
Steps for Repairing Scratched Rims
- Clean the Rim Begin by inspecting your rim for damage. Check for scratches and dents that you will need to repair later. ...
- Sand and Fill the Damaged Area Apply Masking Tape to the Tire Apply masking tape to the tire behind the rim and 2.5 to 5.1 cm (1 to 2 ...
- Apply Primer and Paint
How much does it cost to repair a scratched rim?
- Tools: You’ll need basic tools, like clippers, a screwdriver, and pliers. You’ll also need sandpaper and/or a metal filler, which you can find for about $20 to $25 on Amazon.
- Cleaning supplies: Soap, water, and a sponge should work. ...
- How to repair: The video below offers complete instructions.
How to repair rims with Curb rash or scratches?
Steps for Repairing Scratched Rims
- Clean the Rim Begin by inspecting your rim for damage. Check for scratches and dents that you will need to repair later. ...
- Sand and Fill the Damaged Area Apply Masking Tape to the Tire Apply masking tape to the tire behind the rim and 2.5 to 5.1 cm (1 to 2 ...
- Apply Primer and Paint
Can scratched rims be repaired?
Scratched rims can, in fact, be repaired. Even if the wheels are brand new, a scratched rim might be hazardous. Also, the scuffs are nice, and they can reduce the worth of your car. Additionally, you may have to pay more for repair. Because new wheels may be so expensive, it makes sense to have your old ones replaced.
How do you repair a car rim?
- Focus your efforts on the most damaged areas.
- Be sure to get all of the wax and polish from the area around the damage. Failing to do this will hinder the repair process.
- Wipe the area dry with a soft cloth when you're done.

Can scratched rims be fixed?
If they've been scratched or scuffed up, they can be sanded and repainted. Plastic-clad wheel rims. Plastic cladding often looks like chrome, but it's much lighter (and cheaper) for the manufacturer.
How do you fix curb rash on rims?
0:4812:04Fix Curb Rash Wheels at Home - Tutorial - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd what we're going to do is utilize different levels of sandpaper. We're going to sand down eachMoreAnd what we're going to do is utilize different levels of sandpaper. We're going to sand down each one of these problem areas to a nice smooth finish.
Is curb rash worth fixing?
The main reason we think you should fix curb rash before selling a car, however, is that it's surprisingly cheap to do. While many drivers get upset at the idea of damaging a wheel on a curb, the simple truth is that fixing curbed wheels can be done without great expense at prices that can go as low as $50 per wheel.
Can you buff out curb rash?
The process to repair a curbed wheel also can vary but typically involves removing all dirt, paint and protective finishes. The damaged area has to be sanded down, patched with filler if needed, and sanded or buffed to a smooth finish to remove scratches.
How do you get rid of tire curb rash?
10:2814:26How to Repair and Restore Wheel Curb Rash and Rim ScratchesYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd what we're going to be using is index cards to fill between the rim and the tire. So we don'tMoreAnd what we're going to be using is index cards to fill between the rim and the tire. So we don't spray onto the tire. Itself but when you apply your first coat of primer. Apply it lightly.
How do you hide a curb rash?
Put masking tape behind the rim to cover and protect the tires. Then, cover your entire car with masking paper or a drop cloth. Secure all seams with masking tape so that only the damaged rim is showing and the rest of the tire and car is masked.
How do you fill a curb rash?
3:4515:00How to Repair Wheels with Curb Rash and Scratches - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo let's go get started on that only use the 80 grit sandpaper on the damaged areas that you'reMoreSo let's go get started on that only use the 80 grit sandpaper on the damaged areas that you're going to fill with body filler. And stand that area down to bare metal on the rim there's some dark
Can you fix curb rash on alloy rims?
Using 400 grit sandpaper gently sand the damaged area of the wheel. Once grooves have begun to form and the area is rough, stop standing. Cover all scratched areas with Bondo putty and allow the area to dry for five minutes. Gently sand the putty with 600 grit sandpaper until smooth.
How to fix scratches on alloy wheels?
