How to Fix a Wheel Rim

Wheel rims are easily damaged and repaired.

The rim of a wheel is the most vulnerable area because of the design and function of the wheels. The rim takes the first contact when a tire goes flat or runs over an object on the road. The rim is also flush with the tire, so it suffers the most damage when the wheels are hit against a curb. Fixing a wheel rim is not difficult and should take a few hours to complete.

Things You'll Need

• 330 grit sandpaper
• Body filler
• 600 grit sandpaper
• 900 grit sandpaper
• 1200 grit sandpaper
• Water
• Spray primer
• Spray paint

Instructions

1. Sand the damaged area along the rim of the wheel with 330 grit sandpaper. If the damage is pitted or has deep scuffs, sand until these are smooth to your touch.

2. Wipe a small amount of body filler onto the damaged area if the area had pits or dents. Fill the area so that it is level with the rim and has no dents or low areas. Let the filler dry for 30 minutes.

3. Sand the dried filler with 330 grit sandpaper again until it is smooth and level with the rim. Go over the area again using 600, 900 and then 1200 grit sandpaper. Wet the sandpaper in a bucket of water to keep it soaking wet while sanding. This prevents the buildup on the paper from scratching into the surface of the wheel. Rinse the wheel and allow it to dry completely.

4. Spray the repaired area with a light colored gray or white primer. Use one moderate coat of primer to cover all the areas that you sanded. Let the primer dry for 30 minutes.

5. Cover the repaired and primed area with spray paint that matches the type and color of your wheels. Most auto parts stores have spray paint made specifically for rims and match most colors, including aluminum, chrome and alloy, among others. Use three coats of paint and allow the wheels to dry for four hours before handling them.