Looking for a way to change the look of your car without spending a lot of money? Paint your rims! You can choose any color you want, and you can even paint them yourself with a kit, however, a pro shop is recommended. In this article, I will discuss where to find a shop, the painting process, and frequently asked questions. I will also share my experience with the shop who paints rims near me.
Map of Who Paints Rims Near Me
For “Who Paints Rims Near Me”, see the map below…
Who Paints Rims Near Me
There are a few options available when it comes to getting your car rims painted. You can take them to a professional paint shop, or you can do it yourself.
If you decide to take them to a professional paint shop, be sure to ask about their rates and turnaround time. Some shops may charge by the hour, while others may have a flat rate. Be sure to get an estimate before having the work done. You may want to ask about packages involving more than one wheel. Having all 4 done together will make them look consistent and the price usually is reduced per rim.
How Much Does it Cost to Paint Rims?
The cost of painting your rims will depend on the number of rims being painted, the size of the rims, and the type of paint being used. Some paint shops may charge by the hour, while others may have a flat rate. Be sure to get an estimate before having the work done. It will also cost more if there is damage that needs to be repaired first.
On the whole, professional fees for painting alloy wheels are about $130 each. The paint quality and technician experience matter so choose a shop wisely.
What Types of Rims Can Be Painted?
The majority of rims that come on new cars these days are made from aluminum alloy. These rims can be painted, and the paint will adhere to them just fine. Steel rims can also be painted, but they will need to be primed first. The type of paint you use will also be different for steel rims. You will need to use a special primer that is made for steel.
Some rims are made from chrome. These rims can be painted, but the paint will not adhere to them as well as it does with aluminum or steel. The paint will also chip and peel more easily. If you decide to paint chrome rims, be sure to use high-quality latex metal paint or automotive enamel paint. Alternatively you can consider rechroming your rims.
The Process of The Shop Who Paints Rims Near Me
A professional wheel painting shop will:
- Inspect your wheel or damage, get your spec like paint color finish type, etc, and provide you a quote for the price and timeline.
- Dismount the tire from the vehicle. This is to better protect the vehicle from overspary. Some shops remove tires from the rim, while others tape off the tire.
- Clean the wheel and inspect it for damage. Any damage to the wheel needs to be fixed before applying paint.
- Sandown the surface and apply primer. Primer helps the paint stick to the rim.
- Select the appropriate type of paint based on the metal of your wheel. Then spray the wheel with multiple thin layers of paint. A pro shop will apply anywhere from 3 to 5 coats.
- Inspect the wheel for missing areas, low dips in coverage, or drips and blemishes.
- Apply any correction to the job to make it look smooth and even across all surface areas.
- Apply a clear coat, which helps prevent chipping and fading.
The entire process usually takes about 2-3 hours.
Pro Paint Shop Sanding an Alloy Wheel
How to Paint Your Rims Yourself
If you decide to paint your car rims yourself, be sure to purchase the appropriate supplies. You will need primer, paint, and a clear coat. You will also need sandpaper and a clean surface to work on. Paint pens or a small brush can also be helpful for tight corners and crevices, but a spray can of automotive paint should be used for most of the wheel.
If you decide to paint the rims yourself, you can purchase a kit at most auto parts stores. The kit will include all of the necessary supplies, including primer, paint, and a clear coat.
Cost and Time Estimate to Paint Rims Yourself
A DIY paint job on your wheels ranges from $30 to $100. This is dependent on the quality and quantity of the materials used. While cheaper than a pro, the time takes about 1.5x longer ranging in the 3 to 4-hour range.
DIY Process for Painting Your Rims
Take the Tire Off and Fix any Issues
It is easier to paint your rims with the tire off. First, you should inspect your rim for any flaws, dings, and dents. If there are any imperfections, the paint will not hide them. They may look worse once painted. So fix any issues with the wheel before painting.
Sand and Wash
Next, you need to sand down the current surface. You should do several iterations of sanding starting with a heavier paper and getting finer as you go. I like to wash the rims with soap and water to remove any debris that is left over from sanding. Then I dry the wheel off with a towel.
