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You don’t always have to take your wheels to a professional to repair rims and remove scratches. You can fix minor imperfections yourself.
Repairing rims: How to remove minor scratches from rims
Before you start repairing the rim, clean it thoroughly with water, soap, and a rim brush. Then proceed as follows:
- Dry the rim thoroughly with a lint-free microfiber cloth. Then take a soft cloth and apply some car polish to it.
- Polish the scratches using circular motions and applying a little pressure.
- Check your work. If the scratches are still visible, repeat the polishing process.
- Remove all traces of the polishing paste from the rim with a clean microfiber cloth until the metal shines.
Removing deep scratches from rims: Use a repair kit
You can repair more stubborn damage with a special repair kit for rims. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid causing further damage.
- Start by thoroughly cleaning the rim, which must be completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
- First, mask off the areas next to the damage so that you do not leave any sanding marks on undamaged areas. Carefully smooth the edges of the deep scratches with sandpaper. Be careful not to remove too much material. The goal is to create an even surface to facilitate the application of primer and paint.
- After sanding, clean the rim thoroughly again to remove any sanding dust. Then apply a coat of primer to help the paint adhere better. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Information on drying time can be found on the manufacturer’s product packaging.
- Choose a paint that matches the original color of your rim. Use a small brush or spray can to apply it. To prevent runs, apply thin coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying more paint.
- Once the paint has dried, apply a coat of clear lacquer. The clear lacquer protects the paint from weathering and abrasion. It also gives the rim a glossy finish. Allow the clear lacquer to dry completely as well.
- Important: For safety reasons, rims may only be repaired if the damage is less than one millimeter deep. Repairs are not permitted in the case of severe deformation or cracks, as the driving safety of the tire can no longer be guaranteed. In the case of particularly deep scratches or dents in the rim, you should therefore always seek advice from a specialist company.
Rim care: Further information
Please also note the following points:
- Always work in well-ventilated areas. Paints and other chemical substances release vapors. These vapors can be harmful to your health. Wear gloves and a respirator for protection.
- It is important to adhere to the drying times specified by the manufacturer. Processing too quickly can affect the end result.
- Clean your rims regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and chemicals. Such deposits can damage the rims over time.
- Try to avoid curb contact when parking. Curbs are a common cause of scratches and damage to rims.
