How to Fix Curb Rash and Rim Damage on Your 2020 Honda Civic

How to Fix Rim Damage on Your 2020 Honda Civic

Dealing with damaged rims on your 2020 Honda Civic can be frustrating, whether it's from accidental curb rash or, as one owner put it, "She managed to do this to 3 of my 4 rims and had no recollection of when it happened 🤣." (Shady_Traveling). This guide will walk you through common issues, diagnosis, and potential fixes based on real owner experiences, focusing on how to keep your rims in top shape and address any damage that may occur.

Symptoms

The most commonly reported symptom related to rims on the vehicle is cosmetic damage, often in the form of curb rash. This usually happens when the vehicle is parked or maneuvering in tight spaces. Owners have shared stories of accidental damage caused by themselves or others.

Another symptom, indirectly related, involves the appeal and aesthetics of the rims. Many owners see changing or upgrading rims as a way to improve the overall look of their vehicle. As one owner stated, "Not even joking any car even an economy one can look so much more smarter and fresher with a new set of rims." (apoptosismydumbassis. This highlights that the condition of the rims can significantly affect the vehicle's appearance.

Beyond aesthetics, physical damage can sometimes lead to vibrations or handling issues. If a rim is severely bent or damaged, it can cause imbalances that are felt while driving. This could manifest as shaking in the steering wheel or general instability, which will definitely need attention.

Finally, there's the concern of theft. While not a direct symptom of rim damage, the desirability of certain rims can make them targets for thieves. One owner expressed gratitude for their wife's idea to make their rims less appealing to potential thieves, stating, "This year im thankful to my wife, who found a way to make my rims less desirable to thieves 🙏" (FloodCityHTX.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the primary cause of rim issues is accidental damage during driving or parking, resulting in curb rash or more significant damage due to impacts. The offset of the rims, which affects how they sit in relation to the wheel well, can also contribute to potential damage. If the offset is incorrect, the rims may be more exposed and susceptible to scrapes and impacts.

Choosing the right rims for your driving style and environment is crucial. City driving, with its tight corners and frequent parking, increases the risk of curb rash. Similarly, rough road conditions can lead to bent or damaged rims. The type of tires you use and their inflation pressure also play a role, as they can affect how well the rims are protected from impacts.

In addition to physical damage, the desire to customize the vehicle is also a prevalent reason for considering rim changes. Owners often want to enhance the appearance of their 2020 Honda Civic by installing aftermarket rims. This can be a purely cosmetic decision, but it's important to ensure that any aftermarket rims are compatible with the vehicle and meet safety standards.

The underlying cause for many owners might be a combination of these factors: the inevitable wear and tear of daily driving combined with the desire to personalize the appearance of their vehicle. This leads to a focus on maintaining or upgrading the rims to keep the vehicle looking its best.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing rim damage typically involves a visual inspection and, in some cases, a test drive to assess for vibrations or handling issues.

1. Visual Inspection: Start by thoroughly examining each rim for any signs of damage. Look for curb rash, dents, bends, or cracks. Pay close attention to the edge of the rim, as this is the area most prone to damage.

2. Tire Condition: Check the tire sidewalls for any cuts, bulges, or uneven wear. Rim damage can sometimes affect the tire, and vice versa.

3. Wheel Balance: If you notice vibrations while driving, the rims may be unbalanced. You can use a wheel balancer to check for imbalances. This tool is available at most tire shops, or you can purchase a portable balancer for home use.

4. Runout Check: A runout check measures how much the rim deviates from a perfect circle as it rotates. This requires a dial indicator and a stand. Mount the dial indicator on the stand so that the tip touches the rim's surface. Rotate the wheel and observe the dial reading. Excessive runout indicates that the rim is bent and needs repair or replacement.

5. Test Drive: After the visual inspection, take the vehicle for a test drive. Pay attention to any vibrations in the steering wheel, unusual noises, or handling issues. Drive at different speeds to see if the symptoms change.

6. Professional Inspection: If you are unsure about the extent of the damage or lack the necessary tools, it's best to take the vehicle to a professional tire shop or mechanic. They have the expertise and equipment to accurately diagnose rim issues.

Tools Required:

• Jack and lug wrench
• Wheel balancer (optional)
• Dial indicator and stand (for runout check)
• Flashlight
• Tire pressure gauge

Step-by-Step Fix

While severely damaged rims require professional repair or replacement, minor curb rash can often be addressed with a DIY fix. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Clean the Rim: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a degreaser to remove any grease or wax.

2. Sand the Damaged Area: Use 180-grit sandpaper to smooth out the curb rash. Be careful not to remove too much material. The goal is to blend the damaged area with the surrounding surface.

