Peeling wheels

rlcharet
05-15-2008, 01:16 AM
My 2006 base XLR, purchased new 12/06, was upgraded with the multispoke Platinum edition polished aluminum ( NOT chrome) wheels. I got these from the dealer ( they were a dealer upgrade) at the time of purchase. They are GM OEM wheels, and were pictured in the 2007 XLR brochure .
The car now has 11,000 miles on it.
Today I noticed that a clear plastic ( like cellophane) is peeling off the wheels, most commonly where the spokes attach to the rims. To me, it looked like a protective film, applied for shipping, that had never been removed, and was first now separating from the underlying aluminum.
I took the car to my dealer, where the "wheel expert" stated that the "clear coat" was separating. He said that he'd make a telephone call about it tomorrow, and that the wheels will either be repaired or replaced under warranty.
I hope I am provided a loaner car if GM decides to repair, rather than replace.
Has anyone else on this forum had any experience with wheels shedding the clear coat?
Bob

XLR_Lover
05-15-2008, 05:27 AM
Bob,

Had similar wheels on a past Corvette. I know exactly what you're seeing. In my case the underlying metal began to powder, just so happened I was ready to trade her in anyway. So, this does happen, I think it probably started with an overly-aggressive car wash wheel cleaner.

Floyd

rlcharet
05-15-2008, 10:27 PM
Dear Floyd,

Thank you for your letter.
My dealership, Martin Cadillac, in West Los Angeles, has arranged to have the wheels replaced under warranty. In fact, the replacements are expected to arrive tomorrow.
I can't complain!!!
This dealership, in addition to providing free loaner cars for warranty repairs, and free tire repairs, also provides unlimited on site free hand car washes to those who buy or lease cars from them.
I get my XLR washed at the dealership once a week, every Thursday , on the way home from work. It has never been washed elsewhere.
The dealership's "wheel expert" attributed the delaminating clearcoat to an improper application or inadequate curing.
But, by tomorrow afternoon, I'll be riding on new wheels.

Bob

XLR_Lover
05-16-2008, 05:26 AM
Bob,

Alls well that ends well!!!

Other dealerships should take note!!!

Happy for you!

Floyd