Who says repainting your car rims has to cost a fortune? Whether you’re customizing your vehicle or simply fixing old rims with chipped or faded paint, refreshing them can completely elevate your car’s appearance without blowing your budget.
By going the DIY route, you can take control of the process and, with the right tools and a few careful steps, enjoy the results of this budget-friendly way to repaint your car rims like a pro.
Save on Your Supplies
Achieving pro-level results can be cost-effective. The key is finding budget-friendly products that deliver value without sacrificing quality. At Eagle National Supply, we provide auto body shop supplies that combine high quality with affordability. Start your project with these essential items:
- Degreaser and mild soap for cleaning
- Microfiber cloths for wiping and drying
- Sandpaper in varying grits (80-grit and 400-grit work well for car rims)
- Primer designed for vehicle rims
- Automotive paint for rims
- Spray gun or quality spray paint cans designed for auto work
- Masking tape
- Safety gear, including a mask, gloves, and goggles
Do Some Budget-Friendly Prep Work
A quality paint job starts with meticulous preparation. You can do it on a budget by using affordable tools and techniques that don’t sacrifice quality. Here’s how to prep your rims without breaking the bank.
Remove the Wheels
While a mechanic might charge for wheel removal, you can do it yourself with a basic car jack and a lug wrench, both of which are inexpensive and often included with your vehicle. Place your tools on a clean surface, like an old towel or cardboard, to save money on specialty work mats.
Sand It Down
Grab an affordable pack of sandpaper from a hardware store or dollar shop. Start with 80-grit sandpaper to remove old paint and scratches, then move to finer options like 400-grit for a smooth finish. You don’t need a sanding machine to do this job right. Hand-sanding works just as well and saves you money.
Clean It Up
Skip expensive cleaners by using household items to prep your rims. A mixture of dish soap and warm water works wonders for removing dirt and grease. For stubborn residue, try an inexpensive degreaser from your local auto shop or dollar store. Rinse thoroughly, drying the rims with old microfiber cloths or even a clean, soft T-shirt you no longer use.
Use Masking Tape
When aiming for clean, professional results, masking tape can easily get the job done without costing you a lot. Tape off the tire at the edge of the rims to protect it from overspray. If you’re working on rims with intricate designs, take your time to tape off areas you don’t want painted to maintain sharp lines and fine details.
Stay Safe During the Project
When working on your tire rims, you should always put safety first. Here are some budget-friendly ways to prioritize safety.
Put on Your PPE
You don’t need expensive gear to stay protected while repainting car rims. Look for cost-effective gloves, goggles, and masks at your local hardware store or online. Disposable options work well for small projects and are easy on the wallet. Alternatively, reuse personal protective equipment (PPE) like goggles or masks if they’re in good condition.
Provide Plenty of Ventilation
If you don’t have access to a professional workshop, set up a budget-friendly workspace outdoors or in a garage with open doors. Use a box fan or a ceiling fan from a discount store to improve airflow and keep harmful fumes at bay.
Start Painting
Applying the paint is where technique comes into play in transforming your rims into a polished, professional-looking magnum opus. Done right, this task doesn’t have to be too expensive.
Begin With an Affordable Primer
Spray primers cost as little as $5 to $10 per can, making them perfect for working on a budget. These primers help the paint adhere properly and can smooth out minor imperfections.
Before you start spraying primer, thoroughly clean and dry your rims. Clear debris or sand as well. Leftover dust or moisture can ruin the primer’s effectiveness. Hold the spray can six to eight inches away from the rims. Apply the primer in thin, even coats, using sweeping side-to-side motions to avoid streaks or drips. Don’t rush; allow the primer to dry completely, which typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Choose Budget-Friendly Paint
You also don’t need expensive specialty paints to get great results. Spray paints designed for automotive use deliver excellent coverage and durability for around $5 to $15 per can.
Shake the spray can thoroughly before use, and just like with the primer, hold the can six to eight inches from the surface. Apply thin coats in smooth, overlapping strokes to avoid uneven coverage or drips.
Focus on gradual, even layers as you work. This technique not only saves paint but also gives you a better finish. Plan for two to three coats, allowing each to dry completely before moving to the next layer.
When spraying, use smooth, controlled hand motions to avoid uneven patches or drips. Rotate the rims as needed to make sure you’re covering every angle evenly.
Add an Affordable Clear Coat
After your final coat of paint is dry, you can finish things off with a clear coat for added protection and a sleek, professional look. This step helps seal the paint and gives your rims that extra shine, making them look brand new. With just a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll have car rims that look professionally painted—all without breaking the bank.
Finish the Job With Pride
After your final coat dries, skip costly professional installations by carefully mounting the tire rims yourself. Make sure everything is aligned and secured, then step back and admire your hard work.
Hopefully, you can see that achieving a budget-friendly way to repaint your car rims like a pro is as satisfying as it is rewarding. With the right approach and tools, high-end results are well within reach—no auto body shop required.