Refinishing Aluminum Wheels
This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any
repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's
coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed.
Evaluating Damage
In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer's responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished.
Wheels that have been refinished by an outside company must be returned to the same vehicle. The Dealer must record the wheel ID stamp or the cast date on the wheel in order to assure this requirement. Refer
to Refinisher's Responsibility — Outside Company later in this bulletin.
