How to Paint Aluminum Wheels

Unlike steel or chrome wheels, aluminum wheels can be easily scratched or dented from everyday driving. These dings and scratches catch and hold dirt, making the wheels dirty and lowering the value of the vehicle. A new set of wheels, even direct factory replacements, can be very expensive. Wheels can be refinished with paint, but painting wheels is not as simple as spraying them with a can of spray paint. Improper steps can cause paint to chip, peel and flake within weeks of application. Paint aluminum wheels properly and they will last for years.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paint thinner
• Towel
• Car wash soap
• Stiff bristled brush
• Water
• Sand paper (200 grit)
• Automotive primer (spray-can primer is okay)
• Automotive paint (spray-can automotive paint is okay)
• Clear coat paint

1. Wash the wheels down with soap and water and scrub them with a stiff bristled brush. This removes the dirt, mud and road grime. Allow the wheels to dry completely.

2. Wipe the wheel's surface with paint thinner and a clean towel. This removes the teflon coating and gets to the surface of the aluminum. Paint and primer won't stick to the teflon coating so make sure all of it is removed. The teflon is shiny and feels smoother than aluminum. After wiping with paint thinner, check to see that all of the shiny areas are gone from the wheel.

3. Sand the wheel with 200 grit sand paper to prepare the surface for primer. Only sand the areas that you want to paint. Sand the surface lightly to remove any scuff marks, stains or bumps.

4. Spray three coats of primer on the surface of the wheel, allowing each coat to dry before applying a new coat.

5. Apply the paint to the wheels, using light, steady, even strokes to prevent runs in the paint. Apply 3 to 4 coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying a new coat.

6. Clear the wheel with 2 or 3 clear coats. This protects the paint from small chips and scratches and keeps the paint shiny.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use a face mask when sanding and spraying primer and paint.