Wheel Stains Options? (2006 Mercedes Sl500)

[markvwal]

I did a thorough inspection of this car before I bought it, including an inspection from a certified MB repair shop. Everything tested out great. I saw some drip marks on all four wheels that I wrongly assumed was the run off from the over-application of wheel gel. No problem, I'll just wash it off and shine them up. Unfortunately, it was not something that washed off. I can't even scrape it off. I am pretty sure it is etched into the wheel, like the previous owner used an acid or something????

Do any of you have any ideas? I assume I am S.O.L. And if it can't be fixed, can one of the wheel repair vans fix something like this? Or is it time to look for new wheels?

Thank you for your input.

[FUNX650]

I am pretty sure it is etched into the wheel...

I assume I am S.O.L.
can one of the wheel repair vans fix
something like this? Or is it time to
look for new wheels?

I agree with both your ‘etched into’;
and ‘S.O.L.’ assessments.

Quite often the guys operating out of
the wheel repair vans can successfully
refurbish the wheels.

Myself? I’d get them powdercoated.


Bob

[supercharged75]

Have you tried polishing them to minimize how noticeable it is?

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[Coatingsarecrack]

Yeah if your gonna keep for while the van guys can do some decent air brushing.

Im a big fan of changing wheels and tires.... biggest change to make it different... if not your thing or budget then I’d go with Bobs recommendation if you can be with out car for a week.... powdercoat


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[markvwal]

Thanks guys! I looked into powder coating services here in our area, and discovered a few options. Didn't expect that to be so easy!

[FUNX650]

Thanks guys!
I looked into powder coating services here
in our area, and discovered a few options.
Didn't expect that to be so easy!

Bob

[Coatingsarecrack]

Picks when done. I vote fire engine red!. All seriousness gun metal looks great


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[markvwal]

Oh boy, now I have to pick a color?! Car is dark dark dark blue with tan interior. I like the current gun metal color, but would something else look better? Black maybe, or is this too trendy? I have seen a few of the new corvettes with dark blue that are "blacked out" and they look pretty sharp. Hmmmm..... I'll have to run recon on google pics.

[DMiglio]

I’m generally a fan of OEM finishes for OEM wheels. Don’t care too much for blacked out especially on a darker colored vehicle as it limits the contrast between the two. I personally would go for the OEM gunmetal color or for added contrast a bright silver which may give a bit of an OEM+ feel.

The thing that matters most is doing what you want, it’s your vehicle and you’ll be looking at it daily! Whatever you choose, post pics if possible would be nice to see.

[Bobby B.]

I would try polishing the wheels first. If the stains don't come out I would look into having the wheels powder coated. Bright Silver Metallic wheels look awesome on dark Blue vehicles.

Good luck!