Have you ever had your significant other (or yourself) parallel park the car and felt that stomach-sinking scrape against the curb? You probably cringed and thought, “There goes my perfect wheels!” Curb rash is the bane of every car owner’s existence, especially if you’re a bit of a perfectionist about your vehicle’s appearance. But before you start Googling expensive repair shops or wheel replacements, take a breath. The good news is that you can easily fix curb rash on your own—and save a ton of money in the process.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to repair curb rash on wheels with simple, step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re dealing with minor scratches or deeper gouges, you’ll have your wheels looking brand new by the end of this process.
What Is Curb Rash?
Curb rash refers to the scuffs, scratches, and scrapes that occur when your car’s wheels come into contact with the curb. It’s usually caused by driving too close or hitting the curb during parking. While it’s primarily a cosmetic issue, leaving curb rash untreated can lead to further wheel damage over time.
Why Repair Curb Rash Yourself?
When it comes to wheel repair, DIY solutions not only save you a trip to the auto shop or Powder coating shop, but they can also help you avoid high costs. Professional wheel repairs can range from $100 to $200 per wheel, while doing it yourself costs a fraction of that—usually under $50 for materials.
What You’ll Need for DIY Curb Rash Repair:
Before we dive into the steps, gather these essential items:
- Sandpaper (ranging from 80 grit to 600 grit) (if you have a sanding tool, choose accordingly)
- A metal filler (for deep scratches) (if you need this, the repair might be out of the scope of DIY)
- Etch Primer (wheel-safe) (preferred for a long-lasting repair)
- Matching wheel paint (I recommend a nearby automotive paint supplier)
- Clear coat spray (I recommend a nearby automotive paint supplier)
- Microfiber cloths
- Playing Cards
- Cleaner/Degreaser
- Gloves (to keep your hands clean)
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Repair Curb Rash on Wheels
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Not all curb rash is created equal. The first step in any repair process is assessing the damage. If it’s just light surface scratches, the repair will be easier and quicker. But if you’re dealing with deeper scrapes or even minor gouges, it may require a bit more time and effort.
Pro Tip: If you notice cracks or chunks missing from the wheel, this guide may not be enough—you’ll need professional help.
Step 2: Clean the Wheel Thoroughly
Before you can repair the curb rash, it’s essential to clean the wheel properly. Any dirt, brake dust, or road grime can interfere with the repair process.
- Use a quality wheel cleaner or degreaser to wipe down the damaged area.
- Use a microfiber cloth to ensure the wheel is completely clean and dry.
Why Cleaning is Important: A clean surface allows for better adhesion of the filler, primer, and paint. Skipping this step can result in a subpar repair that doesn’t last.
Step 3: Sand the Damaged Area
This step is where you start smoothing out the scratches. Begin with 240-grit sandpaper and gently sand down the damaged area. The goal is to smooth out the rough edges of the curb rash, so your wheel surface is even.
- Start by sanding with 80-grit to remove large scratches.
- Gradually move up to 220, 320, 400, and finally, 600-grit sandpaper to get a smooth finish.
Pro Tip: Be patient! Sanding too hard can create unnecessary damage, so take your time and check your progress frequently. You’re aiming for smoothness.
Step 4: Apply Metal Filler for Deep Scratches
If your curb rash has left deeper grooves or gouges, you’ll need to apply a metal filler to repair the surface. This filler is essential for rebuilding areas that have been severely scratched or damaged.
- Apply the metal filler using a small applicator (often included with the product).
- Make sure the filler completely covers the gouges.
- Once applied, let the filler dry according to the product’s instructions (usually 15-30 minutes).
After the filler dries, sand it down until it’s level with the rest of the wheel. This will help you achieve a seamless finish in the later stages.
Step 5: Mask Off the Wheel and Surrounding Areas
Before you start painting, use masking tape or painter’s tape to cover the Lugnuts, Center Cap and Valve Stem. You’ll also want to cover the tire, so you don’t accidentally get paint on the rubber, you can use waterproof playing cards to wedge between rim and tire.
- Place the masking tape along the edges of the wheel to create clean lines if the wheel is two-toned.
- Use plastic or newspaper to protect the rotors and calipers from overspray.
Step 6: Apply Wheel Primer
Now that you have a smooth surface to work with, it’s time to apply a wheel primer. The primer helps the paint adhere better and ensures a long-lasting repair.
- Spray a light coat of primer over the sanded and filled area.
- Allow the primer to dry for 10-15 minutes, then apply a second coat if necessary.
Why Primer Matters: Skipping the primer step can result in paint that chips or peels off prematurely. A quality primer will ensure the paint adheres smoothly and evenly.
Step 7: Paint the Wheel
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to apply the paint. You’ll want to use a spray paint that matches the original color of your wheels. Most automotive paint supply stores can help you find the right shade.
- Hold the spray can about 6-8 inches away from the surface and apply light, even coats.
- Allow the paint to dry for 10-15 minutes between coats.
- Depending on the coverage, you may need 2-3 coats to match the original finish.
Pro Tip: Light coats are better than heavy ones. Over-spraying can lead to drips and uneven coverage.
Step 8: Apply a Clear Coat
The final step in your curb rash repair process is applying a clear coat. This clear coat not only gives your wheels a glossy, professional finish but also helps protect the paint from damage.
- Apply the clear coat in thin, even layers, just like the paint.
- Allow each coat to dry for about 15 minutes before applying the next.
Once the clear coat is completely dry (usually after a half hour), your wheel will be ready for action again.
Step 9: Inspect Your Work
After the repair is complete and the paint is dry, remove the masking tape and inspect your work. If done correctly, your wheel should look almost new, with the curb rash completely repaired.
Preventing Future Curb Rash: Tips and Tricks
Now that you’ve put in the work to repair your wheels, you probably want to keep them looking flawless for as long as possible. Here are a few tips to prevent future curb rash:
- Park Carefully: Always be mindful of your distance from the curb, especially when parallel parking.
- Park your own car: if your significant other feels confident in their parking abilities and decides to show you how “good” they have become, say “no thank you, I like the car parked in a particular manner” which would be without adding curb rash
- .Keep Tires Properly Inflated: Under-inflated tires can cause your car to sit lower, increasing the chances of hitting the curb. Regularly check your tire pressure to avoid this issue.
Conclusion: Save Money and Restore Your Wheels with DIY Curb Rash Repair
Curb rash might seem like an unavoidable part of owning a car, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world—or your wheels. With the right tools, a bit of time, and some patience, you can easily repair curb rash on your wheels and restore them to their former glory. Whether you’re dealing with a minor scuff or a more serious gouge, this step-by-step guide will have your wheels looking as good as new.
So next time you hear that unfortunate scrape against the curb, don’t stress! You’ve got everything you need to fix it yourself—and save some serious cash in the process.
