Chloe Zhang
Painting plastic rims is a great way to give your car a new look without spending a lot of money. It is a straightforward process that can be done at home with the right supplies and preparation. Whether you want to touch up old rims or add some personal style to your vehicle, this is a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to do so. You can use spray paint or Plasti Dip, a rubber-based coating that is easy to apply and remove and protects your rims from damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Painting Technique | Spray paint |
| Paint Type | Plasti Dip, Lexan paint, Pactra paint, Rit clothing dye, Primer, Basecoat, Clearcoat |
| Preparation | Clean rims with water, pressure wash, and all-purpose cleaner |
| Safety | Wear goggles and a respirator, ensure good ventilation, use jack stands and a floor jack to remove tires |
| Surface | Sand rims before painting, cover tires with tape and plastic |
| Finish | Matte or gloss finish, use spray gloss for added shine |
| Cost | DIY under $100, professional paint job costs hundreds of dollars |
| Time | Less than two hours, leave 5-15 minutes between coats |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the rims for painting
Clean the Rims
Start by thoroughly cleaning the rims to remove any dirt, oil, brake dust, or grease. Use an automotive cleaner or degreaser, and don't forget to pay extra attention to the nooks and crannies of the rims. A good wire brush or steel wool can be useful for removing stubborn dirt and grime. Once you're done cleaning, rinse off the cleaner and allow the rims to dry completely.
Remove Existing Paint
The next step is to remove any existing paint on the rims. You can do this by sanding, using a paint stripper, or sandblasting. Sanding is a manual process that involves using sandpaper to remove the old paint and create a smooth base for the new paint to adhere to. If you go down this route, start with coarse-grit sandpaper (around 300 grit) to remove the paint and any rough edges, scratches, or imperfections. Then, move to finer grit sandpaper (500 grit) to ensure the wheel is very smooth to the touch.
Alternatively, you can use a paint stripper to remove the paint, followed by scraping or sanding to smoothen the surface. For the best results, consider taking your wheels to a sandblasting facility, where they can professionally strip the paint and provide an excellent finish.
File and Sand the Rims
Once you've removed all the paint, file down any large or deep scratches, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Then, use sandpaper to remove all light and shallow blemishes. Start with 150-grit sandpaper and gradually increase the fineness to 300-grit and then 500-grit. The goal is to have a smooth surface, free of nicks, deep scratches, and other imperfections.
Mask the Tires and Surrounding Areas
If you're painting the rims while they're still attached to the car, it's essential to mask the tires and surrounding areas to avoid getting paint on them. Use masking tape and newspaper or painter's plastic to cover the entire tire and surrounding parts of the vehicle. Get as close to the edge of the rim as possible to prevent paint from bleeding onto the rubber.
Prime the Rims
Priming the rims is an essential step to ensure the paint sticks and lasts longer. Use a primer designed for metal surfaces, preferably an automotive primer. Shake the primer can for a minute or two, and then spray it in light, even coats. Hold the can about 8-12 inches from the rim to avoid thick, uneven coats. Allow the primer to dry and inspect the rims for any spots or scratches that may require additional sanding or priming.
Prepare Your Work Area
Before you start painting, set up your workspace in a well-ventilated area, preferably in a clean, open garage or outdoors in good weather. Put down a drop cloth to catch any paint overspray and ensure there are no children, animals, or other adults in the immediate area. Don't forget to wear proper protective gear, including goggles and a respirator, when working with spray paint.
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Choosing the right paint
Painting plastic rims can be a great DIY project, but choosing the right paint is crucial to achieving the desired results. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right paint for your plastic rims:
Type of Paint
Firstly, ensure you choose a paint specifically designed for automotive wheels. This is important because regular paint may not adhere properly to the plastic surface of the rims and could chip or peel off easily. Look for paints labelled as suitable for plastic rims or those with a multi-surface application, including plastic.
Primer and Top Coat
To ensure the paint job lasts long and has a smooth finish, using a primer is essential. Choose a self-etching primer, which will create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. A clear top coat is also recommended to protect the paint job and add shine.
Colour and Finish
The colour and finish of the paint are important considerations. If you want a classic look, black or silver are popular choices. For a more attention-grabbing style, consider a metallic finish or a bright colour. VHT offers a range of colours with a matte finish, while Dupli-Color has a highly reflective metallic finish in black.
Durability
Consider the durability of the paint, especially if the rims are exposed to harsh weather conditions or road debris. Look for paint that is crack, flake, and peel-resistant. Rust-Oleum, for example, offers a rust, corrosion, and weather-resistant formula, providing long-lasting protection for your rims.
Application Method
The application method of the paint is also important. Spray paint is generally the easiest and most efficient way to paint plastic rims, ensuring an even coat. Choose a spray paint with an adjustable nozzle for better control during application.
Preparation
Before painting, ensure the rims are thoroughly cleaned and prepared. Remove any old paint, grease, or dirt using a paint stripper, degreaser, or wire brush. This step will ensure the new paint adheres properly and creates a smooth finish.
By considering these factors and selecting a paint that suits your specific needs, you can achieve a professional-looking paint job on your plastic rims.