Apply Primer
After sanding you need to apply coat(s) of primer according to the directions on the paint. Primer will help the actual paint stick to the wheel. Let the primer dry completely before applying paint.
Apply Paint
When painting your car rims, be sure to follow the directions on the paint can. You need to choose the paint based on the type of material your wheel is made out of.
Apply several thin coats of paint, rather than one thick coat. This will help prevent runs and sagging. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next, usually 10-15 minutes.
Apply Clear Coat
Once the paint is dry and to a thickness you like, apply a clear coat to protect the paint job. This will also help to give the rims a high-gloss finish. Allow the clear coat to dry completely before driving the car.
Alternatives to Painting Wheels
There are 2 common alternatives to paint to add a protective layer: Powder coating and Plasti-Dip.
Powder Coating vs Paint
Powder coating is a process where powder paint is applied to the surface and then baked on. The result is a harder, more durable finish.
Paint will chip and fade over time, while powder coating will not. Powder coating can also be done in any color, whereas paint is limited to colors that are already mixed. Paint can also be done at home with a kit, while powder coating should be done by a professional.
Powder coating is the better option if you are looking for durability and a long-lasting finish. Paint is a more budget-friendly option and can be done at home, but it will not last as long.
Plasti-Dip vs Paint
Plast-Dip is a process where a latex like product is sprayed on the wheel. The result is a soft finish resembling paint.
Plasti-Dip can scuff more easily then paint, but it’s much easier to take on and off and fix issues. Plasti-Dip comes in a variety of colors and you can create unique looks and gradients, whereas paint is going to be one uniform color. Like paint, Plasti-Dip can be done at home with a kit and is much easier to apply then paint.
Plasti-Dip is relatively cheap and easy to spray on and peel off. You can find professional shops who dip rims.
The Pros and Cons of Painting Your Rims
Paint Pros:
- Paint is a budget-friendly option.
- Paint can be done at home with a kit.
- Paint comes in a wide range of colors.
Paint Cons:
- Paint will chip, flake, and fade over time.
- Paint needs to be reapplied every few years.
- Paint will ding, scratch, and nic, fairly easily when hit hard enough by road debris, rocks, or a curb.
- Difficult to get a good even coat in corners and small holes.
Consider Getting Clipers Painted at the Same Time
If you have thought about getting your calipers painted, it may makes sense to get them done, while the rims are off. Some shops will offer a discount to perform both services. Since the wheels are already off the vehicle, your brake calipers are easier to paint at this time.
Choosing a Shop Who Paints Rims Near Me
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a shop who paints rims near me.
First, you want to make sure that the shop has experience painting rims. You don’t want your rims to be the first they’ve ever painted. Look for a pro-wheel shop and not a standard auto paint shop.
Second, you want to see examples of their work. Ask to see pictures of rims they have painted. I like to read reviews on Yelp and Google Business. Look for customers who have posted their own before and after photos.
Third, you want to make sure they use high-quality paint and primer. This will help ensure that your rims look good and last longer. Also, inquire about their finishing options for gloss or matte.
Finally, you want to get a quote from the shop for both costs and turnaround time. Paint jobs can range in price, so you want to make sure you are getting a fair price and your rims back quickly.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Shop Who Paints Rims Near Me
- How much experience do you have with painting rims?
- Can I see examples of your work?
- What kind of paint and primer do you use?
- What are my finish options (gloss or matte)?
- How much will it cost?
- Will you fix any wheel damage first?
- When can I expect to get my rims back?
- What kind of paint would you suggest based on the metal type of my rim?
- Do you provide any guarantees of your work?
Who Paints Rims Near Me – Conclusion
Painting your rims is a great way to change the look of your car without spending a lot of money. You can choose any color you want and paint them yourself with a kit, or you can have them professionally painted. Powder coating is another option, but it is more expensive and should be done by a professional.
When choosing a shop to paint your rims, make sure they have experience painting rims and look at examples of their work. Be sure to ask about the type of paint and primer they use, as well as the finish options. Get a quote for both cost and turnaround time before hiring a shop. That’s what I have learned from the places who paint rims near me.