3. Fill the Scratches: Apply a thin layer of aluminum filler or body filler to the sanded area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application.

4. Sand Again: Once the filler is dry, sand it smooth with 320-grit sandpaper, followed by 400-grit sandpaper. Feather the edges to blend the repair seamlessly with the rest of the rim.

5. Prime the Area: Apply a coat of automotive primer to the repaired area. This will help the paint adhere properly. Let the primer dry completely.

6. Paint the Rim: Choose a paint color that matches your rim. Apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Use a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish.

7. Wet Sand (Optional): After the clear coat has dried, you can wet sand the repaired area with 2000-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections and achieve a smooth, even finish.

8. Polish: Polish the repaired area with a polishing compound to restore the shine. Use a soft cloth or a polishing wheel for best results.

9. Reinstall the Wheel: Carefully reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.

Owner Experiences:

"Shes willing to replace both rims (yes she curbed 2) but the other one is minor enough where this should work. Ill try on this one as well and see how it ends up looking." (FloodCityHTX. This highlights the decision-making process between repair and replacement based on the severity of the damage.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Soap and water
• Degreaser
• 180-grit, 320-grit, 400-grit, and 2000-grit sandpaper
• Aluminum filler or body filler
• Automotive primer
• Rim paint (matching color)
• Clear coat
• Polishing compound
• Soft cloths
• Sandpaper block
• Gloves
• Masking tape

Real Owner Costs

The cost of repairing or replacing rims can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional.

DIY Repair:

• Materials (sandpaper, filler, primer, paint, clear coat, polishing compound): $50 - $100
• Tools (if you don't already have them): $20 - $50
• Total DIY Cost: $70 - $150 per rim

Professional Repair:

• Rim repair (curb rash): $75 - $150 per rim
• Rim straightening: $100 - $200 per rim
• Rim refinishing: $150 - $300 per rim

Rim Replacement:

• New aftermarket rims: $100 - $500+ per rim (depending on brand and style)
• Used OEM rims: $50 - $200 per rim (depending on condition)
• Installation (if done by a shop): $25 - $50 per rim

One owner mentioned that their warranty covered the cost of fixing their rims after they were damaged, stating, "Lucky I have a warranty on my rim so I got them fixed asap." (Shady_Traveling.

Prevention

Preventing rim damage requires careful driving and maintenance habits. Here are some tips:

• Be Careful When Parking: Take your time and be mindful of curbs when parking. Use your mirrors and backup camera to avoid getting too close.
• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires can increase the risk of rim damage. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level.
• Avoid Potholes and Road Hazards: Try to avoid driving over potholes, debris, and other road hazards. If you can't avoid them, slow down and drive over them carefully.
• Consider Rim Protectors: Rim protectors are adhesive strips that attach to the edge of your rims, providing an extra layer of protection against curb rash.
• Choose the Right Offset: If you are installing aftermarket rims, make sure they have the correct offset for your vehicle. Incorrect offset can make your rims more vulnerable to damage.
• Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your rims to remove brake dust and other contaminants. This will help maintain their appearance and prevent corrosion.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from HONDA owners:

Owner Experiences

"This year im thankful to my wife, who found a way to make my rims less desirable to thieves 🙏" — FloodCityHTX (source)

"Not even joking any car even an economy one can look so much more smarter and fresher with a new set of rims. If you wanna go further and don’t mind a slightly compromised ride, a set of lowering springs at MOST." — apoptosismydumbassis (source)

"Do NOT get an exhaust, wings, splitters, skirts and louvres (jesus christ anything but louvres). It’ll look so tacky you’d have to be legally blind to think it looks good." — apoptosismydumbassis (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix rim damage?

A: DIY repair of minor curb rash can take a few hours, including cleaning, sanding, filling, painting, and polishing. Professional repair can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the extent of the damage and the shop's workload. Replacement is typically the quickest option, often completed in an hour or two.

Q: Can I drive with a damaged rim?

A: It depends on the severity of the damage. Minor curb rash is usually cosmetic and won't affect drivability. However, if the rim is bent, cracked, or causing vibrations, it's best to avoid driving until it's repaired or replaced. Driving with a severely damaged rim can be dangerous and can also damage your tires and suspension.

Q: Is this a common issue on the vehicle?

A: Rim damage is a fairly common issue on most vehicles, especially in urban environments with tight parking spaces and frequent curb encounters. The specific design and offset of the vehicle's rims can also influence their susceptibility to damage.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: DIY repair is suitable for minor curb rash and cosmetic damage. If the rim is bent, cracked, or causing vibrations, it's best to seek professional repair or replacement. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to ensure the rim is properly repaired and balanced. If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle or lack the necessary tools, it's always best to consult a mechanic.