An Ultimate Guide On How To Fix Curb Rash On Rims - Tireer

Although it seems like a minor inconvenience, curb rash can transform into a significant problem if not addressed promptly. But what exactly is curb rash, and why should you concern yourself with it?

1. What is Curb Rash?

Curb rash is a term used in automotive circles. It describes various blemishes on the car's wheels or rims caused by scraping or hitting them against a curb or another hard surface. It is a common occurrence on wheels that spend most of their time in urban driving scenarios.

Most often, it happens during parallel parking, where the driver can't really see whether the wheels are touching the curb or not. However, it can also happen when taking tight corners or driving too close to the curb when cornering.

Fortunately, in most cases, curb rash is a cosmetic issue that won't affect the performance or safety of the vehicle. Nonetheless, I would still check the rim after scraping or hitting it because more severe damage can lead to more serious problems, like, for example, a quick tire pressure loss.

2. The Impacts of Curb Rash on Your Vehicle

Minor curb rash is only a cosmetic issue that won't affect the performance of the wheel. In other words, the wheel will keep its structural rigidity, and the rim will still hold the tire strongly to ensure no air is escaping from inside. Also, minor scratches usually don't affect the protective coating, so the wheel should still be resistant to oxidation or rust.

However, that is not to say that it won't impact your wallet. Every minor scratch on the wheels can significantly decrease the resale value of your vehicle. Prospective buyers often consider the condition of the wheels as an indication of how well the vehicle has been maintained and will use the curb rash to get a higher discount.

With that said, deeper scratches or gouges can penetrate the wheel/rim further and cut through the protective coating. As a result, the underlying metal will be exposed to the elements, making it more susceptible to rust (steel wheels) or oxidation (alloys). The issue is more prevalent among cheaper rims, but nonetheless, it can deteriorate the structural integrity of the wheel, causing serious safety issues.

Additionally, if the curb rash is deep enough to affect the wheel's shape or balance, it could potentially impact driving dynamics. It could lead to an uneven ride, increased tire wear, or in extreme cases, a blowout.

Fortunately, there is a silver lining to curb rash – it can be repaired. Unlike other types of damage to the wheels, like cracks or bending, curb rash can be repaired 95% of the time. In most cases, you can even do the repairs yourself, using products that are readily available online.

Assessing the Damage

Want to tackle the curb rash yourself? Well, before you do that, it would be smart to asses the extent of the damage, i.e., whether it is minor and superficial or a deep gouge that can affect the strength of the wheel.

And there is no better way to start than by cleaning the wheels. I highly recommend using special wheel/rim cleaners, as they have special detergents that can remove all dirt, grime, and brake dust, ensuring that you have a clear view of the damage. Once you finish cleaning each wheel, dry the wheel with a soft and clean cloth.

Remember, the wheels are constantly in contact with all those contaminants, which build up over time and can't be removed with a simple car wash.

Now, kneel down before their majesty, your wheels, and look for any areas where the metal may be exposed or where the wheel's shape might be compromised. If you notice any significant indentations, deep scratches, gouges, or deformed areas, this could indicate more serious damage. However, small and shallow scratches are only cosmetic issue that is easy to tackle and repair.

1. Identifying Minor vs. Major Curb Rash