Your wheels can be one of the most expensive things on your car to repair. However, many people tend to think of flat tires more often than their rims. Your car’s rims aren’t just a nice aesthetic—if you’re not careful, damaged rims can also lead to damaged wheels. Learn how to prevent rims with curb rash or scratches with our helpful tips.
Avoid Potholes
Potholes can damage a number of parts on your car, including your rims. Hitting a pothole can cause rim scratches, curb rash, and even bent rims, which could damage the tire itself. Be mindful of your surroundings when you’re on the road, especially right after the winter months, when potholes tend to be the most abundant.
Wash Your Rims
Many car owners get regular car washes, but some forget about the importance of washing their rims. Making sure your rims remain clean is important for your car’s overall aesthetic and value. You can clean your rims simply by using a cloth to wipe the rims down or by using a rim cleaning option at your local car wash.
Be Aware of Curbs
You also want to be careful when parallel parking against any curbs, which may be the number one cause of curb rash. Parallel parking is a skill many people struggle to perfect—the key is making sure you leave enough (but not too much) room between your car’s wheels and the curb.
Try Wheel Rim Protectors
If you’re really worried about damaging your rims, consider investing in wheel rim protectors. Costing as little as $20, these blades are inexpensive and can be placed right on the rims of your prized vehicle for added protection.
How to Fix Your Rims
If you do find yourself in a situation where you have to repair rims with curb rash or scratches, don’t worry. Scratch Wizard offers alloy and hypersilver wheel repair kits that will revive your vehicle’s rims. These automotive wheel paint kits come with all the essentials you need, such as sandpaper, paint, sprayer, primer, coating, and a sprayer.
AAA’s Your Driving Costs found that the average cost to own and operate a new vehicle in 2018 was $8,849 per year. Knowing how to prevent rims with curb rash or scratches by caring for your car will not only keep it looking sharp, but also save you a lot of money in the long run.
