2022-2025 Toyota Models: Brake Rotor Rust Prevention Film

Purpose of the Wheel Film

Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0038-24, revised on July 12, 2024, outlines the use of a specialized wheel film designed to prevent brake rotor rust. This film is applied to new vehicles during transportation and storage, replacing the older cardboard anti-rust covers. Its primary purpose is to shield the disc brake rotor from environmental elements and initial rust formation before the vehicle reaches the customer. This ensures the brake components remain in optimal condition upon delivery.

What's Being Addressed

This bulletin introduces the wheel film as a new method for protecting brake rotors. The film is intended to remain on the wheels for as long as possible, providing continuous protection against rust. This update affects a wide range of 2022-2025 Toyota models, including the Toyota Camry wheel film application, ensuring consistent quality across the lineup.

Important Warnings and Instructions

Toyota provides specific instructions regarding the handling and removal of the wheel film to ensure proper protection and prevent damage:

• Retention: "Retain the wheel film on the disc wheel during vehicle display and storage." This means the film should not be removed prematurely.
• Pre-Delivery Storage: "If the vehicle will be stored after Pre-Delivery Service (PDS), do NOT remove the wheel film right away." The film offers continued protection during extended storage.
• Final Removal: "Remove the wheel film just prior to the delivery to customers." This ensures the vehicle is presented in its best condition at the point of sale.
• Heating Precautions: When warming the film for easier removal in cold conditions, "Do NOT overheat the film and wheel." Excessive heat can cause damage.
• Adhesive Residue: "Do NOT use paint thinner to remove the adhesive residue." Paint thinner can harm the wheel's finish.

Wheel Film Removal Instructions

Removing the wheel film is a straightforward process. First, firmly hold the outer end of the wheel film. Then, carefully pull the film OFF the wheel. If the ambient temperature is below 0°C (32°F), the film may tear during removal. To facilitate removal in cold conditions, Toyota recommends warming the film above 0°C (32°F) using methods such as splashing hot water on the film, warming with a hot water-soaked cotton cloth, using a heat gun (with caution not to overheat), applying an infrared heater (lamp) for paint (again, avoiding overheating), using a steam car wash, or parking the vehicle indoors for an extended period.

Adhesive Residue Cleanup

If any adhesive residue remains on the disc wheel after the film is removed, it should be cleaned properly. Use a soft cloth dipped in ethyl alcohol (ethanol) to gently wipe away the residue. It is crucial to remember the warning: "Do NOT use paint thinner to remove the adhesive residue," as this can cause damage to the wheel's finish.

Film Disposal Guidelines

Once removed, the polyethylene wheel film should be disposed of according to local laws and regulations. Toyota notes that polyethylene film will not generate harmful gases when it is burned, which is an important consideration for environmental safety.

Warranty Information

This procedure for applying and removing the Toyota Camry wheel film and other models is considered a pre-delivery service and is "Not Applicable to Warranty." This means that the costs associated with this process are not covered under standard warranty claims.