What Causes White Oxidation Spots on Wheel Hubs?
2 Answers
The causes of white oxidation spots on wheel hubs are: 1. The wheel hub surface is scratched by hard objects, allowing air to directly contact the aluminum of the wheel hub, leading to oxidation at the damaged area; 2. Application of low-quality tire oil; 3. Residual cleaning agents left on the wheel hub that are not thoroughly cleaned, which over time cause oxidation and white spots on the wheel hub surface. The wheel hub is the central part of the wheel, fitting together with the tire assembly, mounted on the axle to support the tire, typically cylindrical in shape, and usually equipped with bearings to reduce friction. Wheel hubs can be categorized into two main types by material: steel wheel hubs and alloy wheel hubs. By surface treatment process, they can be divided into painted and electroplated types.
I recently noticed small white spots on my alloy wheels and found out they were oxidation spots, which can have several causes. In cities, salt is spread in winter for anti-slip purposes, and these salt residues can cling to the wheels. Combined with rainwater or car wash water, moisture seeps in, and when aluminum alloy wheels come into contact with corrosive substances, white spots easily form. Brake dust, which contains iron particles, can also accumulate and oxidize over time, worsening the problem. Another factor was my use of strong cleaning agents, which ended up corroding the protective layer. Now, I’ve developed a habit: every time I wash my car, I first rinse the wheels with clean water to remove dust, scrub them with a neutral detergent, and then apply a specialized wax for protection. If ignored, these white spots can spread, making the wheel surface rough, affecting aesthetics, and even compromising balance and longevity. So, regular maintenance is key to preventing oxidation—don’t wait until it’s a bigger issue to take action.
