Alloy Wheel Painting in Tyne and Wear

Painting alloy wheels can restore tired ones or change the look of the whole car. The finished appearance owes more to preparation than to the paint itself.

This page looks at the painted finish: choosing colour and sheen, and what the process involves. Repairing damage and other finishes are covered elsewhere.

Choosing colour and finish

Many people ask for the original silver or grey, while others want something new, such as black or a bronze shade. Finish matters as much as colour, as it changes how the wheel looks and how easily it shows dirt.

• Gloss, which is bright and reflective
• Satin, a softer sheen that many find hides brake dust better
• Matt, a flat look that shows marks differently
• Colour match to the original, if the wheels are being restored
• A new colour for a change of style

What the process involves

The old finish, dirt and brake dust are cleaned off and any corrosion or damage is dealt with. The wheel is then keyed or stripped, primed, painted in layers and usually protected with a clear coat. Each stage needs time to dry or cure properly before the next.

The tyre is usually taken off so the whole wheel can be painted evenly, including the edge near the rim. At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we explain the steps for your wheels at the estimate.

What affects the result

Preparation quality is the biggest factor. Paint over corrosion or flaking lacquer will fail, so the surface has to be sound. The condition of the wheel, the finish you want and whether damage needs repairing first all change the work involved.

Colour matching depends on the original and on how much it has faded. A close match is the aim, but we cannot promise an exact one.

Looking after painted wheels

Give fresh paint time to harden before heavy cleaning, and check with us about when it is safe to wash. Afterwards, use gentle wheel cleaners rather than harsh acidic ones, and rinse brake dust off regularly.

Kerb strikes can still chip any finish, so a little care when parking helps it last. If you would like a harder-wearing option, ask us what alternatives suit your wheels.