Is it necessary to repair scratched car rims?
2 Answers
Whether scratched car rims need to be repaired depends mainly on the severity of the scratches. If the scratches are minor and the primer is not exposed, repair is unnecessary. However, if the scratches are deep and the primer is visible, then repair is required. Methods for repairing rims: Inspect the damage. If the inner part of the rim is not affected, a simple repair can be done. Use paint thinner to clean around the scratched area and remove dirt. For deep scratches where dirt is hard to remove, a toothpick can be used to thoroughly clean the area. To avoid accidentally painting unaffected areas, carefully apply masking tape around the scratched area. Prepare the brush tip and apply touch-up paint. Since the paint will shrink slightly as it dries, it's best to apply it slightly raised. After painting, allow about a week for complete drying. Once dry, use waterproof paper soaked in soapy water to smooth the surface. After wiping with waterproof paper, use a polishing compound to restore shine, and then apply wax.
Having driven for over a decade, I can confirm that repairing wheel rim scratches is indeed necessary, especially if they're deep enough to compromise the structural integrity of the rim. Last time I scraped my rim against a curb and ignored it, rainwater seeped in and corroded the aluminum alloy, nearly causing imbalance at high speeds. Repair isn't complicated: light scratches can be DIY-treated with polishing compound for just a few dozen yuan; deeper ones require professional filling and polishing, costing between 100 to 500 yuan. Neglecting them isn't just about aesthetics—rust can spread, affecting tire airtightness and even leading to blowout risks. I recommend addressing scratches immediately to avoid costly rim replacements later. Regularly inspecting rims and adopting preventive habits like maintaining distance from curbs when parking and slowing down over potholes can save both hassle and money in the long run.
