How to fix an alloy wheel with a curb

A set of smart alloy wheels makes a huge difference to the look of your car. However, keeping them smart can be tricky because it's too easy to scratch them on curbs when you're parking. The good news is that bringing them back to their former glory is surprisingly easy and inexpensive.

First, a disclaimer: If your alloy wheel has any cracks or large dents, you should take it to a professional as these could be a safety issue. However, if the curb damage is minor, repairing an alloy wheel is not as difficult as you might think. A wide range of DIY repair kits are available that contain everything you need including sandpaper, filler, primer and paint. Using them may seem like a bit of a dark art, but it's very easy if you follow the instructions.

Preparation, of course, is very important. Sanding the damaged area takes time, but it's important to make sure the end result is as smooth and effective as possible. After sanding the area, you will need to fill in the remaining gap, usually using the putty that is included in the kit. After filling, you need to leave this medicine.

The next step is critical - you need to carefully sand the putty to keep the wheel rim even and smooth. Take your time and regularly take a step back and look at the wheel as a whole to make sure everything looks good.

When you are happy with the job, you need to apply a coat of primer. Not only will this give a good base for the paint, but it will also highlight any scratches or dents you may have missed, which means you can go back and give those areas more attention before painting. It may take a few tries, but if you're hoping for a showroom finish, you need to do this.

Once everything is dry, it's time to paint. This is best done in multiple coats, giving each one enough time and allowing it to dry before reapplying. If you apply the paint too thickly, there is a good chance that it will run and you will have to start the process again. Once you're happy with the paintwork, let it dry and then top off with a coat of varnish. This will give it a factory look and help protect all your good work.

Once refurbished, a set of scuff-free alloy wheels will not only improve the look of your vehicle, but also improve its value. A set of shiny, new alloy wheels will make your car more desirable and can greatly increase its trade-in value.

Every Cazoo vehicle goes through a rigorous 300-point test before being listed on our website, so you can be sure every part, including the alloy wheels, is in the best possible condition before you buy it.

Kazoo Service Centers provide a great way to keep your car in good condition by offering a wide range of services including MOT, maintenance and repair, whether you bought your car through Cazoo or not. We also offer a free safety check, checking tires, fluid levels, headlights and brakes to make sure everything is in full working order.

Request booking, simply select the service center closest to you and enter your vehicle's registration number.