When you spend time and money on a car, seeing a scratched rim is painful. And rims always take the brunt of daily driving! Parking too close to a curb, rolling over road debris, or neglecting brake dust buildup can all cause damage.
The only good news about this is that most rim scratches can be repaired.
Some can be handled at home with the right materials and patience, while others call for professional equipment and expertise.
This guide explains how much rim scratch repair costs, how the process works, and how to prevent future rim damage.
Rim Scratch Repair Cost by Rim Type
Most rim scratch repairs cost <span itemprop="price" content="50">$50</span> to <span itemprop="price" content="200">$200</span> per wheel, depending on the rim type and depth of the damage. DIY repairs can cost as little as $60 in supplies if scratches are minor.
Severe dents or cracks can exceed $300+ and sometimes require full replacement.
Rim Scratch Repair Costs by Type of Damage
We recommend getting at least 2-3 quotes from reputable shops, especially for cracks or bends. Prices vary widely by city and by shop.
DIY Rim Scratch Repair: A Step-by-Step Guide
Light scratches on steel or alloy rims can often be repaired at home. Here’s a step-by-step process to repair a light rim scratch:
Clean Thoroughly
Wash the rim with a dedicated wheel cleaner or dish soap to remove brake dust and grime. Dry with a microfiber towel.
Mask Off the Tire
Use masking tape or plastic to protect the tire and valve stem.
Sand the Scratch
Start with 220-grit wet sandpaper and move up to 400 or 800 grit until the surface is smooth.
Fill Deeper Gouges
Apply a metal-reinforced filler or spot putty, let it cure, and sand it flush with the rim.
Prime and Paint
Spray automotive primer, then apply matching wheel paint in light coats.
Clear Coat and Polish
Finish with a clear coat and buff with metal polish for a uniform shine.
This method is ideal for shallow scratches and minor curb rash. If you have anything deeper or structural, consult a professional.
What Professionals Do Differently?
Professional shops use precision tools to straighten wheels, weld cracks, and machine surfaces to a factory finish. They also have access to color-matching systems and can rechrome or powder coat wheels for a lasting finish.
Typical turnaround time for a rim scratch repair is one to two days, and many offer warranties on both the finish and the structural integrity.
Should I Repair or Replace My Rim?
If a rim has multiple cracks, major bends, or has been repaired several times, replacement is often safer and more cost-effective.
A new rim also prevents hidden weaknesses that could cause trouble at highway speeds.
How to Prevent Future Rim Scratches?
- Drive carefully near curbs and keep an eye out for potholes.
- Maintain correct tire pressure to help absorb impacts.
- Wash wheels regularly to remove abrasive brake dust.
- Consider rim protectors to act as a sacrificial barrier.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does rim scratch repair take?
Rim scratch repair, also known as refinishing, typically takes 1 to 2 hours per wheel for professional mobile services. The total time can extend to a few hours for multiple rims or minor structural issues.
Does insurance cover rim scratch repair?
Standard auto insurance collision coverage may pay for rim scratch repair if the damage was caused by a collision with an object like a curb or road debris, but it's subject to your deductible. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for complete details.
Do rim protectors actually work?
Rim protectors work well with minor curb contact. Remember that they are not designed for, nor will they protect against, high-speed or high-impact collisions, where the wheel could still sustain dents or structural damage.
Parham Koukia
With nearly 15 years of hands-on detailing experience, Parham has become a trusted authority in the auto care world. His work is regularly spotlighted in leading outlets like CNN, GoBankingRates, and Family Handyman. Parham likes to share his knowledge to offer in-depth tips on equipment selections, seasonal car care, and some secret car cleaning tips used by detailers in the real world!
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