Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive
(Hard Chrome Plating)

by Randy Taylor, Advanced Tooling Corporation.
July, 2006

Chrome plated aluminum wheels

Q. Are there any negatives that come with aluminum automobile wheels that are chrome plated? Can they withstand the elements as opposed to steel wheels that are also chrome plated?

A. No significant "negatives" other than the fact that aluminum is tougher to electroplate than steel and equally as tough to withstand corrosion over the long haul. Chrome plated steel wheels have historically outperformed aluminum or magnesium wheels, but most brand name custom wheels as well as factory chromed wheels are much better made today than in the past.

Chrome wheel life expectancy really depends on how much work one is willing to do to clean & maintain the wheels. Regional climate has a great deal to do with it as well and the proximity to salt water. In any case, seek out the best warranty, and prepare to clean, polish and wax often. (and try to stay off gravel roads!)

 

 

 


The information contained in this site is provided for your review and convenience. It is not intended to provide legal advice with respect to any federal, state, or local regulation.
You should consult with legal counsel and appropriate authorities before interpreting any regulations or undertaking any specific course of action.

Please note that many of the regulatory discussions on STERC refer to federal regulations. In many cases, states or local governments have promulgated relevant rules and standards
that are different and/or more stringent than the federal regulations. Therefore, to assure full compliance, you should investigate and comply with all applicable federal, state and local regulations.