[TransAm]

Hi all. I've got some cars that have a bit of chrome on them and I was wondering if anyone knows the best way to look after it and keep it in top condition. Would you clean the chrome parts just as you normally would the rest of the car during a car wash and polish, or would you recommend a special product?

[MotorX]

You have to watch what you use on chrome, because some products will corrode it and make it look really nasty. Mild soap and water (even the stuff at standard car washes) should be fine, but I recommend avoiding most spray chemicals.

[TransAm]

Thanks for the tip, MotorX! Fortunately I haven't been using any harsh chemicals, just the most gentle soap and water that I can find. You're right, corroded chrome looks horrible and I definitely want to avoid that.

[MomVan]

Is it true that you can clean chrome with soda? I don't see how it would clean it but if it works. I think it would just leave a sticky residue behind and not clean it. What do you think?

[TransAm]

You just reminded me; I've heard that some people actually use coke, soda water or vinegar to clean chrome with. They swear it's perfectly safe and it works well. I probably wouldn't try it on my prized chrome metal first, though, just to be extra sure. Apparently coke is a great rust remover, so maybe that has something to do with it.

[Kohn]

I have found the following tips from http://www.121carbrokers.com/93/how-...e-chrome-parts. You might find the tips useful. Note that it mentions use of simmering water, white vinegar, baking soda, lime, baby oil and fabric softener. In the end it still recommends the use of chrome polish.

Chrome is easy to take care of but may cost you to restore. So it is important that chrome parts are well maintained always. Allow me to share some tips to follow to maintain your chrome shine:

1. Always wash and clean your chrome in simmering water. Then rinse and wipe to restore the shine.

2. By all means, do not use abrasive cleaners, sandpaper or scouring pads or any cleaning tools that can cause damage to your chrome. These types of cleaners will scratch and dull the surface revealing the nickel below.

3. A soft piece of cloth dipped in a solution of undiluted white vinegar can help in removing the grease and grime of your chrome.

4. After cleaning, the chrome generally becomes hazy caused by the swirl marks surrounding it. You can then use soft cloth with baking soda or lime to remove haziness and restore back the shine.

5. It may sound unconventional, but using baby oil over the chrome can help improve the shine. Put some baby oil on a soft cloth and polish the parts to a glow. Do not overdo it, as excess oil can accumulate dirt and dust easily.

6. Using fabric softeners is also effective on chrome. Try this by using a new or used fabric softener sheets to restore the chrome parts in your bike.

7. Don’t rely too heavily on household cleaners though, using a chrome polish is still your best option.. There are products manufactured especially for chrome and you just have to find the best one in stores in your locality.