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Can you identify the cause of these mystery wheel scratches?

Discussion in 'Model S: Interior & Exterior' started by ToddRLockwood, Nov 23, 2015.

  1. ToddRLockwood

    ToddRLockwood Supporting Member

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    #1 ToddRLockwood, Nov 23, 2015
    When I changed to my winter wheels recently, I noticed these peculiar scratches on the inner surface of my 21-inch left-front wheel. The other three wheels were not affected.

    Any theories?

    WheelScratches.jpg
     
  2. jhs_7645

    jhs_7645 VIN: #3305

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    #2 jhs_7645, Nov 23, 2015
    the pattern suggests driving the car (probably slowly) against something like a rail. Could be from a car wash since it's on the inner side of the wheel?
     
  3. beeeerock

    beeeerock Active Member

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    #3 beeeerock, Nov 23, 2015
    I would agree with this suggestion. The apparent radius of the scratches had me fooled at first, but the rolling motion of the wheel would create almost a 'U' shaped scratch... the rest of which would have been on the rubber and thus invisible.
     
  4. jerry33

    jerry33 S85 - VIN:P05130 - 3/2/13

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    #4 jerry33, Nov 23, 2015
    Almost certainly they are from car wash rails. You're lucky they didn't tear up the tires--it's not that uncommon.
     
  5. sledhead36

    sledhead36 Member

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    Naples, FL
    #5 sledhead36, Nov 25, 2015
    I agree
     
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