For light damage, an alloy wheel repair kit can provide a cheap fix. It will require some time and effort on your part though, and the finish you can achieve with one of these kits isn’t usually to a professional standard.
The damage may still be visible up-close even after your repair. And these kits only come in a limited range of colours, so your repair could stand out even more if the colour isn’t a perfect match. If this worries you, then a professional wheel repair specialist is probably a better choice, as they use a colour-matching machine to make sure the repaired area is noticeable.
If you’re on a budget, have some spare time, and are happy with a ‘good enough’ finish, then an alloy wheel repair kit could be your answer, and this article will help you use one.
These kits are designed for light damage and scratching. If you have medium to heavy damage, such as extensive kerbing or corrosion, or your wheel is bent or fractured, then we advise you go to a professional.
To get a quote from the best alloy wheel repair service in your area, just enter your car registration number here or click on Free Quote above.
If you’re looking for DIY repair options without using a kit, check out our other articles
below:
How To Repair A Scratched or Damaged Alloy Wheel
How To Repair A Bent Alloy Wheel
How To Remove Corrosion From An Alloy Wheel
How to Use An Alloy Wheel Repair Kit
Repair kits allow you to fill in minor damage, creating an even surface, and then provide paint to repaint the damaged area.
Most kits should contain filler primer, paint, sandpaper, lacquer, gloves, brushes, wipes and sponges. You’ll need a range of sandpaper grits, including a fine grain one to create a smooth finish.
Although we provide the general process below, you should still refer to the specific instructions given in your repair kit. It’s also advisable to remove the wheel from your car and lay it flat if possible.
The Process
Step 1. Clean the wheel using an alloy wheel cleaner
Thoroughly clean your wheel to remove dirt and grease. Ideally, you’ll want to purchase an alloy wheel cleaner if there isn’t one included, but washing-up liquid may do the job. Apply the product to your wheel and scrub using a microfibre cloth or brush, then rinse.
Step 2. Sand the damaged area with coarse sandpaper.
With the lower grit sandpaper you have in your kit, perhaps a 240 grit, sand down the damaged area to make sure no part of the damage is protruding out from the wheel’s surface.
Tip: Try wetting your sandpaper by rinsing it as you complete this step. Keeping it soft and moist can decrease scratch marks.
Step 3. Sand the damaged area again with finer sandpaper.
The aim of this step is to create a nice smooth surface using the finest sandpaper you have in your kit, maybe a 400-600 grit. Once you’ve got it as smooth as possible, clean away any dust with a damp cloth and allow to dry.
Step 4. Fill in the damaged area with your filler primer.
If your kit comes with putty then apply it to the damaged area and massage it until it’s as smooth and level as possible. For spray filler, apply it layer by layer, allowing each layer to set before you apply the next. Once applied let the filler set completely before moving onto the next step.
Tip: If using putty filler, make sure you only mix a small amount at a time, otherwise it could set in the tray before you manage to use it.
Step 5. Sand the filler with fine sandpaper.
The aim here is to achieve the smoothest finish possible, so make sure you use your finest sandpaper, at least a 400 – 600 grit, and take your time with this step. Once complete, clean any dust away with a damp cloth and allow the area to fully dry.
Tip: Don’t apply too much pressure at this point, try to be delicate to create the best finish.
Step 6. Use masking tape to prepare your wheel for painting.
Put masking tape over areas of the wheel you don’t want to get paint on, including the tyre.
Step 7. It’s time to paint your wheel.
Be sure to apply the paint layer by layer, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. With spray cans, you’ll need to keep shaking the can before spraying. If you’re using a brush, make sure it’s a small one and that you use it delicately to avoid paint marks. Once complete, allow the paint to fully dry before moving onto the next step.
Tip: Apply a small amount of paint to a piece of paper first to test the thickness and coverage of the paint.
Step 8. Apply lacquer to your wheel to protect the repair.
If your kit comes with a lacquer, then apply a few coats to the damaged area to protect the paint. Allow the lacquer to dry between applications.
Remember, these kits are only designed to remedy minor damage, and even then there’s no guarantee the outcome will be satisfactory. Be sure to get a quote from your local, preapproved wheel repair specialists before you buy a kit, as you may decide the small extra cost is well worth to benefit from a professional wheel repair.
Looking for an alloy wheel repair service near you? Get your FREE quote from a pre-approved, local alloy wheel refurbishment specialist today. Just enter your car registration number below and answer a few quick questions. Wheel do the rest for you!