If you want to fix scratches in an alloy rim, start by cleaning the rim thoroughly, then covering the 1 to 2 inches of tire above the rim with masking tape. Once the tape is in place, smooth out any scratches or dents with 240-grit sandpaper, making sure to wipe off any dust from the sandpaper with a dry cloth.
How to fix scratches on a tire?
1. Cover the tire with masking tape. Apply masking tape to your tire behind the rim and 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) surrounding it As you sand the scratches away and apply paint to cover your repairs, this will keep anything from getting on your tires.
How to smooth out a sanded rim?
Rub any scratches and small dents with the sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges. Hold your sandpaper over the damaged area rub it back and forth across the surface. Continue sanding the rim's damage until the scratches or dents feel smooth instead of rough. Wipe off any dust from the sandpaper with a dry cloth.
How to clean a car tire that is dirty?
Use a mild cleaner and washcloth to get rid of excessive dirt. Spray a clean rag with wheel cleaner. Use it to scrub the rim and remove dirt and grime. If your car's tires are especially dirty, you may need to clean them entirely before you fix the damage.
What happens if you fix a scratched alloy wheel?
After you fix your alloy rim scratches, the repairs may not look perfect. Alloy rim repair is meant to mask scratches and make your wheel safe to use, not necessarily restore it to exactly how it looked before.
How to make a car rim last longer?
Inspect your rim for damage. To make your repairs last longer, you'll want to clean the rim thoroughly before you start. Check the rim for any scratches, dents, or other dings that you'll need to fix later on.
How to get dirt off rims?
Clean the rim with paint thinner. Paint thinner will help get rid of any residual dust or debris left on the rim. Dip a washcloth in paint thinner and coat the rim lightly in paint thinner. Apply pressure as you rub the area until the dirt comes off .
What is the best way to protect your wheels from scratches?
The best way to do this is to install a set of wheel protectors like RimBlades or RimSavers. These products are designed to take the brunt of any accidental curb scrapes and scratches, and they’re much cheaper than a professional wheel repair.
How much does it cost to fix a wheel?
Typically, professional wheel repairs will cost $75 to $150 per wheel. The result will look great, however, and the people that offer this service can usually come to your home or business to complete the repair. Very convenient.
Do you have to accept scraped wheel rims?
Remember: You don’t have to accept scraped or scratched wheel rims. Set yourself up with a set of RimBlades or RimSavers today!
Can you replace your wheels?
Replacing Your Wheels. If you have some extra money burning a hole in your pocket, you can just replace your wheels and call it a day. However, there’s still the risk of your new wheels suffering the same fate as your old ones, but you can take preventative steps, which we’re going to cover later.
Can you paint a wheel with a media blast?
This type of job requires removing all the existing paint (usually, you do this with a media blast), filing and sanding down any gouges or scratches, then priming and painting. The downside to this process is the time and the cost. The upside is that, unlike a lot of repair kits, the wheel comes out looking perfect.
How To Fix Scratched Rims?
You need to check your rim for any damage. If you want your repair to take longer, you have to clean your rim very carefully and thoroughly before starting . You also have to check for any dents or scratches that you have to fix.
Is It Expensive To Fix Scratched Rims?
If the damage and scratches on your rims include a crack, then it should be replaced. The cost can be compared with buying a new one. You will be spending more if you have it repaired, but you can do it and buy a new wheel.
How to smooth out scratches on a car?
Using a 400 grit sandpaper, sand the scratched area until there are slight grooves on the untapped area. Rub back and forth, with the sandpaper, across the scratched surface to smoothen the rough edges . When the scratches feel smooth, you can wipe off the dust from the sandpaper with a dry cloth.
How to fix a scratched drywall?
Using a putty knife, lift a small amount of putty from the container. Apply pressure while applying putty to the scratched area with a putty knife. This helps fill in any scratch as fully possible. You can as well use your fingers to smoothen it over the scratched area.
What are rims made of?
Rims are made of metal , but they are very destructible. Scratches on rims are inevitable since rims are vulnerable to many road hazards. Scratches make the rim look dull and old; they harm the car’s aesthetic appeal and may cause a problem for the tire. If the damage is mild, you can learn to repair it yourself and keep your rims looking new and good.
What happens if you bump into curbs?
