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The Ultimate Guide to Alloy Wheel Refurbishment: From 17 to 22 Inch Rims

  • Writer: Simon Knowles
    Simon Knowles
  • 3 days ago
  • 4 min read

Alloy Wheel Refurbishment

Alloy wheels give your car a standout look, but scratches and scuffs can steal their shine. Knowing how to refurbish alloy wheels is a game-changer for keeping your ride sharp. Whether you’re trying a DIY fix or need professional Ringwood alloy wheels repair, this guide covers everything for rims from 17 to 22 inches. For Ringwood locals, we’ll spotlight expert solutions at Ringwood Alloy Wheels to make your wheels pop.

Why Refurbish Alloy Wheels?

UK roads are tough on alloy rims—curbs, potholes, and debris leave marks. Scratches aren’t just about looks; they can cause rust or weaken the wheel over time. Refurbishing alloys restores their style and protects their durability. Plus, pristine wheels boost your car’s resale value.

Can You Refurbish Alloy Rims at Home?

It depends on the damage. Light scratches—surface scuffs you can’t feel with your fingertip—are perfect for DIY repairs. Deeper gouges, curb rash, or bent rims call for pro expertise. Here’s how to refurbish alloy rims at home and when to seek Alloy Wheels Repair or Alloy Wheels Refurbishment.

How to Refurbish Alloy Wheels: Step-by-Step

You’ll need sandpaper (400-2000 grit), masking tape, rubbing alcohol, alloy wheel paint, clear coat, and a microfiber cloth. Work in a ventilated space, wear gloves, and plan 1-2 hours per rim, whether it’s a 17-inch alloy wheel or a 22-inch alloy wheel.

Step 1: Clean the Wheel

Wash the wheel with soap and water to clear dirt. Wipe it with rubbing alcohol to remove grease. Dry with a microfiber cloth. A clean surface helps paint adhere properly.

Step 2: Mask the Tire

Cover the tire with masking tape to avoid paint splatter. Use small strips for curved edges. This keeps your work tidy, whether you’re refurbishing 18-inch alloy wheels or larger sizes.

Step 3: Sand the Scratches

Start with 400-grit sandpaper, sanding scratches in small circles. Move to 800-grit, then 2000-grit for a smooth finish. Sand only the damaged area to maintain the rim’s strength. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Paint the Rim

Pick alloy wheel paint that matches your rim’s color (check your car manual or ask a pro). Spray thin, even coats from 6-8 inches away, letting each dry for 15 minutes. Two or three coats cover most scratches. Take your time to avoid drips.

Step 5: Apply Clear Coat

Once the paint dries (about an hour), spray two coats of clear coat, waiting 15 minutes between coats. This shields the repair from weather and wear. Let the rim cure for 24 hours before driving.

Step 6: Polish and Inspect

Buff the area with a microfiber cloth for a glossy look. Check in bright light. If scratches persist, add another paint layer or contact Alloy Wheels Refurbishment for pro Ringwood alloy wheels repair.

DIY Pitfalls to Avoid

DIY refurbishment is satisfying, but mistakes can make things worse:

  • Incomplete Sanding: Skipping grits leaves rough surfaces.

  • Wrong Paint: Non-alloy or mismatched paint looks cheap.

  • Rushing Drying: Wet paint smudges without proper wait time.

For paint-matching ideas, browse 19-inch alloy wheels at Ringwood Alloy Wheels.

When to Call a Pro for Ringwood Alloy Wheels Repair

Some damage needs expert care. Reach out to Alloy Wheels Repair for:

  • Deep Gouges: Scratches over 1mm can weaken rims.

  • Bent or Cracked Rims: These require specialized tools.

  • Curb Rash: Extensive edge damage needs pro refinishing.

  • Multiple Wheels: Matching finishes across rims is challenging.

Ringwood Alloy Wheels offers fast repairs for brands like BMW and VW, using precision tools for a factory-quality finish, whether you’re working with 20-inch alloy wheels or smaller sizes.

Why Choose Professional Refurbishment?

Professional Alloy Wheels Refurbishment brings big benefits:

  • Perfect Color Matching: Blends seamlessly with your rims.

  • Durable Coatings: Resist corrosion longer than DIY sprays.

  • Quick Service: Many repairs are done same-day.

  • Warranty: Ringwood provides a 12-month guarantee.

A Ringwood Driver’s Win

Take Sarah, a Ringwood local who curbed her Audi’s 18-inch alloy wheels. Her DIY attempt left uneven patches, so she turned to Alloy Wheels Repair. In hours, her rims were restored, saving her the cost of new wheels. Sarah’s story shows why pros shine for complex refurbishments.

FAQs About Alloy Wheel Refurbishment

How Much Does Professional Refurbishment Cost?

Expect £50-£150 per rim, based on damage. Minor scratches cost less; custom finishes are pricier.

Can All Alloy Wheels Be Refurbished?

Most can, but cracked or heavily corroded rims may need replacing. Get a free quote from Alloy Wheels Refurbishment.

How Long Does a DIY Refurbishment Last?

With care, DIY fixes last 1-2 years. Pro refurbishments, with stronger coatings, can last up to 5 years.

Tips to Protect Your Alloy Wheels

Keep your rims pristine with these habits:

  • Park Smart: Avoid curbs, especially with low-profile tires.

  • Clean Often: Remove brake dust to prevent corrosion.

  • Upgrade Wisely: Check out 21-inch alloy wheels for style and durability.

What’s Next for Alloy Wheel Refurbishment?

Alloy wheel tech is evolving. Self-healing coatings, expected by 2027, could erase minor scratches automatically. Eco-friendly finishes are also trending, perfect for drivers who value sustainability.

Get Your Alloy Wheels Shining Again

Scratched alloy wheels don’t have to dim your car’s style. Fix minor scratches at home with the right tools and patience. For deeper damage or a flawless finish, trust Alloy Wheels Repair at Ringwood Alloy Wheels. From 22-inch alloy wheels to smaller sizes, they deliver stunning results.

 
 
 

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