April 11th, 2022 by Sarah Miles

If you are a car enthusiast, you may already know what iron contamination is. If not, you may have noticed patches of discolouration on your alloy wheels. This is how iron contamination first presents itself and, if not treated, it will eventually turn into rust.

Here is everything you need to know about iron contamination.

Iron contamination is caused by iron particles from your brake pads

Iron contamination is a result of iron fallout (tiny particles of iron that sheds from brake pads) attaching themselves to the wheels. This then oxidises which starts to attack the metal, first causing discolouration and eventually rusting it.

Iron fallout bonds itself to the metal

A number of factors come together to cause the particles to lock onto the surface of your alloys. This includes an already sticky surface from grease, dirt, and general road contaminants, the fact that both the iron particles and wheel surfaces are hot when in motion, and – most significantly – that the edges of the particles are jagged, and this allows them to grip the surface. The oxidisation process further exacerbates this.

It can’t be washed or scrubbed away

Because it’s bonded so firmly, you can’t just wash it off. The rough surface of the particles will likely just rip apart any sponges or cloths you use and anything abrasive could damage the wheels. (Without actually making any impact on the iron fallout).

Once rust has formed, it can’t be reversed

If you allow it to get to the stage where rust spots have formed, there isn’t really anything you can do to restore your wheels and you would have to either tolerate it or replace the alloys.

You can reverse the discolouration though

If you take action at the discolouration stage, you can bring your wheels back to their former glory. Not only can you stop the oxidisation process, and therefore prevent rust from forming, but you can also remove the dirty looking patches that are blighting your wheels. You can achieve this by using an iron fallout remover.

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You can actually change the shape and structure of the iron particles

That’s right, the solution lies not in elbow grease, but in science. Iron fallout removers contain an active ingredient known as Sodium Thioglycolate that creates a chemical reaction with the iron. This smooths out the jagged edges and releases its bond on the metal. It’s really quite ingenious. 

It just takes 5-10 minutes to treat

Because you’re using clever chemistry and not manual labour to remedy this issue, there’s no real work involved on your part. Just spray the product onto the wheel and leave for 5-10 minutes. It’s designed to cling to the surface to allow maximum contact. You will see the chemical reaction taking place as it changes colour to purple or red and releases a potent smell. Few other products rarely earn names like Dragon’s Blood and Troll’s Breath like these ones! Then just rinse with warm water. The particles will be released and washed away with the water. 

Use on paintwork, under the car, and glass

If you choose a product that is pH neutral, it can be used on any other area of the car that has iron contamination, without damaging its surface. 

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