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Best Wheel Paints

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Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Krylon Automotive Wheel Paint
Krylon
Automotive Wheel Paint
Trusted Brand

Trusted product that restores your tires' appearance while providing ongoing scratch protection.

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Trusted Brand
Bottom Line

Trusted product that restores your tires' appearance while providing ongoing scratch protection.

Pros

This long-lasting product safeguards your brakes against dust and debris, all while withstanding fading, chipping, and corrosion caused by weather. Offered in many different colors that can match any vehicle you have.

Cons

Has a very strong chemical smell.

Best Bang for the Buck
Chemical Guys Vinyl, Rubber and Plastic Shine  Dressing for Tires
Chemical Guys
Vinyl, Rubber and Plastic Shine Dressing for Tires
Simple Yet Solid

This interior and exterior gel can be used to give your tires, side paneling, or even the dashboards of your vehicle a facelift.

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Simple Yet Solid
Bottom Line

This interior and exterior gel can be used to give your tires, side paneling, or even the dashboards of your vehicle a facelift.

Pros

This cream-based product safeguards against fading and cracking caused by the sun's ultraviolet rays. This formula isn't greasy, dries quickly, and can be used on tires, plastic hubcaps, and vinyl interior to enhance appearance.

Cons

Requires reapplication after heavy rainfall.

Dupli-Color Metallic High Performance Wheel Paint
Dupli-Color
Metallic High Performance Wheel Paint
Most Versatile

An authority in all kinds of car paint delivers a high level of quality with this product.

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Most Versatile
Bottom Line

An authority in all kinds of car paint delivers a high level of quality with this product.

Pros

Offered in 6 different colors. Resists scratches and nicks, while also guarding nicely against rust. Durable product that works on rims, as well as hubcaps, car grilles, and motorcycles. Application process is extremely easy, so you can finish the job in a short amount of time.

Cons

Color may not quite match what's shown with the cap of the can.

Dupli-Color Scratch Fix All-in-1 Touch-Up Paint
Dupli-Color
Scratch Fix All-in-1 Touch-Up Paint
Easiest to Use

This pocket-sized touch-up product is perfect to keep in your glove box for quick repairs on the go.

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Easiest to Use
Bottom Line

This pocket-sized touch-up product is perfect to keep in your glove box for quick repairs on the go.

Pros

This "dark shadow gray" touch-up pen assists in covering scratches, nicks, and small chips in paint. The coarse tip preps the area by removing dust and dirt and there is a brush for larger marks. This formula is a combination of paint and primer to cut your restoration time in half.

Cons

Have to match each color directly with your manufacturer.

VHT Gloss Black Wheel Paint
VHT
Gloss Black Wheel Paint
Most Stylish

Costs a little more than some others, but it'll give your tires a high level of protection.

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Most Stylish
Bottom Line

Costs a little more than some others, but it'll give your tires a high level of protection.

Pros

Manufacturer is well known for providing paints that resist high temperatures, but this product also protects against other tough materials, like salt, sand abrasion, and brake dust. Will also help the surface avoid rust problems. Works well for all vehicle types.

Cons

Slightly smaller spray can size than others, so price per ounce is higher.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

First Reviewed
November 30, 2021
54
Models
considered
26
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researched
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Buying guide for Best wheel paints

Jennifer Manfrin
Written by Jennifer Manfrin

Updated April 2022

Are you looking for an affordable way to give your vehicle a fresh look? Sprucing up your wheels with a coat of wheel paint is an easy way to make your car or truck look like new and also protect your wheels from damage.

With so many wheel paints on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. You’ll need to decide on the color, finish, and other features to find the right wheel paint for your vehicle.

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A versatile wheel paint can also refresh other metal components on your vehicle, such as the grills and trim.

Benefits of wheel paint

Wheel paint is an aerosol paint specially formulated for automobile wheels. Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits of using wheel paint.

  • Wheel paint is an affordable way to make your wheels look like new.

  • A coat of wheel paint revitalizes your wheel’s metal surfaces.

  • Wheel paint minimizes chips and other minor imperfections.

  • Wheel paint also protects from future damage, such as rust and knicks from harsh weather and poor road conditions.

  • Wheel paint is an attractive enhancement that pairs nicely with other modifications or restorations of your vehicle.

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Expert Tip
Are the surfaces of your wheels still in rough shape even after you sand them? If using sandpaper isn’t enough, have your wheels sandblasted by a professional before you apply wheel paint for the smoothest results.
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Wheel paint features

Consider these features when shopping for wheel paint to find the best option for your vehicle.

Color

Silver is the most popular choice for wheel paint, but it’s not your only option. Other shades, such as black, are available for custom looks.

Finish

Whether you like a flat, satin, or high-gloss look, there is a wheel paint finish to fit your preference. The best finish will complement your vehicle’s paint job and other features. For a dramatic look, choose a finish that contrasts with your vehicle.

Versatility

Some wheel paints are also suitable for painting other auto parts, including hub caps and other metal accessories. This versatility is ideal if you are updating more than just the appearance of your vehicle’s wheels.

