How to Remove Spray Paint from Rims (Wheels) Easily (2024)

Spray paint is readily available, easy to use, and can offer a quick makeover. However, if you don’t get the spray paint just right, it is really difficult to remove!

Whether you made a mistake with your wheels, have old spray paint to remove, or want to change the color, there is hope! Keep reading to learn how to remove spray paint from your rims safely and easily.

Special Considerations

Removing spray paint from wheels can be a tricky business. Spray paint bonds like crazy to surfaces. The longer it has been on the wheels, the more difficult it will be to remove,

However, you can not use just any paint remover on your wheels. For one, you could damage your rims. If you don’t remove the rims from the tires, the paint stripper will definitely damage the rubber of your tires.

In order to effectively and safely remove spray paint from your rims, you will need just the right tools and a fair amount of elbow grease.

Paint Removal Options

It’s great to live in the age of options! Don’t be overwhelmed by the number of options available for paint removal.

Some paint removers can be very caustic, and should not be used on your rims. Here are a few options you can try. If your test spot fails, pick a different paint remover.

As with any chemical, always read and understand all instructions and warnings before using the product. These paint removers are all toxic if ingested. If ingestion occurs, contact a medical professional.

Avoid contact with your skin and eyes, by wearing long sleeves and eye protection while removing paint. In order to avoid inhalation, wear a mask while applying these solvents.

Goo Gone

Goo Gone is a classic household staple for a reason. Goo gone will act as a paint remover and will thin the paint. It is a relatively gentle solution that will not harm most surfaces.

Goof Off

Goof Off is designed to remove paint and ink. It is marketed as being safe for use on tires, but I would still recommend removing your tires from your wheels before you apply Goof Off. It is an effective paint remover that is still multi-surface friendly.

Acetone

Pure acetone is the same, smelly stuff used to remove nail polish. It is fairly caustic and can be somewhat expensive, compared to products like Goo Gone. However, it is great for removing spray paint!

Adhesive Remover

This adhesive remover is similar to products like Goo Gone or Goof Off. The aerosol product is low-VOC. VOCs are the noxious fumes put out by paint products. Not only is this product environmentally friendly, but it is also safe to use on most surfaces, including car wheel rims. It breaks the bond of the spray paint.

Paint Thinner

Paint thinners like this are also known as mineral spirits. It softens the paint on contact, making it easy to wipe off. Paint thinner is very caustic. Use caution when applying and removing paint thinner. This product is not for sale in California, due to the VOC restriction laws in the state.

Smart Strip

Smart Strip Paint Remover is environmentally friendly and safe for use on many different surfaces. It is a zero VOC product, meaning, it has no dangerous fumes. It is particularly effective on multiple layers of paint.

Materials Needed

• Paint remover of choice. Look at the options above. You may want to have several options at hand, in case your test spot is not successful.
• Stiff-bristle toothbrush. You will need a toothbrush to remove the paint from hard-to-reach areas of the wheel.
• Old rags or clothes. These will be used to wipe the paint and paint remover off of your rims.
• Hose and water. You will need to clean the wheels before paint removal and rinse them afterward.
• Tools to remove the wheels. You probably have these tools in your toolbox already. You will need a lug wrench, a pry bar, and a car jack.
• You will need sandpaper to buff the wheels.
• Drill with a brush attachment (optional). Sandpaper is a much more affordable option, but a drill with a brush will help the buffing process go much faster!
• Pressure washer (optional). A hose will get the job done, but a power washer will help to blast away the dirt and stubborn paint. However, if the pressure on your power washer is too high, it may damage the rims.
• Work light (optional). A well-lit space will make your job easier!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Remove Spray Paint from Rims

Once you have determined which paint remover to use, and have assembled your materials, you are ready to begin!

Remove Wheels

This step is not absolutely necessary, but it will protect your tires from any chemical paint remover. The chemicals in paint remover may degrade the rubber in the tires.

It will also be easier to thoroughly clean your rims if they are detached from the vehicle and the tires.

Suit up in Safety Gear

Most paints and solvents will release fumes that can be dangerous to breathe. I suggest a breathing mask to reduce the effects of the fumes. Use gloves while handling paint remover. Long pants and long sleeves will protect your skin from any splatter.

Clean the Wheels

Use your hose or power washer to blast the dirt off of your wheels! Wheels tend to be dirty. Removing all the dirt, sand, and dust will ensure that the paint remover will have as much contact as possible with the spray paint.

Do a Test Spot

Always do a test spot! This is the best way to determine if the paint stripper will damage the wheels.

Find an out of sight spot and apply a small amount of paint remover to the spray paint. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off. If the wheels reacted well to the material used, then you know it is safe to continue the process with the rest of the rims.

Apply the Paint Stripper

The paint strippers suggested above all come in liquid form. Whether you spray, wipe, or squirt, make sure all areas of the rim are thoroughly covered.

Check the package instructions. You will probably need to leave the paint remover on for 10-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it! Once the paint starts to bubble, it is time to wipe it off.

Wipe the Paint Stripper from the Rims

Grab your pile of rags and start wiping! This is the messy part. The combination of paint and paint remover will be thick and sticky. Make sure you have plenty of rags for the job. Keep wiping and move as quickly as possible.

If you kept the rims attached to the tires for this process, make sure you remove the paint remover from the tires first! The longer the tires are exposed to this solvent, the more damage it may cause.

Get All the Nooks and Crannies

Get out your handy toothbrush to scrub away every last speck of paint. Use a work light to illuminate every angle of the rim. Keep scrubbing until all the paint is removed.

Rinse the Wheels

Use the hose or pressure washer to rinse the wheels a final time. A pressure washer may be particularly helpful to blast off any final areas of stubborn paint.

You want to make sure that all of the paint and paint remover are off of the wheels before you sand them. The remaining paint remover can mess up the surface of your final product.

Buff the Wheels

Use the sandpaper or your drill and brush to buff the wheels. Your wheels may look a little dull and rough after the paint removal process. Sanding and buffing will help give your rims a smooth, shiny finish. Again, that work light may help you see every angle.

Other Ways to Remove Spray Paint from Rims

Media Blasting

Media blasting, or sand blasting, is another way to remove stubborn spray paint from wheels. Media blasting combines an abrasive substance with compressed air to remove paint and debris from a surface. Sandblasting is an effective, chemical-free way to remove paint and dirt.

To sandblast your rims, you will need a sand blaster, an air compressor, and a fine medium for sandblasting. Remove your wheels from your tires before sandblasting! Follow all instructions on your sandblaster for the best results.

Hire a Professional

Automotive painters, especially those who offer rim painting services, usually offer paint removal services as well. If you choose to DIY this project, it may take up a whole weekend, depending on your level of expertise!

If you don’t have that kind of time, consider hiring a professional to remove the paint for you. Get some quotes from reputable body shops in your area, then evaluate your time and the expense.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let some misplaced spray paint hold you back! Remove any unsightly spray paint and get the wheels you want. With a little knowledge and elbow grease, your wheels should be spray paint-free and ready for your next adventure.