How to Re-Paint Rims

Rims can be re-painted almost any color.

Rims of any type can be repainted to look like new or painted to coordinate with your vehicle's color. Aluminum, billet, alloy, steel and even chrome rims can be repainted if the preparation process is done properly. Preparing the surface of the rim consists mostly of sanding and cleaning so that the old finish is removed and the surface is prepared for paint to adhere well. This can be done by almost anyone in just a few hours.

Things You'll Need

• 320-grit sandpaper
• 600-grit sandpaper
• 800-grit sandpaper
• Water
• Wax and grease remover
• Cotton towel
• Masking tape
• Rim spray paint

Instructions

1. Sand the rim using 320-grit sandpaper. This removes any old paint and smooths the surface of minor scratches and dings. Make sure to sand in the crevices and corners as well as the top and both sides of any bars or spokes on the rims.

2. Re-sand the entire rim using 600-grit sandpaper and water. This smooths the scratches put on the surface of the rim by the 380-grit sandpaper. Dip the sandpaper into a bucket of water to keep the paper and the rim soaking wet while sanding. This prevents buildup from scratching into the rim.

3. Sand the rim one last time using 800-grit sandpaper and water. Use the same techniques as with the 600-grit paper. Sand until the rim is dull and completely smooth. The 800-grit sandpaper prepares the rim to be repainted. Rinse the rim and allow it to dry completely.

4. Place masking tape around the edges of the rim on the tire if the tires are still mounted to the rims. Place a small piece of masking tape around the tip of the air valve stem to prevent it from being painted shut. Place small pieces of masking tape around each lug nut if the rim is still mounted to the vehicle.

5. Wipe the rim with wax and grease remover using a soft cotton towel. The remover evaporates quickly and doesn't need to be cleaned off. This removes any grease from fingerprints or old wax particles from cleaners. These could cause imperfections in the finished paint job.

6. Spray the rims with paint made specifically for rims, which will give the best results. Hold the can 8 to 12 inches from the surface of the rim and spray with short, even strokes. Cover the entire rim in a solid thin coat of paint and wait 20 minutes for it to dry before spraying the next coat. Spray one rim at a time. Spray a total of three to four coats on each rim. Let the rims dry for four to five hours after spraying the final coat.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to remove the rim from the car before preparing and painting it, though it can be done while still mounted to the vehicle.

• Spray paint made especially for painting rims can be found in most local automotive part stores.