Audi A4 - Aluminium trim (brightwork)

Honest John Back Room » Technical matters
What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks
View Threaded
Fri 20 Aug 2010 18:21
Audi A4 - Aluminium trim (brightwork) - Norfolk Lad

I have purchased recently an Audi A4 almost 4 years old (Reg. Oct.2006) While it is in good condition generally, the brightwork which I understand is Aluminium (not Chrome) has discoloured in places with what appears like a milky or while paint mark. A friend said the car may have been frequently washed in a car was and this was the cause of the problem...Can anyone suggest a remedy to restore the brightwork ? another friend said there is a special aluminium cleaner? not the one used for chrome? but I have not found this product to date. Any ideas please

Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Fri 20 Aug 2010 22:29
Audi A4 - Aluminium trim (brightwork) - Roly93

I know exactly what youre talking about. I have an 07 plate A4 which Ive had from new. My drivers door brightwork has has this milky spotty effect since new.

I pointed it out to the dealre and they just shrugged their shoulders, there were several other A4's & 6's in the car park with the same issue.

Personally I would not advise any form of aggressive cleaning, as you will only remove the coating on the aluminium. I think the only fix is replacement or ignoral. I think this problem may have been caused by the initial preparation of the car prior to delivery.

Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Sat 21 Aug 2010 07:45
Audi A4 - Aluminium trim (brightwork) - madf

I had this on aluminium brightwork in the 1970s. Oxidation caused by penetration of the lacquer top coat.

Complete stripdown, rebuff and relacquer job.

Don't bother...

Edited by madf on 21/08/2010 at 07:45

Reply | Report as offensive | Link