Why Do Car Wheel Hubs Rust?
2 Answers
When a car is exposed to humid environments for extended periods, or if the wheel hub surface suffers scratches and other damages, or when cleaning agents containing acids or alkalis are used, the wheel hub may corrode and rust. Here are some relevant explanations: 1. Rust spots: If the rust is not severe, you can first use very fine water sandpaper dipped in water to gently sand away the rust spots, then thoroughly clean the area and apply a layer of primer. This can ensure the rust does not spread or worsen. For new scratches, you can clean the area and directly apply primer. Most vehicles come with a small can of original paint. Although this treatment may not look great, it is acceptable for very small areas. 2. Wheel hub repair: If there are scratches on the wheel hub surface but no rust has appeared yet, it is advisable to perform wheel hub repair. This prevents the wheel hub from rusting and corroding when exposed to cleaning agents.
I often drive to and from work, and encountering rusty wheel hubs is actually quite common, especially for someone like me who drives an ordinary family car. It's mostly caused by excessive humidity or road salt, with steel wheels being the most susceptible. I remember one rainy day when I left my car parked outside without a cover, and a few days later, I noticed rust spots on the rims. Infrequent cleaning can worsen the problem—brake dust and dirt accumulate there, and when combined with rainwater or melted snow containing salt, it accelerates oxidation. Aluminum alloy wheels rust less but can still corrode, especially if the surface gets scratched, allowing moisture to seep in. I usually wash my car once a week, paying special attention to the wheel hubs, using a soft brush and mild cleaner. If the rust isn’t too severe, you can handle it yourself by lightly sanding off the rust with sandpaper and then spraying on a layer of anti-rust paint. Leaving it untreated for too long not only looks bad but could also affect the wheel's strength and even its balance, increasing driving risks. Simple prevention comes down to regular maintenance and parking in dry places, which can save a lot of trouble.
