheels while hot, or attempting to cool hot wheels with water, may damage the finish through thermal shock and may place unnecessary stress on braking components.
Chemical Exposure
Chrome and polished finishes are particularly sensitive to chemical exposure. Acidic, alkaline or solvent-based cleaning agents — including many commercially available wheel cleaners, household detergents and chemical car wash solutions — may react with the surface and cause staining, discolouration, etching or oxidation. For this reason, the use of chemical-based wheel cleaners on chrome or polished finishes is not recommended.
Polished Aluminium Characteristics
Polished aluminium finishes that are not protected by a clear coat are subject to natural oxidation and gradual loss of lustre over time. This is an inherent characteristic of the finishing process rather than a manufacturing defect. Where required, appearance may be managed using polishing and sealing products specifically formulated for uncoated polished aluminium. Cosmetic changes associated with oxidation or ageing of polished aluminium finishes are not covered under warranty.
Cleaning Methods Not Recommended
Automatic spray, brush or touch-free car wash systems are not recommended for chrome or polished wheel finishes. These systems often rely on aggressive chemical agents, high-pressure application or mechanical contact and may fail to adequately remove corrosive contaminants, increasing the risk of finish deterioration.
In regions where road salts or seasonal chemical treatments are commonly used, more frequent cleaning using the approved methods outlined above may be required to limit prolonged chemical exposure.
Responsibility & Warranty Exclusion
Responsibility for the care and preservation of chrome and polished wheel finishes rests with the vehicle owner following delivery and installation. Any surface discolouration, corrosion, staining, oxidation or cosmetic deterioration resulting from chemical exposure, environmental conditions, improper maintenance or unsuitable cleaning methods is excluded from warranty coverage.