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Applying the paint
When it comes to applying the paint, there are several methods you can use. One popular method is to use Plasti Dip, a rubber-based coating that protects your rims from damage and can transform their colour and appearance. Plasti Dip is easy to apply and remove, and it dries with a matte finish. Before you start, ensure you are wearing protective gear, including goggles and a respirator, as the Plasti Dip will create fumes that could be harmful if inhaled. Heat the can of Plasti Dip before you begin, as this will make the spray more consistent and prevent bubbles or air pockets from forming on your rims. Hold the can about 6 inches (15 cm) away from the rim and use short bursts to apply the Plasti Dip, working your way around the rim and spraying between the gaps to coat the inside as well. Aim for about 50% coverage with your first coat, which should dry within 5-15 minutes. Once the first coat is dry, touch it to see if it feels tacky, and then apply the second coat.
If you want a glossier finish, you can add a coat of spray gloss on top of the Plasti Dip. Hold the can of gloss about 6 inches (15 cm) away from the rim and spray it on in short bursts, ensuring even coverage across all areas. Allow the gloss to dry for at least 20-30 minutes, and apply additional layers if you want a shinier finish.
Another method for painting plastic rims involves using a primer, basecoat, and clear coat. Start by shaking the primer can and spraying it on paper to test the smoothness. Then, hold the primer can about one foot away from the wheel and spray it on, focusing on the corners and edges. Allow the primer to dry for about 20 minutes, and then apply a second coat using the same technique. Once the primer coats are dry, shake the basecoat can and test it on paper before spraying it onto your wheels, again focusing on the corners and edges.
If you want added protection and gloss, you can finish with a clear coat. This step is optional but will enhance the durability and lifespan of your paint job.
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Adding a clear coat
Prepare the Workspace:
It is important to work in a well-ventilated area to ensure your safety when working with spray paint. Set up your workspace in a clean, open garage or outdoors in your yard, ensuring plenty of fresh air. Place a drop cloth on the ground to catch any overspray and protect the surrounding areas. Make sure to plan your project for a day with favourable weather conditions, avoiding extremely windy or rainy days.
Clean and Prepare the Rims:
Before painting, thoroughly clean your rims to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. You can use a hose with a pressure washer attachment or a wheel-based cleaner to ensure a thorough clean. Once the rims are dry, use sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections and create a uniform surface. The roughness of the sandpaper can vary depending on the condition of your rims; finer sandpaper is suitable for rims in good shape.
Tape and Cover:
Use painter's tape and plastic to cover the tires and protect them from paint. You can also tape newspaper around the tires for added protection. Be sure to cover any aluminium parts, including the veins of the rim, centre stripes, and lug nut holes.
Apply the Clear Coat:
Shake the can of clear coat spray for a minute or so to ensure the contents are well mixed. Test spray on a separate surface, then apply light, even coats to the rims. Spray left to right on the gaps and up and down on the centre stripes. Ensure you get coverage on the inside of the rims as well. Allow adequate time for drying between coats, typically 5-10 minutes. Three to four coats should provide sufficient coverage, and then allow the final coat to dry for about 30 minutes in a sunny spot.
Remove Tape and Covers:
Once the final coat has dried completely, carefully remove the tape and plastic covers from your tires. Use your fingernail to gently lift the edge of the tape, slowly peeling it off. Reach between the rims to remove the plastic covers from the brakes.
Additional Tips:
If you desire a glossier finish, you can add a coat of spray gloss to your rims. Hold the can of gloss 6 inches (15 cm) away from the rim and spray in short bursts, ensuring even coverage. Allow the gloss to dry for at least 20-30 minutes before considering additional coats.
Additionally, always read the instructions on your chosen products and work within the recommended recoat times to ensure optimal results.
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Drying and finishing
Once you have applied the paint, be it a primer, basecoat, or clear coat, you will need to let it dry. The drying time will vary depending on the type of paint you use. For example, if you use Plasti Dip, you should let the first coat dry for 5–15 minutes. Touch an inconspicuous spot on the rims to see if the coat feels tacky. If it does, it is not dry. If you are applying a primer coat, you should wait 20 minutes until it is dry, and then reapply.
After the paint has dried, you may wish to add a coat of spray gloss if you don't want a matte finish. Hold the can of gloss 6 inches (15 cm) away from the rim and spray it on in short bursts, ensuring even coverage. Allow the gloss to dry for at least 20–30 minutes. You only need one coat of gloss, but you can apply additional layers if you want a shinier finish.
When the paint is completely dry, remove the tape and plastic covers from your tires. Use your fingernail to peel the edge of the tape off the wheel after your final layer of paint or gloss finish is dry. Slowly peel off the tape around your rims to completely remove it. Reach in between the rims to pull the plastic covers from your brakes.
If you are painting all four rims, it is recommended to do so in a day. It is also important to ensure good ventilation and to work in an area free of children, animals, and other adults.
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Frequently asked questions
The easiest way to paint plastic rims is to use Plasti Dip, a rubber-based coating that can transform the colour and appearance of your rims. It applies smoothly, dries quickly, and is easy to remove.
Before you start, make sure you are wearing goggles and a respirator to protect yourself from the fumes. Hold the can 6 inches (15 cm) away from the rim and use short bursts to apply the Plasti Dip, working your way around the rim. Aim for 50% coverage with your first coat, and let it dry for 5-15 minutes. Once the first coat is dry, you can apply additional layers as needed.
Yes, it is important to clean your rims thoroughly before painting them to remove any debris or dust. You should also consider sanding your rims to get rid of any imperfections. Additionally, make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area and cover the tires with tape and plastic to protect them from paint.
If you want a glossy finish, you can add a coat of spray gloss on top of your Plasti Dip. Hold the can 6 inches (15 cm) away from the rim and spray it on in short bursts, making sure to cover all areas evenly. Let the gloss dry for at least 20-30 minutes before removing the tape and plastic covers from your tires.
