What is the best way to fix a scratch on a rim?
 

I noticed that there is a scratch (about 5-6 inches) along the edge of my right front rim, right there where it meets the tire. Since I'm very careful and am sure I never hit any curb or did this damage myself, I'm thinking it must have happened in a carwash where they drive the car between these tracks that then moves it forward. The dude who moved the car must not have been careful, didn't aim properly and hit the thing with the rim I suppose.

The scratch is really not too bad, but it bugs me. I was wondering: how can I repair this myself? These rims are painted as far as I know - can I use some really fine grit sandpaper (maybe wet sanding) to smooth out the scratched surface and then touch it up? What would be a good paint to do this and how do I match the color?

Can anybody give me some ideas about this repair?

Thanks.

Re: What is the best way to fix a scratch on a rim?
 

The RX-8 silver touch up paint is what I used per recommendation on the forum (try searching). I used a dremel tool to sand it down - it looks much better and the paint matches exactly.

rx8cited

my car came with a free wheel and tire insurance package direct from mazda...didn't anyone else receive this free package too? they said they'd replace any damaged wheel or tire no questions

i got the tire insurance but they never mentioned anything about the wheels being replaced. i scratched both of mine on the left . iam going to get out my policy, its in the glove box, and check it out. i am glad i readthis post.

i thought i was the only one, the passenger side (back) rim somehow mysteriously has scratches around the edge where it meets the tires (1/3 of the circumference). u can't see it at first glance, however, once u focus or get closer or kneel down, it's pretty obvious. (i think i did it at a drive thru some time ago, had heard a scraping sound once but thought it wasn't me). anyway, how much is the cost (estimate) to buy the equipments and paint required to fix it?

Re: Re: What is the best way to fix a scratch on a rim?
 

Is it the same as the silver exterior touch up paint? Did you clear coat it after?

Re: Re: Re: What is the best way to fix a scratch on a rim?
 

Yes ..... no - it looks fine without the clear coat.

i got that insurance too :D its great jaja

how do you know if you got the insurance?

Doesn't the insurance just covers damage to the tires, not the rims itself?

there is the problem hand wash it yourself next time man problem solved

Uhhhh, ya, right - hopefully that lesson has been learned! But this problem can results from incidents besides carwashes like getting too friendly with a curb :).

rx8cited