How to Repaint Alloy Wheels

Repainting alloy wheels can bring back the shine and luster of the old wheels. Pitting, scratches, and other imperfections that develop over time can be repaired and restored using common and basic tools. When repainting alloy wheels, it's important to make sure that you are working in a well-ventilated area and that you have a clean surface to work on.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rustoleum paint (your color choice)
• 600 grit sandpaper
• Brasso wheel polish
• Steel wool
• Newspaper
• Masking tape
• Clean rag
• Soap
• Water
• Clean towel

1. Remove any old paint or clear coat on the wheels with 600 grit sandpaper. The 600 grit will scratch the surface, but this is OK. Sand off any and all scuffs and pitting on the wheel.

2. Apply Brasso polish to the wheels and scrub it into the wheel with steel wool. The wheel will become nice and smooth.

3. Clean the wheel off with soap and water. Then, dry the wheel with a towel.

4. Mask off any area of the tire that you don't want to have painted with masking tape and newspaper.

5. Apply 3 coats of Rustoleum paint to the wheels. Let each coat of paint dry for 1 hour before applying the second coat. Depending on your location (heat, humidity, etc.) you may need more or less drying time.

References

• Automotive Body Repair and Painting Manual by Haynes; Jay D. Storer, John H. Haynes; 1994