Abstract: Customizable methods of protecting select regions of a light metal or alloy workpiece, such as a wheel (10), from corrosion are provided. The light metal or alloy may be magnesium, aluminum, or titanium. A first region (50) of the exposed surface (40) is identified that has increased exposure to corrosive agents in an external environment (in service conditions) as compared to a second region (52). Thus, a corrosion resistant coating is selectively formed over the first region (50) of the exposed surface (40). The second region (52) may have a second distinct corrosion resistant coating. Methods for selectively and efficiently forming such corrosion resistant systems are provided. In certain methods, the locations where the corrosion resistant coating is applied are controlled by immersing only select portions of or selectively masking the workpiece in a micro-arc oxidation electrolyte bath. In other methods, the thicknesses of the coatings are locally tailored by controlling the electric field.