Rust on "stainless steel" running boards
 

I was doing some cleaning on my X5 and noticed that the running boards were starting to develop small circles of rust on the surface. They wouldn't come off with a toothbrush. I haven't tried any metal cleaners yet...

1) Has anyone else noticed this?
2) Did it come off?
3) If not, then did the dealer replace them?

Thanks in advance...

it's normal.
most likely is from ur break dust.

try some metal polish first. if nothing come out, magic eraser helps.

dealer won't replace it regardless.

They aren't rusting, its rust spots from metallic break particles etc. A clay bar will remove them

dusting off this old thread. I have been plagued by the rust spots on the running boards. I have polished them used various cleaners to no avail. I am a regular detailer of all my vehicles and others. Anyway I have found an excellent solution. I tried a product made by C.Quartz called IronX. Spray it on the running boards and when it comes into contact with the iron(oxides) it reacts with the iron particles and will turn purple and disolves the iron. Works like a charm as advertised and is not harmful to paint (follow instructions). You can also use it on the paint to remove iron particles from the body work as a pre-treatment to claying. Sure beats my old method of polishing them off. I am in no way affiliated with this product just passing along some info.

Iron X

Sounds like something I should add to the detailing regimen. Where is an easy place to buy? Any brick and mortar stores?

You will have to get from a detail shop. I bought mine from eshine in Canada. Check with Detailers Domain or the like. Works fantastic!! (may be under CarPro Products)

Thanks again. I just put an order in at DD. Good tip about CarPro. :)

I am assuming also that if still under warranty this issue is covered ?

I would not think it is covered. They would probably blame it on environment. Depends on your dealer relationship YMMV.

Hmm I would think it's covered since it's a defect in craftmanship on it just like rust in paint. But you are right the dealer would try to steer you to believe it's not covered. Mine is fine.