What to do if the wheel hub is severely scratched?
4 Answers
The treatment methods for severely scratched wheel hubs are as follows: 1. First, clean the wheel hub: Thoroughly clean the wheel hub (I removed the wheel hub for easier handling, but it's also fine to leave it on). After cleaning, dry it with a towel, making sure to wipe off any grease on the surface, as this can affect the painting later! Removing the wheel hub also allows you to clean off the considerable amount of metal shavings and stone debris on the wheel. 2. Smooth the scratched area of the wheel hub: Since the scratched areas are rough, they must be smoothed with sandpaper, using 150# sandpaper for this step. After smoothing (check by hand to ensure it's even), apply putty (wheel hub filler) evenly to the scratched area (ensure the grooves are filled), and wait for the putty to dry! Then continue smoothing with 320# and 800# sandpaper, making sure it's very smooth. 3. Apply paint and clear coat: After the above steps are completed, you can proceed to paint. Before spraying, cover the tire and any parts that don't need painting. Then spray evenly (note: spray in multiple thin layers, waiting for each layer to dry before applying the next, to avoid runs or sagging. After the wheel hub paint dries, finally apply a clear gloss coat.
When wheel rims are severely scratched, I previously tried repairing them myself. Gently sand the surface scratches with fine sandpaper, then clean off the dust, and spray on rim-specific primer and topcoat, preferably matching the original car color. If the scratches are deep but there's no deformation, with some effort, this method can restore 80-90% of the appearance. DIY kits available online for just a few dozen yuan can get the job done, just make sure to work in a well-ventilated area. However, if the rim edge is bent or chipped, attempting a DIY fix might worsen the problem. In such cases, it's safer to seek professional repair services—they have the tools to correct deformations and apply coatings, with costs around a few hundred yuan being reasonable. Additionally, rim scratches aren't just a cosmetic issue; long-term neglect can lead to tire imbalance, causing a bumpy sensation at high speeds. Remember to park farther from curbs—small habits prevent big troubles. Regularly washing the rims also helps reduce corrosion damage.
For severely damaged rims, I recommend prompt treatment, especially for aluminum alloy ones which are easier to repair. Professional shops will use a lathe to grind off the damaged layer, re-level the surface, and apply anti-rust paint, starting from around 100-200 RMB. Don't underestimate scratches - if a deformed rim isn't repaired, you may experience steering wheel vibrations or uneven tire wear while driving, compromising safety and driving experience. DIY options like sanding and painting only suit minor scratches; deep damage should be left to experts for security. When choosing a service, check reputation to ensure weather-resistant materials are used. For rim maintenance, wiping with a soft cloth after car washes preserves shine and reduces minor scratches. Long-term parking in humid areas may accelerate rusting, so don't neglect routine care. Timely treatment extends rim lifespan.
Severely scratched rims should not be ignored as they pose hidden dangers. I've seen a friend's rim dented from impact, causing unstable wobbling at high speeds. Deep scratches or cracks may compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of tire blowouts. During inspection, gently rotate the tire by hand to check for roundness. Scratch treatment: minor ones can be sanded down yourself, while severe damage warrants professional repair or replacement. Alloy rims have good repairability, but don't delay to prevent worsening issues. Safety always comes first—post-repair dynamic balancing tests ensure smooth operation. Similar tire issues also require early prevention.
