It can be frustrating when you get a scratch or chip on your car’s rim. But there’s no need to worry – there are plenty of ways to fix it. Keep reading for some tips on how to fix a scratch on your rim.
Evaluate the scratch.
The first step is evaluating the scratch to determine whether it’s something that you can fix at home or if you will need to take it into a shop that specializes in rim scratch repair. If the scratch is small and on the very edge of the rim, you may be able to fix it with some rubbing compound and a cloth. For more prominent scratches or scratches that are further in from the edge of the rim, you will likely need to take it into a shop for repair.
Follow these steps to try to repair the scratch yourself.
To fix a scratched rim, you first need to clean the area around the scratch with a brush and soapy water or wheel cleaner. Next, you can use a tire sealant to fill in the scratch. Last, apply touch-up paint to the area and allow it to dry.
Try buffing it first.
Another approach involves buffing the area around the scratch before you begin. Buffing removes any excess paint and prepares the surface for touch-up painting. First, use a clean cloth to remove as much of the paint from the scratched area as possible. Then, use a buffing wheel on an electric drill to smooth out the surface. Now you’re ready to try to cover the scratch.
Apply a little bit of touch-up paint.
If the scratch is small and on the surface of the paint, a touch-up pen may be all that is needed to repair it. If the scratch is more than just a surface scratch or if the paint is chipped, another coat of touch-up paint will be necessary. Blend the touch-up paint with a brush in even strokes. Allow time for the paint to dry before driving.
Completely repaint the rim.
Another way to fix a scratch on your rim is to repaint it completely. Once the paint has dried, you can use a touch-up pen or spray to cover up any remaining evidence of the scratch. You should also use a sealant to protect the paint and prevent it from scratching again in the future.
Prevent future rim scratches by applying a clear coat sealant to protect the paint.
Applying a clear metal sealant or wheel-specific coating is the best way to protect your paint job because it will create a barrier between the paint and the elements. This will help keep your rims looking new for longer. The main reason why it’s important to use a sealant on your rims is that it will protect them from scratches and chipping.
Allow the clear coat sealant to dry completely.
After repairing a scratched rim, it’s crucial to allow the clear coat sealant to completely dry before you begin to drive your car. If you don’t, the sealant may come off, and the scratch will still be visible. Once the sealant has dried, you’ll be good to go.
If you don’t have any paint or sealant, try these other methods.
If you have a scratch on your rim, there are a few other ways to fix it. One way is to use a toothpick and some nail polish. Another way is to use a marker. Toothpaste can also be used to fix the scratch.
While all of these methods involve using something that will fill in the scratch and make it less noticeable, the scratch may still stand out like a sore thumb and bother the heck out of you. If that’s the case, it may be time to enlist the help of a professional.