Dear Mike,
I have a question about my luxury/performance vehicle that’s been bothering me for a while. Every time I drive, the rims of my car seem to be constantly covered in black soot. It’s becoming a real nuisance and I can’t seem to figure out what’s causing it.
I’ve tried washing the rims multiple times, yet no matter what I do, the black soot keeps coming back. It’s not only unsightly but also dangerous as it hinders the grip of my tires on the road.
I purchased my car to make a statement, but this soot is tarnishing its appearance. Is there a simple solution to this problem, Mike? What am I doing wrong that’s causing this issue?
I would really appreciate some advice so that I can go back to enjoying my car’s sleek appearance.
Sincerely,
Niamh
Dear Niamh,
Thank you for reaching out to Urban Automotive! I understand your frustration at the never-ending black soot on your luxury vehicle’s rims. Let’s get to the bottom of this, shall we?
First and foremost, let me put your mind at ease. The black soot on your wheels is most likely brake dust and not a sign of any major issues with your brake system. I know, this may come as a shock, but brake dust is an inevitable by-product of brake pads and rotors coming into contact with each other.
You see, as you drive and use your brakes, these components wear down and tiny particles of metal and cast iron mix together with adhesives and other chemicals to form the dreaded brake dust. And it doesn’t matter if you have a fancy luxury car or a basic sedan – all brake systems generate brake dust, regardless of how souped-up or sleek they may be.
Now, before you start cursing out the brake manufacturers’ name, let me tell you that there is no magic formula to make brake dust disappear altogether. However, there are some things you can do to prevent it from accumulating excessively.
First, clean your rims regularly using a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft-bristled brush. This will prevent the brake dust from bonding to the metal and becoming harder to remove. Be sure to use high-quality cleaning products that won’t damage your wheels.
Also, consider upgrading your brake pads and rotors to a low-dust variety. These are available from various manufacturers and can significantly reduce brake dust accumulation on your wheels. While they may be a bit pricier than your average brake components, they’re worth every penny, especially if you’re particular about keeping your luxury car looking its best.
Lastly, if the brake dust on your wheels seems to be excessive, it may be time to take your car to a trusted mechanic to have your brakes checked. Although unlikely, there could be an issue with your brake system causing the brake pads to wear unevenly, leading to increased brake dust output.
In conclusion, Niamh, brake dust is a common issue that most drivers will have to deal with at some point in their driving careers. Although it can be a nuisance, it’s not usually a sign of anything serious and can be managed with regular cleaning and upgrading your brake components. So, keep calm and drive on, knowing that your luxury vehicle is still making a statement, despite the unsightly brake dust!
Your favorite automotive advice writer,
Mike Urban