So I hit a curb and scratched a wheel. Can a tire shop fix this or sand it down when I get new tires in the future? How else to minimize the cosmetic damage?

 

The short answer is yes, but it depends on the extent of the damage. If we're talking about just a little "curb rash," a good tire or body shop should be able to repair the damage (sand it down) and re-paint the wheel rim to make it look good as new. I need to do that myself when I replace tires, as the previous owner left me a few insidious reminders of his careless parking skills...

However, if you really bashed into a curb and bent the rim, that's another matter entirely... That would probably require replacement of the rim.

 

I would try this if it were my rim.



Under wheel detailing section - incl paint for MINI wheels.

http://www.bavauto.com/shop.asp

 

I did the same thing with my Cayman S. Before I traded it in on a new ride I stopped by a body shop. They had if fixed in no time flat for around $70. As an aside, it was money well spent as this is something dealership check for on trade-ins.

 

yup usually easy fixes for wheel guys..

around Columbus here there is a company called Wheel Medic who comes to you with thier trucks and can fix about anything

 

I was at a dealer a while back and they have a special going on, $125 for each wheel, paint and filling the rash. Good to know, got 1 curbed wheel in my garage.

 

I think it's a little high myself, my brother took his set in to Fast Forward Wheels and they quoted him $450 on the whole set, curb rash fixed, minor bends and fully finished!!!! I think this was a cash price though...