Is It Normal for the Steel Rim Inside New Car Tires to Rust?
3 Answers
It is normal for the steel rim inside new car tires to oxidize and rust. Simply remove the rust with sandpaper, and it generally does not affect normal usage. Below is some relevant information about wheel hubs: 1. Many drivers often overlook the presence of curbs and other low obstacles while driving, which can easily cause damage to the wheel hubs. Therefore, it is important to carefully observe road conditions and surrounding terrain to avoid hub damage due to negligence. To maintain the appearance of the wheel hubs, aside from being extra cautious to prevent accidental damage while driving, regular maintenance and care are also necessary. 2. Generally, the wheel hubs should be thoroughly cleaned once a week. Remove sand particles, brake pad residues, salt, and other contaminants that can damage the wheel hubs. Otherwise, the alloy surface may corrode and deteriorate. After cleaning, apply an acid-resistant cleaner to both the inner and outer surfaces of the wheel hubs. Additionally, it is recommended to wax the wheel hubs every two months to extend their lifespan. However, avoid using paint brighteners or other abrasive materials on the wheel hubs.
I just noticed some rust on the steel rims inside the tires of my newly bought car, which gave me a bit of a scare. I went to ask the guys at the repair shop, and they said it’s pretty common, especially for steel rims, since steel naturally oxidizes and rusts when exposed to moisture in the air. During the production and transportation of new cars, the rims might come into contact with rainwater or road salt, leading to minor rust spots. If it’s just light surface rust, it’s completely fine to drive and won’t affect safety. However, if the rust is deep or widespread, there might be concerns about the rims corroding the wheel mounts or brake system. They suggested I first clean it with a brush and baking soda, then apply some rust-proof spray to prevent further rusting. Since the car is still under warranty, it’s best to take it back to the 4S shop for a thorough inspection to rule out any major issues. Regularly rinsing the inner side of the rims during car washes can also help prevent rust. Steel rims are prone to rusting, so I’m thinking of switching to aluminum alloy ones in the future for less hassle.
I recently picked up a new car, and before the excitement faded, I noticed rust on the steel rims of the tires, which left me a bit confused. My friend, who sells cars, explained that steel rims are prone to rust, and it's not uncommon for new cars to develop rust during storage or transportation if they occasionally get wet. He assured me it's not a major issue. Light rust doesn't affect driving, as it's just surface oxidation and doesn't impact the core components. To be safe, I decided to tackle it myself—using an old toothbrush and vinegar to scrub off the rust, then spraying some automotive rust inhibitor for a quick and easy fix. The new car warranty is quite comprehensive, so I’ll just drive to the dealer to have them confirm everything and avoid future hassles. Steel rims are prone to this, so parking in dry spots helps prevent it. Switching to alloy rims is more expensive but better for rust prevention.
