Go to homepage

Search for Brand, Model and Type:

What are you looking for?

Please enter your key-numbers:

You will find the key numbers in your registration certificate under 2.1 and 2.2

  • 1 HSN (4 digit number)
  • 2TSN (3 digit number)
€0.00* Korb
Ruf uns an: +49(0)160-938 799 82
oder schreib uns

21/11/2023

bmw-felgen-kaputt-300x225-1

Repair rim damage yourself

Anonymous
General

Repair rim damage yourself


It happens quickly: when parking, you drive too close to the curb and your new, expensive rims are scratched. This is not only annoying and looks unsightly, it can also be dangerous, because small hairline cracks can expand further and damage the rim completely. For proper protection of your alloy rim, it is a good idea to take proper care of it. But do not worry, there are ways and means to patch the damaged rims again to some extent by yourself. A factory original condition will not be achieved even with the best tips and tricks, but at least new original rims can be preserved and their life extended so that you no longer or hardly see the damage. Here we show how it's done.     


First check: Are rim and tire too damaged?


Before you set about repairing your rim yourself, you should check whether it is even possible to do this on your own. In addition to the rims, you should definitely check your tire, because tires are often damaged even inconspicuously underneath the rim. Therefore, you should first remove the rim and put the wheel through its paces. Basically, the rule of thumb is: you can repair rims yourself, but not tires. If in doubt, always consult a professional. It's important to emphasize that you can only repair minor damage to rims yourself. Sometimes cracks are so deep or long that the rims are actually damaged beyond repair. Do not experiment in this case, but better buy new rims at Premium Wheels.  


Repair minor damage to the rims

If you have only lightly grazed an object or if coarse dirt and small stones have damaged the rim while driving, minor scratches or abrasions can be ironed out yourself. The most effective method as a rim repair is the so-called smart repair method. In this process, the damaged areas are first smoothed or ironed out and then freshly painted as corrosion protection. For this you will need the following materials or items:


  • warm soapy water
  • nitro thinner/cleaning agent
  • sandpaper
  • coarse paper and fine paper
  • a small vacuum cleaner if necessary
  • duct tape
  • putty knife
  • putty
  • primer
  • color varnish matching the rim color, alternatively: universal rim silver
  • clear lacquer
  • a spray gun for the paint


Below, we have put together instructions for you on how to patch your alloy rims yourself the best way.  


Repairing aluminum rims in Smart-Repair - Step 1: thorough cleaning and sanding

First, you should thoroughly clean the damaged rims. It is best to proceed as described in our article The right rim care. Warm soapy water is ideal for initial cleaning. Then clean the damaged areas with nitro thinner. It is important to let the rim dry properly afterwards. This should be followed by sanding, pre-sanding with coarse paper and then re-sanding the affected area with fine paper. Thoroughly vacuum up the dust particles and material residue created by the sanding process. Alternatively, clean the areas by blowing them off thoroughly, followed by cleaning with a small brush.  


Repairing aluminum rims in Smart-Repair - Step 2: Filling

Now we approach the complicated part. Before you start filling, it is essential to thoroughly mask the areas around the damaged areas with duct tape. Because in a moment the damaged areas will be properly sanded and sprayed, and without sufficient protection the non-damaged areas may be attacked. Carefully fill the damaged areas with putty and smooth them. Be very careful and mix the putty in the right proportions! Exact information on this should be provided in the instructions for the putty material. Then allow the putty to dry sufficiently - better too long than too short.  


Repairing aluminum rims in Smart-Repair - Step 3: renewed sanding and priming

Now the excess filler must be sanded again. It is important to start with coarse sandpaper and use very fine sandpaper for smoothing. Then remove existing residue again, as described above in step 1. Now follows the primer for the paint. At worst, you will have to sand the primer again and reapply it if the damage to the area becomes visible again.  


Repairing alloy wheels in Smart-Repair - Step 4: Painting

After priming, paint the damaged area of your alloy wheel in two steps:

  1. Apply color paint at least 3 to 4 times
  2. Apply clear lacquer or rim silver about 3 times

It is important with both types of paint that you do not spray the specific area selectively, but rather guide the spray gun in circular or oscillating motions to avoid color differences from the rest of the rim. Let the paint dry and polish your alloy rim again at the very end. Congratulations - if you've done everything right, the damaged areas should be undetectable or barely noticeable.  


In an emergency: buy new rims

With the steps described above, you should be able to make light damage to rims almost invisible and remove it on your own. However, if you still see damage on the rims even after careful execution, you should think about a new purchase at Premium Wheels. We have first-class rims and complete wheel sets for your car in our assortment, all from the original manufacturers, of course all with warranty. Take a look around with us.


Read more tips about rim care:



More Articles