Can you paint alloy wheels?
Yes, you can paint alloy wheels at home with spray paint, and the work is mostly preparation. A home finish is not baked on, so it chips and peels sooner than a workshop refinish.
How to paint alloy wheels at home
The steps below are a short outline. Follow the instructions on your own paint, primer and lacquer, as drying times and temperature limits vary.
Check the wheel.
Look for cracks, a bend or air loss first. If anything looks doubtful, stop and get it checked.
Clean.
Wash off brake dust and road grime, degrease the wheel and let it dry fully.
Key the surface.
Sand the old finish and any damage so the new paint has something to grip, filling deep gouges and sanding them level.
Mask.
Cover the tyre, valve and anything else you do not want sprayed.
Why home paint often chips or peels
A wheel finish has to cope with brake heat, road salt, stones and regular washing. The usual causes of failure are easy to spot. Painting over corrosion or peeling lacquer can also trap moisture against the metal. A diamond cut face cannot be restored with paint, because its bright finish comes from machining.
Mobile painted repairs for minor damage
Our mobile team repairs minor scuffs, kerb damage and paint chips for private and trade customers, usually in about 2 to 4 hours on the same day. Mobile repairs use paint, and diamond cut, welding and straightening stay in the workshop. For other places, send your postcode and we'll confirm. Not sure whether a kit is worth trying first? Read DIY alloy wheel repair kits: do they work?
Frequently asked questions
Can you spray paint alloy wheels?
Yes. Aerosol paint works on a clean, sound wheel that has been keyed and primed, though it is less durable than a baked finish.
How long does spray painted alloy wheel paint last?
It varies with the preparation, the products and how you use the car. Brake heat, salt and washing wear home paint faster than a powder coat.
Do you need to remove the wheels to paint them?
Taking the wheels off gives the best access and avoids overspray on the car. If they stay on, mask the tyres, brakes and bodywork carefully.
Can you paint over damaged or corroded alloy wheels?
It rarely lasts. Corrosion and peeling lacquer need removing first, or the new paint will lift. A crack or bend needs checking before any paint goes on.
Can I change the colour of my alloy wheels?
Yes. We refinish wheels in gloss, satin, matte or metallic, in any colour from a paint code or a photo. Send a photo to start a free quote.
Get a quote
Send a photo of your wheels and tell us whether you want a repair or a new colour. We will reply within 24 hours, and a call or photo first lets us book a time. Or call us on 0207 060 3666 Unit 1, 38 Crown Road, Enfield, EN1 1TH · Mon-Fri 8am-6pm · Sat 8am-1pm
Contact
Get a free photo quote
Phone
020 7060 3666
WhatsApp
+447512308716
Address
Unit 1, 38 Crown Road
Enfield
EN1 1TH
Enfield
EN1 1TH