Scratches on the wheel rims are easy to encounter when in traffic, especially in crowded urban areas. This situation happens very often, but not everyone knows how to fix curb rash on polished wheels.
So we will show you the detailed instructions:
- Sand the scratch with sandpaper
- Use a filler on the scratch
- Shaping and using specialized primers
- Use a specialized polishing solution to wipe the repaired area
Let’s find out how to fix it through the article below!
Some Necessary Items To Fix Curb Rash
- Workwear will help you be safer during the implementation. You can buy it at specialty stores or find it in your own home. Some indispensable items such as gloves, goggles, and masks.
- Prepare sandpapers of various sizes to sand each appropriate area.
- Tape to cover the parts you don’t want to be painted on
- Metallic filler to enter impact zones
- Specialized primer for better and more even gloss
- Wheel rim polishing solution to make the car shine as beautiful as it was.
- Microfiber cloth soaks up the solution for easier and even cleaning.
How To Fix Curb Rash On Polished Wheels
After you have prepared enough tools to fix the curb rash yourself at home, here we will guide you through the detailed steps.
But before starting work, you need to be fully equipped with protective gear not to hurt your skin or harm your health.
Step 1: Use sandpaper to remove all the glossy paint on the rims
First, you need to sand, remove all the glossy paint on the rims with sandpaper. Whether it is a major injury or a small scratch, complete removal of the gloss is necessary.
If you want to make sure you have completely removed the shine, you can watch for dust as you polish. In the case that the dust layer is dark gray, the cleaning has been satisfactory.
Conversely, if the dust is white or light gray, you need to continue rubbing. After that, spray water to remove the sanding dust and wipe it with a soft cloth or let it dry naturally.
Step 2: Use filters to apply to areas subject to the direct impact
At this step, you need to wait a while for the substance to solidify and start shaping it to fit the wheel rim. If the scratch is not too large to be sprayed directly, you can use a pump or finger to apply the solution to the scratch.
It takes up to 30 minutes for this substance to completely solidify and shape. This time may be faster or longer, depending on the area you use.
Step 3: Use another piece of sandpaper to sand the surface flat
Continue using another piece of sandpaper to sand the surface flat. With this piece of sandpaper, you can use a larger version to sand faster and more evenly. You should also choose a type with thick sand to make the rim surface smoother.
Step 4: Clean the wheels for the next step
At this time, the rims will be dull, not as shiny as the original, because the outer layer has suffered many impacts. Therefore, clean the wheels to prepare for the next coat of primer.
Step 5: Use masking tape to divide areas
Apply masking tape to divide areas or cover areas you don’t want the paint to stick to. This makes it easy to apply a variety of colors without affecting the remaining areas.
Step 6: Prime it with spray paint or craft with a brush
Primer with spray paint or craft with a brush. As you probably know, primers need about 2-3 coats, and you need to give them time to dry completely.
Step 7: Spray 1-2 more coats of polish
After the primer coats are completely dry, you can spray 1-2 more coats of polish to restore the rims to their original shiny state. These coats of paint also need to dry before you remove the tape.
Step 8: Finish the last step by removing the masking tape
Peel off the masking tape once the last coat of polish has completely dried. You can use a soft cloth to wipe down the entire rim and any remaining glue if any.
FAQs
How to avoid curb rash on your wheel?
Avoid collisions when traveling or going too close to the edge of the road or construction site. This collision avoidance includes parking off the street to avoid hitting the sidewalk.
Keep a consistent driving speed, and keep a close eye on the road to avoid entering potholes.
Parallel parking control – this method of parking can ensure the safety of both your paintwork and wheel rims.
Use a support tool to secure the wheel rim. Currently, you can refer to a gold guard or a wheel wrap to avoid scratches as much as possible.
One thing many people forget is that they can protect their car by insuring it. Accordingly, auto insurance can help you reduce the burden when repairing or replacing auto equipment.
What are the effects of curb rash if you don’t fix it?
First, if you do not repair the scratches on the rims as soon as they are discovered, it can cause rust. Over time, these injuries can cause brittleness, breakage, and damage, and you must completely replace the rim.
Second, it can affect your tires. Specifically, a damaged rim will make the tire unable to grip firmly and wear more than necessary.
Rims may deform, bend or break.
When should I take my car to a service shop?
Taking the car to the service shop is the last resort because it costs a lot. However, you need to do this if the vehicle details here have been a strong impact.
Even if your car doesn’t have any significant bumps, it is still necessary to take it to a repair shop to have it checked by professionals twice a year.
Of course, you will also have to take the car in for more inspection if it shows signs of abnormality. This will make sure the equipment stays on, and you’re safe on the road.
Conclusion
Surely now you will no longer have to worry when your car has a curb rash. Long-time riders are familiar with this phenomenon, and now you can fix it yourself at home.
