I have a 96 Firebird, and it has the 16 inch aluminum wheels. Up until recently, when I cleaned the wheels, they were bright and clean. But now, these black spots are on the wheels. I normally just use a wet rag to clean the wheels. These new black spots and areas are stubborn, and won't come off. What can I use thats safe and won't harm the metal? What kind of cleaner is good to use? I guess the black spots are brake dust, I'm not sure.

Ok, I also have an 84 Z28. It has Torque Thrust wheels. I have a similar problem with them. They don't really clean up to well...black spots remain after I hand clean them. Again, what can I use that will remove the stains, but won't hurt the metal?

Also, I have chrome exhaust tips on the Camaro. The tips are really dirty- they haven't been cleaned in years. There appears to be sporadic rust spots on some areas on the chrome tips. Can I use an SOS or Brillo pad to clean them with? I heard that somewhere once. Will that not scrub off the chrome? Thanks.

Oh yeah...STONER'S Window cleaner works very well, for any of you interested. It works much better than Windex. Its available at TARGET and I think Pep Boys as well.

 

I like Megires wheel cleaner, works real good. Check your bearing caps, may be throwing grease out.