Curb Rash Repair: What It Costs, How It Works, and When to DIY vs. Go Pro

You backed into a curb. Or maybe you got a little too close to a concrete parking block. Either way, your wheel now has that ugly scrape — curb rash. Before you panic about replacement costs, let’s talk about what curb rash repair actually involves, what it costs, and whether you can handle it yourself.

What Is Curb Rash, Exactly?

Curb rash is surface damage on the outer lip or face of a wheel, caused by contact with a curb or other hard surface. It typically shows up as scuffs, scratches, or gouges in the finish. On painted wheels, you’ll see bare metal showing through. On machined or polished wheels, the damage disrupts the smooth surface.

The good news: most curb rash is cosmetic. It doesn’t affect structural integrity unless the impact was severe enough to crack or bend the wheel.

Curb Rash Repair Cost: What to Expect

Repair costs vary based on the wheel type, severity of damage, and finish:

• Light scuffs on painted wheels: $75–$150 per wheel
• Moderate damage with gouges: $150–$300 per wheel
• Machined or diamond-cut wheels: $200–$400 per wheel (requires lathe work)
• Chrome wheels: $300–$500+ per wheel (strip and re-plate)

At Best Wheel Repair, we provide free estimates and transparent pricing. No surprise charges — you know the cost before we start.

Can You DIY Curb Rash Repair?

For minor scuffs on painted wheels, a DIY approach can work. You’ll need sandpaper (220 to 600 grit), primer, matching wheel paint, and clear coat. Total cost: $30–$60 in materials.

Here’s the honest truth, though: DIY repairs are visible up close. The color match is rarely perfect, and without proper surface prep, the repair won’t last. If your wheels are factory machined or chrome-finished, DIY is not recommended — you’ll likely make it worse.

When to Go Pro

• Damage deeper than surface scratches (you can feel it with your fingernail)
• Machined, polished, or chrome wheels
• Multiple wheels damaged (volume pricing makes professional repair more cost-effective)
• You plan to sell the vehicle (professional repair adds resale value)
• The wheel has structural damage alongside the curb rash

How Professional Curb Rash Repair Works

At our Anaheim facility, here’s the typical process:

1. Assessment: We inspect the damage and identify the wheel finish type
2. Surface prep: Sand and fill gouges with specialized filler
3. Refinishing: Apply primer, color-matched paint or machining, then clear coat
4. Quality check: Inspect under multiple lighting conditions
5. Turnaround: Most repairs completed in 1–2 business days

Curb Rash vs. Wheel Damage: Know the Difference

Curb rash is surface-level. But if you hit a curb hard enough, you may also have:

• Bent rim: Causes vibration at highway speeds. Requires wheel straightening.
• Cracked wheel: A safety hazard. May require repair or replacement depending on location and severity.
• Tire damage: Sidewall bulges or cuts from curb impact. Always inspect the tire too.

If you’re unsure, bring the wheel in. We’ll assess both cosmetic and structural damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does curb rash affect wheel performance?

Minor curb rash is purely cosmetic. However, if the damage is deep enough to compromise the wheel’s seal with the tire, it can cause slow air leaks.

Is curb rash covered by insurance?

Typically, curb rash falls under collision coverage. However, filing a claim for cosmetic wheel damage often isn’t worth it due to deductibles. Professional repair is usually more cost-effective than an insurance claim.

How long does curb rash repair take?

Most repairs are completed in 1–2 business days. Complex finishes like chrome or diamond-cut may take 3–5 days.

Can all types of wheels be repaired?

Most alloy, steel, painted, and machined wheels can be repaired. Chrome wheels require strip and re-plate. Carbon fiber wheels need specialized assessment. Contact us for a free evaluation.

Get Your Wheels Fixed Right

Curb rash doesn’t have to be permanent. Whether you’re a dealership with trade-in inventory or a car owner who wants their ride looking sharp, professional repair is faster, cleaner, and more durable than DIY.

Best Wheel Repair — 1420 N Burton Pl, Anaheim, CA 92806 — (714) 239-1122 — Get a Free Quote