How to Fix Speckled Chrome

Rust speckles on chrome or chrome-painted surfaces are caused by oxidation. Rust forms when the metallic surface is attacked by moisture from rain, humidity or other water sources in the surface's environment. The oxygen in the water source reacts with the metal, causing corrosion, resulting in a rust "bloom." This ferrous contamination in the form of small particles embeds itself in the metal's surface, causing it to deteriorate. Rust speckles on chrome can be removed temporarily by using some detailing methods on the rusty areas.

Things You'll Need

  • Steel wool, #0000 grade
  • Machine oil
  • Cola, 1 liter bottle
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cleaning cloth, lint-free
  • Polishing wax
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Instructions

  1. Steel Wool Method

    • 1
      Steel wool removes rust on chrome and chrome-plated metals.

      Wash any dirt off the rusted area with warm water and allow the area to dry completely.

    • 2

      Apply a few drops of light machine oil to the rusted area and abrade the area with a gentle, even pressure using back-and-forth rather than circular strokes until it feels smooth to the touch. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth and allow it to dry. For faster drying, use a hair dryer or leaf blower.

    • 3

      Dab a small amount of polishing wax on the treated chrome to protect it from moisture and buff the area using a soft, dry cloth.

    Aluminum Foil Method

    • 4
      Aluminum foil returns rust-speckled chrome to its original shine -- temporarily.

      Wash away any grime on the surface to be treated and allow to dry.

    • 5

      Crumple enough aluminum foil to form a ball. Dip it into warm water and rub it briskly on the rust specks on your chrome item. Rinse the treated area with clean, warm water. Continue rubbing the chrome surface until the rust is gone. Repeat the rinsing of the treated area and allow to dry completely.

    • 6

      Apply polishing wax or machine oil with a soft, clean cloth to the treated chrome surface to protect it from moisture and buff it dry.

    Cola and Aluminum Foil Method

    • 7
      Cola removes rust on many surfaces. .

      Dip a piece of aluminum foil in cola and rub it over the rust specks. The phosphoric acid in the cola will remove the rust.

    • 8

      Rinse the treated area with warm water. Repeat rubbing and rinsing until the rust is removed.

    • 9

      Apply a small amount of machine oil or polishing wax to the treated area to protect it from moisture. Buff dry.