We only recommend the following DIY repairs to cosmetic damages such as scratches or light kerb side damage. We strongly encourage you to send your rims to the professionals if the damage is more than cosmetics, even for hairline crack. If it is very bad, consider buying a new or second hand set.

WARNING: IT IS EXTREMELY UNSAFE TO DRIVE WITH A DAMAGED RIM!

What you need:

  • Paint thinner
  • Sandpaper: grit 250, 400, 1500 or 2000
  • Suitable wheel lacquer for your rims
  • Clear coat spray
  • Plenty of rags
  • Polishing compound and polishing cloth
  • Protective materials: masking tapes, newspaper, tarpaulin plastic cover, etc

Note: Hot days are best for the job as the drying is quicker. Perfect for Singapore weather!

  1. Protect the tyres by using masking tape. Thoroughly clean the area with paint thinner. Just focus on the area that needs repair.
  2. Use a course grid (250) sandpaper to sand down the damaged area. Use a back and forth motion to remove the scuffs or scratches.
  3. Fill in the sanded area with scratch filler putty. A tip is to use an old sponge in your application. Wait for the putty to dry before applying a thin coat of spot putty over the area. Allow the spot putty to dry.
  4. Use a 400-grit sandpaper to smoothen the area. You should feel that the area is smooth to touch. Use a small piece of wood as a mini sanding block to help you with the sanding. Stop when the area blends in nicely with the rest of the rim. Remember not to over sand.
  5. Protect the rest of your car as painting is next. Masking tapes, newspaper and tarpaulins would come in handy.
  6. Spray the area with the appropriate colour of wheel lacquer (usually silver). Get an even coat with each spray and do not over spray till it is dripping. Wait for the lacquer to dry before spraying two layers of clear coat. This puts the shine to the rim. Allow time for each clear coat to dry before spraying the next.
  7. Use super fine grit 1500 or 2000 sandpaper to buff the area and remove minor imperfections in your spray job. Finally, use a polishing compound to polish the area in a circular motion.  Polish till shine!