Bumping into curbs will grind the paint and leave scratches on the rim. Be careful when parking against curbs. Perfect your parallel parking skills, making sure to leave enough space between the curbs and your car’s wheels. Adjust your mirrors exactly how they should be to see the curb clearly.
What causes uneven rims?
Corrosive environmental factors such as salt can destroy your rims, making them uneven and causing the tire seal breakage. Corroded metal will make every upcoming pothole and curb dangerous as it might crack the wheel. Look out for signs of corrosion before it weakens your rims and make them uneven.
What to do before applying primer and paint?
Before applying primer and paint, be sure to cover the tire, wheel, and other nearby parts that might be exposed to the paint while painting to prevent paint on unwanted areas.
What to wear when handling paint thinner?
As a safety precaution, remember to wear a respirator and gloves while handling paint thinner.
How to fix scratches on rims?
Before you fix scratches and swirls in your rims, start by to prepping your wheels and tires, using your designated wheel cleaner to remove dirt, grime and brake dust from every surface of your wheels.
What to do if your rims are stained with polish?
If, for any reason, the polish damages your rims or leaves behind streaks or discoloration, stop using the product immediately! Switch to a different polish or consider consulting an auto repair shop.
How to buff rims to look glassy?
Once you’ve finished erasing any light scratches and swirls, buff your rims to a glassy finish using a separate microfiber towel,blending out any patches that look smoother or shinier than the surrounding areas. For the best results, use a lint free cloth with a lightweight, microfiber blend to avoid streaking or contaminating your flawless finish.
Why polish rims?
It's important to polish clean rims to avoid rubbing harsh soils and other contaminants into your metallic finish, creating even more scratches and swirls to repair! Use your wheel cleaning brush to scrub away tough stains and soils and reach deep underneath your brake calipers to remove as much brake dust as possible.
What to use to prep wheels for restoration?
To prep your wheels for restoration, you’ll need a specialty cleaner, like Turtle Wax All Wheel & Tire Cleaner and a gentle wheel sponge or brush. Avoid hard bristle brushes that could leave behind micro scratches and instead, opt for a gentler, more effective tool like the Wheel Woolie or a soft detailing brush.
How to clean brake calipers?
Use your wheel cleaning brush to scrub away tough stains and soils and reach deep underneath your brake calipers to remove as much brake dust as possible. Allow your cleaner to dwell for the time specified on the bottle, then rinse thoroughly and hand dry your wheels with a microfiber towel.
Where to polish wheels after cooling down?
Once you’ve cooled down your wheels, move your vehicle out of the sun into a garage or under a tree or canopy to begin the polishing process.
How to repair scratches on a car rim?
Ensure that the putty remains within the damaged area to avoid bumps on the flat undamaged areas. If you wish, you may also use metal polish to repair superficial scratches.
How much does it cost to repair a scratched rim?
All it takes is to smooth out the scratches and repaint the wheels. The average repair cost to repair scratched rims would be around $50 to $150 per wheel.
How to fix a scuffed metal rim?
Using a putty knife, swipe a small amount of metal-reinforced spot putty. Then, apply it with pressure to the damaged area. Spread the putty around the area for it to fill as many scratches and dents as possible.
How much does it cost to repair a wheel?
Scratches, cracks, curb rash, and bends are typical damages that wheels and rims can sustain. If you have them repaired in a shop, it could cost you about $50 to $400 for each wheel. The cost depends on the size and type of the wheel and the extent of the damage.
What factors affect rim repair costs?
When getting price quotes for rim repairs, they will assume that you have alloy wheels. Another factor that will affect repair costs is the size of the wheels. Smaller wheels tend to be cheaper. Whereas repairing larger ones would be much more expensive.
What is the most easily damaged part of a car?
Generally, the wheels are among the most easily damaged parts of a car. The cost of getting them repaired tends to vary. It depends on certain factors, such as the wheel size, the type of metal, damage, and the additional services required.
How to get rid of raised putty on a car?
After the putty has completely dried, sand it down using 400-grit sandpaper. Rub it back and forth over the putty-filled areas to get rid of any raised areas. Continue to do so until they are at level with the rest of the rim.
