Q: I spray painted my chrome wheels flat black a while back and now I want the paint off! Help?

asked by on November 24, 2016

I spray painted my car chrome wheels a flat black a while back and now I would really like the chrome back. It's November so the temperature outside is roughly about 40°F ...any suggestions? I started using carb cleaner but there's got to be a better way!! :'(

Hi there. The best stuff to use to remove paint off chrome is Rust-Oleum Aircraft Remover (a paint remover for aircraft vehicles). The remover is very powerful, so you will want to cover the paint on your vehicle with cardboard and tape to keep the remover from touching it. Then, rub the remover all over the rims and let it sit for a little bit to work on the paint. If your paint is really thick, then let the remover sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then you can use a rag or pressure washer to remove the paint and remover from the rims. Re-apply the remover if there is still some paint on the rims until all of the paint is off. Then, put mothers polish on the chrome and before you wipe it off, fluff flour (for baking) all over the rims. This will remove the wet spots and make your rims shine like brand new (even better than new).

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

AC compressor clicking
Hi, it is possible that the compressor needs replacing, however, it can make a clicking noise if the system is low on refrigerant. You should never have to add refrigerant to the A/C system, so it sounds like there is...
Would the crankshaft be the issue for the car losing power or misfiring gears?
Hi! It sounds like there are a number of things that could be going on with your Mountaineer. If you feel like it's in neutral when you're in drive, that is a transmission issue. You can start by checking the...
steering failure.
If the inner tie rod were to break or come loose, there is a chance steering the vehicle would become very difficult. Hire a technician to inspect the previous work done as well as check for new damage that may...
My automatic shifter will vibrate hard when I'm going over 80 and my car also would shake a bit
Hi there. Not sure what roads you can travel over 80mph but several things may cause this issue. One possibility is having broken or sagging transmission/engine mounts (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-mount-replacement). Another possibility is a driveline vibration caused by worn CV joints (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/axle-cv-shaft-assembly-replacement)...
On a good day car starts very easily in the morning or if rested for about 30 mins. However, it does not start when warm
Hey there. This is a common sign of a faulty ignition coil (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-coil-replacement). Ignition coils are coated with a varnish-like insulation that becomes brittle over time after being stretched then contracted as the copper beneath them expands and contracts faster...
My car has no power, won't start, and won't take jump start - 2006 Cadillac DTS
Hello. The more issues you have like sparking and excessive heat while trying to charge the battery, the more likely you are to damage it. Since it is brand new, do not attempt to jump start it again until you...
While I am driving my car makes a loud knocking sound. I t may be coming from the engine I'm not quite sure.
The noise will be identifiable, and the origin pinpointed, if you request a vehicle noise diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-making-a-noise-inspection). Ticking noises are usually due to valve train problems and, in turn those problems can be caused by low oil pressure. Knocking, if...
My car shows the check engine light, the computer showed code P0455, and it shakes and vibrates at stops and during acceleration.
First, remove and reinstall the gas cap, clear the code P0455 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0455-obd-ii-trouble-code-system-gross-leak-evaporative-emission-by-john-nelson), and drive the vehicle for a few days and see if the code comes back. If the code comes back on, then either the gas cap (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/gas-cap-replacement) needs...
a rattling noise from my engine when i accelerate and my engine light keeps on flickering ever since. safe to take it on a trip?
With the running description you gave you should not drive it long distance if you are getting engine noise and check engine light flashing. The problem may be low oil pressure or another issue with a sensor. Have the vehicle...

Related articles

What Is Front-Wheel Drive?
If a vehicle is of the front-wheel drive variety, then all of the power made by the engine gets to the ground via the two front wheels. This arrangement is extremely popular in modern vehicles for a number...
How to Paint a Car Yourself
Paint your car yourself to keep your paint job in great condition and to protect your car from the elements.
How to Apply a Clear Base Coat to a Car
Much Much of a vehicle's appeal has nothing to do with its performance and is purely superficial. Although a car's speed and agility on the road is important, it means very little in terms of the total package if it...