I traded an old set of 17" Motegi rims for a dirty but good set of 15" aluminum wheels, and I'm really happy with them. The ride is improved 1000%, and since my car is an EX, they look appropriate. The previous owner had spray painted them black, then later removed the paint. However, there are still flecks of black paint in the spokes, and his suggestion to use paint thinner on them seems like a good way to strip what clearcoat is left.

What would you recommend for removing paint from aluminum wheels?

 

Are the clear coated or clear anodized? Try a dab of mineral spirits on an inconspicuous area, that will remove most spray bomb paints without hurting the parent coating.

 

Clear coat, but it's coming off in places. Mineral spirits should do the job, and won't make things any worse, even if it doesn't help. It will get rid of some of the caked on brake dust.

 

Hey Mveilenstein,
Clean ride!
I had the same problem with my 1999 civic could never get the wheels to look new again with all the brake dust.
You should really check this product out on amazon. this product is like a life hack. put some in a spray bottle and brush your wheels with a automotive brush then hose it off! its a game changer!
Heres a link
https://amzn.to/3ayfEMd