how can i tell if mine are coated? they have these flakes coming off of them... should i not mess with them if they have those?

 

The rims that are in your picture are coated. I had those rims on my car when I bought it and they have kind of a clear coat on them. I have polished alluminum rims now and I use the mothers alluminum polish.

 

what should i do with the flaky ****? just leave it, or can i like... recoat it or something?

 

Some wheels are just bare aluminum that are polished to be shiny. From itcantbestephens sig they look like they're polished in which case 1stcloness's info would work great if your wheels are in bad condition. I saw a write up a guy with a Firebird that did that to his polished wheels and they turned out great. As for you po1son you probably can have your wheels recoated, but I personally think you'd be better off finding another set of OEM wheels that are in good condition or buying aftermarket wheels.

 

I like to start with blue magic from wally world, then finish with mothers. Blue gives a good shine, but it doesn't last. The powerball things are nice too. If you use the ball, use the power metal polish for it. The two work well with each other.

 

I use wheel wax on my camaro wheels and on my Tahoe wheels. I have been satisfied with the results.