How do you tell the difference between a chromed wheel and a polished wheel? I'm trying to figure out which one I have on the GS I just bought. I thought they were chromed but a service adviser at the dealer told me it's polished. He put his hand behind the rim spokes and was feeling for something. Huh?? Help please!! I've read that polished rims need more frequent cleaning and care than chromed.

 

those are chrome

 

what he said

 

Is there any way to tell for sure? I've read that quality aluminum alloy, when polished, can reach shine levels close to chrome.

 

I've had both on various cars and can tell. I am not aware that the GS350 5 spokes come in polish. I thought they were chrome or painted only.

 

i agree those look like chrome. yes you can get a spectacular shine from aluminum.
but once youve been around wheels enough, you can just tell

 

I love the Chrome on my wheel! I wonder if it was OEM chrome like that??

 

Those are exactly like mine and I have chrome wheels.

 

Thanks for the input guys.

 

Only way I can explain it is that polished aluminum has a softer shine than chrome.

 

So like a 'satiny chrome', right? Kinda like the trim around the windows vs the chrome grille?

On a side note, does anyone know if they make the same satiny chrome for the grille and headlight surround?

 

Yes, satiny is probably a way to describe it. As for the grille and headlight surround, check ebay