How to Paint Alloy Wheels (Scratch Repair & Colour Guide)
How Do You Paint Alloy Wheels? Step-by-Step Guide & Popular Colours
Painting alloy wheels is one of the fastest ways to transform the look of any car. Whether your wheels are scratched, faded, or you simply want a fresh style, the process is easier than most people think — and you can do it at home with the right products.
At scratchrepaircar.co.uk, we stock high-quality alloy wheel paints in popular finishes including black, bronze, silver, and white. Here's everything you need to know.
“With years of experience in automotive touch-up and wheel restoration, we’ve helped thousands of customers get professional results at home.”

What You Need
- Alloy wheel paint (aerosol)
- Primer
- Masking tape & wheel cover
- Sandpaper (400–800 grit)
- Degreaser or panel wipe
- Clear coat for protection
Pro Tip: For the best durability, spray a 2K clear coat over the colour. It gives long-lasting shine and scratch resistance.
How to Paint Alloy Wheels (Step-By-Step)
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Clean & Degrease | Remove brake dust, dirt and grease for a smooth surface. |
| 2. Sand Lightly | Use fine sandpaper to key the surface and remove any flaking paint. |
| 3. Mask the Tyre | Cover the rubber and valve area to avoid overspray. |
| 4. Apply Primer | Light, even coats — allow each layer to dry. |
| 5. Spray Colour | 3–5 thin coats of alloy wheel paint, letting it flash off between sprays. |
| 6. Clear Coat | Finish with clear lacquer for gloss, protection, and durability. |
Most Popular Alloy Wheel Colours
Gloss Black
One of the most requested finishes. Gloss black gives wheels a deep, modern look that suits almost every car.
- Stealthy or sporty appearance
- Great on white, silver, grey & red cars
- Hides small imperfections well
Bronze Alloy Wheels
Bronze has become a huge trend in recent years. It gives a unique premium look without being too flashy.
- Perfect for sports, 4x4, and performance cars
- Stands out without looking over the top
- Works beautifully with black, white & grey bodywork
Silver / OEM Silver
The most classic finish — clean, bright and factory-fresh. Great for restoring damaged wheels.
- Matches original manufacturer colours
- Ideal for repairs and refurbishing
- Polished, subtle and timeless
White Alloy Wheels
White wheels give a bold, motorsport-style look — especially on hot hatches and tuner cars.
- Race-inspired appearance
- High contrast on darker cars
- Ideal for show cars and restorations
Should You DIY or Go Professional?
If your wheels are lightly scratched or you want a colour change, DIY alloy wheel paint is a fast, affordable solution. For deep kerb damage, cracks or corrosion, a professional refurb might be worth it.
Quick Tip: The key to a flawless finish is thin, even coats. Heavy spraying can cause runs and texture.
Final Thoughts
Painting alloy wheels is one of the simplest ways to refresh a car’s appearance. Black, bronze, silver and white are the most popular finishes for a reason — they’re timeless, stylish, and suit almost any vehicle.
You can find colour-matched, high-coverage wheel paints right here at scratchrepaircar.co.uk, along with primers, clear coats, and touch-up products for every repair.