Brand

Wheel paint is specialized paint that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, which means quality is important. Look for a wheel paint from a trusted brand with a reputation for quality results and longevity.

Value

Some wheel paints are available in value packs with multiple cans. You can also find kits with a wheel paint and a clear coat for added value. These bundles can make painting your vehicle’s wheels more affordable, especially for customers who need more than just a few cans. It’s important to keep in mind that the amount of paint you need depends on several factors, such as wheel size, the level of damage, and your finish preferences.

Price

Wheel paint varies in price, with standard 12-ounce cans ranging from $5 to $20. For the best results, it’s worth investing in wheel paint from well-known brands.

"Allow wheel paint to dry thoroughly before hitting the road to keep your paint job intact and looking its best. Dry time depends on various factors, such as weather conditions and the number of coats you applied."
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Applying wheel paint

You can simply spray your wheels with wheel paint, but you’re unlikely to get a good result without proper preparation. Let’s take a look at the other items you’ll need for a professional application.

Degreasing cleaner

Start with clean wheels for smoother, longer-lasting results. A degreasing cleaner does a good job of removing the grease buildup that’s common on vehicle wheels.

Sandpaper

Sanding your wheels before you start, and in between primer coats, will help wheel paint adhere smoothly. It will also buff away minor imperfections and make your wheel surfaces look sleek and new.

Primer

You don’t have to use a primer, but applying at least one coat before you paint your wheels will go a long way toward producing a perfect finish. Many people use more than one primer. Filler primer is a good option for filling in imperfections.

Cloths

Having cloths or towels on hand is helpful for cleaning up during the often messy wheel painting process. Tack cloths are particularly useful because they are ideal for removing particles on wheels that could cause bumps in the painted finish.

Clear coat

You don’t have to apply a clear coat after painting your wheels, but it’s a good idea. A clear coat seals and protects your paint job. And a clear coat is necessary if you want a glossy finish.

Safety items

Wheel paint contains chemicals that can harm your skin, eyes, or even lungs if inhaled. Proper safety accessories will provide protection while you paint your wheels. Protective glasses, gloves, and masks are key.

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Did you know?
For the best results, use one or more primers before you apply wheel paint. Wheels with knicks and chips will benefit from a filler primer in addition to a regular primer.
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Tips

  • Spray wheel paint using a continuous, side-to-side sweeping motion. This is the best way to apply wheel paint evenly to create a seamless, professional look.

  • Take eye protection seriously. A typical pair of glasses isn’t enough to protect your eyes when using wheel paint. Slipping on a pair of goggles designed for working with potentially dangerous chemicals or tools will provide the best protection.

  • Invest in quality sandpaper. Because preparing your wheels’ surfaces is important for achieving smooth, even results, sandpaper is a vital tool. Opt for a coarse grit – 350 or lower – for the best results.

  • Don’t underestimate the importance of clean surfaces. If you don’t properly remove dirt, dust, and grease from your wheels before you paint, a uniform finish is impossible.

  • Have several pairs of disposable gloves and masks on hand. Since you may have to change your gloves or mask several times during the painting process, it’s a good idea to be prepared with plenty of extras.

  • Allow painted wheels to dry thoroughly in between coats. This will ensure that you get a smooth, even finish.

  • Follow instructions carefully. Not only is wheel paint highly flammable and pressurized, but it contains harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your eyes, nose, lungs, and skin. Before you paint your wheels, read the instructions on the wheel paint thoroughly, and follow all the listed precautions.

  • Check the weather. If you plan to paint outdoors, weather conditions like high humidity or wind could result in a rough finish or slow down dry times.
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The longevity of wheel paint varies depending on your climate and the road surfaces where you drive. However, taking the time to sand, prime, and apply a clear coat will help wheel paint last longer.

FAQ

Q. What’s the best way to paint wheels with a lot of grooves and crevices?

A. These types of wheels are the most challenging to paint, but it can be done effectively. Start by spraying the wheel paint directly into the small, tight spaces in the wheels, and then allow it to dry. Next, spray the paint over the entire surface of the wheel. Using this method will ensure that you don’t miss any of the tiny crevices in your wheels.

Q. What types of metal can I paint with wheel paint?

A. Although an extremely durable metal like steel works best with wheel paint, most formulas are suitable for use on other common metals and finishes, such as chrome and aluminum.

Q. How can I protect my tires from overspray when using wheel paint?

A. Ideally, it’s best to paint your wheels with the tires removed. However, if this isn’t possible, applying a tire gel or silicone gloss first will stop the wheel paint from sticking to the tires. Some savvy gearheads have also used hacks like loose paper or pieces of cardboard stuck between the wheels and the tires to catch excess paint.

Q. I plan to paint my wheels outside this summer. Do I really need to wear a mask since ventilation won’t be an issue?

A. Due to the caustic chemicals in wheel paint, you should always wear a face mask when applying it. A face mask provides protection from the aerosol products that are released into the air when using wheel paint, regardless of the ventilation.

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