Are the machined rims on your car looking less than stellar these days with unsightly marks and scratches known as “curb rash” marring their beauty? If so, you’re not alone – curb rash is an all-too-common problem many of us face. The good news is, it doesn’t have to stay that way: by taking a few steps now, you can restore those sparkling rims for a fraction of the cost of professional work.
Curb rash typically occurs when a driver accidentally scrapes or brushes their rims against the curb while parking, resulting in scratches, scuffs, and dings. While it may seem like just a cosmetic issue, leaving curb rash untreated can lead to more severe problems down the road – literally.
Here, we’ll walk you through how to fix curb rash on machined rims so your wheels look just like new again!
What Will You Need?
Before you get started, make sure you have the following supplies on hand:
- Sandpaper (1000 grit and 2000 grit)
- Clear coat or touch-up paint
- Automotive rubbing compound
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Water and soap solution
- Masking tape
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Bucket of water
- Sponge or soft bristle brush
Once you have all these items, it’s time to get started!
10 Easy Steps on How to Fix Curb Rash on Machined Rims
Step 1: Clean the Rims
The first step in fixing curb rash on machined rims is thoroughly cleaning the affected area. This will help remove any debris or dirt that may be stuck in the scratches and prevent them from worsening during the repair process. Use a water and soap solution and a sponge or soft bristle brush to gently clean the rims.
Step 2: Sand the Affected Area
After cleaning the rims, the next step is to sand the affected area. Put on your gloves and safety glasses, then use the 1000-grit sandpaper to rub over the curb rash gently. The goal is to smoothen the scratches and make them less visible. Be careful not to sand too hard or too much, as you might damage the rims’ finish. Once you’ve rubbed the area, rinse it with water and let it dry completely.
Step 3: Apply the Rubbing Compound
Next, apply a small amount of the automotive rubbing compound to the microfiber cloth and gently rub it over the sanded area. The rubbing compound smooths the surface further and prepares it for applying a clear coat or touch-up paint. Make sure to rub in a circular motion and avoid using too much pressure. Once you’ve rubbed the compound, rinse the area with water and dry thoroughly.
Step 4: Tape the Surrounding Area
The fourth step involves protecting the rest of your wheel from the repair process. Use masking tape to cover the area surrounding the curb rash carefully. This stage is crucial to prevent any accidental damage or unwanted paint from spreading to the pristine parts of your rim. Patience is key here; ensuring a tight seal will produce a professional-looking finish.
Step 5: Apply the Clear Coat or Touch-Up Paint
After ensuring the surrounding area is adequately protected, it’s time to start restoration. Apply the clear coat or touch-up paint to the sanded and treated area. Use thin layers and take your time to cover the area evenly. Remember that applying multiple thin coats is better than one thick one; it will provide a smoother finish and better match the rest of the wheel.
Allow the coat to dry completely before proceeding. Depending on the product instructions and environmental conditions, this could take several hours or even overnight. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Step 6: Sand the Clear Coat or Paint
After the clear coat or touch-up paint has completely dried, the next step is to sand it. Use the 2000 grit sandpaper for this process. The objective is to blend the treated area with the surrounding surface of the rim.
Gently rub the painted area, ensuring the surface is smooth and even. Be careful not to overdo it; you do not want to remove the paint or clear coat you just applied. Once done, rinse off the area with water and allow it to dry.
Step 7: Apply Another Layer of Clear Coat or Paint
Once the sanded area has dried completely, apply another layer of clear coat or touch-up paint. This step is crucial in achieving the glossy finish associated with machined rims.
As before, remember to apply thin, even coats and allow for complete drying before moving on to the next step. This repeated layering process helps to build a seamless surface that blends perfectly with the rest of your rim.
Step 8: Final Sanding and Polishing
After the last layer of clear coat or paint has thoroughly dried, perform a final sanding using the 2000 grit sandpaper. This step will ensure a seamless blend between the repaired area and the rest of the rim. Once you’re satisfied with the smoothness of the area, rinse it off and let it dry.
Finally, apply a small amount of automotive rubbing compound to a clean microfiber cloth and polish the entire rim. This will give your rims a glossy finish and help protect them against future damage. Use circular motions and take your time for the best results. Your machined rims should now look as good as new!
Step 9: Clean and Wax the Entire Wheel
After polishing, your final step should be to clean the wheel thoroughly. Rinse it with water to remove any remaining rubbing compound, then dry it thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth. To finish off, apply a layer of wheel wax using a separate cloth. This will not only make your rims shine, but it will also protect them from future damage. Work the wax in with circular movements, covering the entire wheel.
Once done, leave the wax to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then buff it off using another clean cloth. Congratulations, you’ve successfully repaired the curb rash on your machined rims!
Step 10: Regular Maintenance
The last step is regular maintenance. Now that you have fixed the curb rash on your machined rims, it’s essential to maintain them to prevent future damage. Regular cleaning and waxing can protect your rims from grime and minor scratches. Check your tires and rims regularly for any signs of damage.
If you notice any curb rash, follow the steps outlined in this guide to repair it promptly. Remember, taking care of your rims enhances the look of your car and its resale value.
By following these steps, you can quickly fix curb rash on machined rims and keep them looking brand new.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Regular Maintenance: Ensuring regular maintenance of your machined rims is critical to preventing curb rash from appearing or worsening. This includes timely cleaning and polishing.
- Use a Repair Kit: Investing in a professional-grade repair kit designed explicitly for machined rims can save you from expensive wheel replacements. These kits usually include a filler, sandpaper, and paint to fix minor rashes.
- Apply a Protective Sealant: After repairing, apply a protective sealant to your machined rims. This can provide an extra layer of protection against future curb rash incidents.
- Practice Careful Driving: The best way to avoid curb rash on machined rims is by exercising cautious driving. Avoid getting too close to curbs or rough terrain, particularly when parking.
- Seek Professional Help: If the curb rash is severe or you’re unsure how to fix it, seek professional help. Some skilled technicians specialize in repairing curb rash on machined rims and can restore them to their original condition.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can keep your machined rims looking pristine for longer and save yourself from the hassle of costly replacements.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Ignoring Minor Damage: Even small scratches or dings should not be disregarded as they can escalate over time, leading to more severe curb rash. Address these immediately to avoid more significant problems down the line.
- Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools when cleaning your machined rims. These can cause further damage to the rim surface. Always use cleaners specially formulated for machined rims.
- DIY Repair Without Proper Knowledge: Any DIY repair attempts must be carried out with a proper understanding of the process. Incorrectly applied repair methods can lead to further damage.
- Skipping Regular Inspections: Make sure to complete regular inspections of your rims. Regular checks help identify potential problem areas before they become more significant.
- Inadequate Wheel Alignment: Poor wheel alignment can make your rims more prone to curb rash. Therefore, ensure that your wheels are correctly aligned to avoid unnecessary contact with the curb. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can extend the lifespan of your machined rims and keep them in optimal condition.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can extend the lifespan of your machined rims and keep them in optimal condition.
Conclusion
All in all, how to fix curb rash on machined rims can be challenging, but with the right supplies, tools, and knowledge, anyone can do it. Be sure to purchase high quality products to make your repairs last as long as possible.
Following the steps outlined in this blog post, your rims should look as good as new. Of course, if you ever feel overwhelmed by the process or stuck at any of the points, don’t hesitate to consult a professional for help. Remember – there’s no shame in asking for assistance with more complex projects like these!
So don’t give up – you can get your rims to look new again if you dedicate time and effort to them. Now, go out there and make those wheels shine!
