Corroded rear wheel thingy

[k3ab]

I set out to carry out the roof drainage unblocking procedure over the weekend during which I had to take each of the rear wheels off.

I discovered corosion on the driver's side of the wheel thingy when I took the wheel off:

Do you guys think that this type of corrosion can weaken the piece making the car dangerous to drive? In case the piece breaks off and the wheel comes off?

 

[denzo]

No chance. I suspect thats normal.

 

[GaryThomlinson]

Doesn't look serious to me, and its very unlikely that your wheel is going to fly off unless you dont tighten up the bolts when you put the wheels back on! Looks like a normal level of corrosion after a few years of use. The part thats corroded looks only to be a spacer or protector on that part of the hub. I'm sure someone on here knows the actual name for that part and its exact function, but it doesn't appear to be instrumental in the hub assembly (in terms of taking strain anyhow).

 

[k3ab]

Doesn't look serious to me, and its very unlikely that your wheel is going to fly off unless you dont tighten up the bolts when you put the wheels back on! Looks like a normal level of corrosion after a few years of use. The part thats corroded looks only to be a spacer or protector on that part of the hub. I'm sure someone on here knows the actual name for that part and its exact function, but it doesn't appear to be instrumental in the hub assembly (in terms of taking strain anyhow).

Ahhh what is it with BMWs??!?!?! My 2001 VW Golf GTI had no corrosion anywhere like this. Followed by 2004 Audi A4 (AGAIN no corrosion!)

Anyway Do you guys have any ideas on what I should do with this? Leave it as it is? Clean it and treat it?

 

[Mikey]

All cars will get this as the hub is metal and will rust. Had the same on my Z4Mc and sorted it by firstly removing the rust with a wire brush and some sand paper and then liberally applied copper grease. Don't apply to much grease as the result will be grease all over your wheel and worse on your brake discs which will be a big bummer. There is no danger to the wheel or car but if left untreated the hub will eventually continue to rust and oxidise itself to the wheel, giving you alot of hassle when you need to remove the wheel for what ever reason.