Expert: Henry Boyter - 12/31/2004

Question
I have aluminum wheels on my car.  There are (I assume) lead weights on the wheels for ballancing.  It seems these lead weights are causing the surface of my wheels to corrode.  Is there some chemical reaction that could be taking place when these two metals come in contact; or when water from rain is involved?  Thanks

Answer
Couple of things.

1. You should have coated lead weights on the wheels which do no hurt the aluminum.

2. If the corrosion is not limited to the area directly around the lead, then it is not the lead.

This is from a wheel manufacturers website.
http://www.enkei.co.jp/en/t_know_03.html

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Daily Care

Aluminum alloy wheels are susceptible to corrosion when they are exposed to salt or mud. Therefore, wash them with water after driving the vehicle on the beach or on a snowy or unimproved road. Before using a commercial wheel cleaner to wash the wheels, be sure to read its operation manual.
Using car wash equipment could scratch the wheels. Therefore, it is best to wash them by hand. When doing so, be careful with sharp edges, which could be hazardous to your hands.
For storing the wheels, wash them thoroughly and store them in an area that is not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
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Other websites seem to say aluminum wheels will not corrode or like above they say you shouldn't get them dirty or they will corrode.

I think you are seeing nothing but general corrosion.  The lead amy contribute if you don't have the correct weights, but the lead will not be the general culprit.