What to Do If the Wheel Rim Is Scratched?
3 Answers
Here are the repair methods for a scratched wheel rim: Clean the wheel hub to remove stains; Apply paint and oil. You can use tape to cover the area around the scratch to prevent accidental painting on other parts; After it is completely dry, use waterproof paper dipped in soapy water to wipe the area, polish it with a mixing machine, and then apply wax. If only the surface of the wheel rim is scratched, it will only affect the appearance and not the performance of the car tire. However, if the scratch exposes the primer, the scratched area will wrinkle and the damage may spread over time, eventually leading to rust and corrosion. If the edge of the wheel rim is scratched, it should also be repaired promptly. In severe cases, it may cause poor tire contact, leading to air leakage.
I've encountered scratched rims several times as well. First, don't panic – minor scratches can often be handled yourself. Wash the rim thoroughly with warm soapy water and carefully examine the depth and location of the scratches. If it's just surface-level, you can use rim polishing compound (available at supermarkets) or even regular toothpaste. Apply it and gently rub in circular motions with a soft cloth, using moderate pressure to avoid making the scratches worse. Rinse with clean water afterward. If DIY doesn't work or the scratches are too noticeable, consider buying matching spray paint – apply it evenly and let it dry completely. Remember to clean the rim crevices during regular car washes, as routine maintenance helps delay corrosion and aging. Improper handling might damage the rim coating, so I always test on a small area first to check results before proceeding with the entire rim.
When it comes to rim scratches, I think it depends on the severity. If it's just a minor surface scratch, it's not a big deal to ignore it—after all, bumps and scrapes are inevitable with long-term driving. However, if the scratch is deep enough to expose the metal or shows signs of deformation, then it's time to take it seriously. Professional rim repair shops use equipment to grind and repaint, restoring the rim to its original condition, with costs ranging from a couple hundred to several hundred yuan. If the cost-performance ratio is good, it's worth doing. Check whether the rim has cracks or affects balance, as this could lead to dangerous vibrations at high speeds. DIY polishing with sandpaper is also an option, but be careful not to over-grind and compromise the rim's strength. When parking, stay away from curbs to avoid frequent scrapes—safety first, after all.
