8 best spray paint steel wheels

Spray painting steel wheels is a common practice in automotive customization and restoration. It's an effective way to refresh the look of your wheels or provide a protective coating. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Preparation:

    • Clean the Wheels: Before painting, it's crucial to clean the steel wheels thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or old paint. Use a degreaser or soapy water and a brush.
    • Sand the Surface: To ensure proper adhesion, lightly sand the surface of the wheels. This helps the paint stick better.
  2. Priming:

    • Primer Selection: Choose a high-quality automotive primer designed for use on metal surfaces. This provides a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to and helps prevent rust.
    • Application: Apply the primer in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times.
  3. Choosing the Right Paint:

    • Wheel Paint: Opt for a high-quality wheel paint specifically designed for automotive use. These paints are formulated to withstand the harsh conditions wheels endure, including heat, moisture, and road debris.
    • Color Selection: Select a color that complements your vehicle's overall aesthetic.
  4. Application:

    • Spray Technique: Hold the spray can at a consistent distance from the wheel and apply the paint in even, sweeping motions. Avoid spraying too close or too far from the surface.
    • Thin Coats: It's better to apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. This helps prevent drips and ensures a smooth finish.
    • Drying Time: Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Again, refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for drying times.
  5. Clear Coat (Optional):

    • Applying a clear coat on top of the paint can provide an extra layer of protection and add a glossy finish. Make sure to choose a clear coat designed for automotive use.
  6. Curing Time:

    • After the final coat of paint, allow the wheels to cure for the recommended time before mounting them back onto your vehicle. This ensures the paint fully sets and hardens.
  7. Maintenance:

    • To prolong the lifespan of the paint job, avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals when cleaning your wheels. Use a gentle car wash soap and a soft brush or cloth.
  8. Protective Measures:

    • Consider using wheel covers or wheel wax to provide an extra layer of protection against road debris, brake dust, and other elements.

Remember, proper preparation and technique are crucial for a successful spray paint job on steel wheels.Take your time, follow the manufacturer's instructions, and ensure you're working in a well-ventilated area.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best spray paint steel wheels on the market
  

Rust-Oleum 248927 Automotive High Performance Wheel Spray Paint, 11 oz., Steel

Rust-Oleum

Based on 993 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum Automotive High Performance Wheel Coating spray paint provides a long lasting and durable finish which restores the original look of wheels and hubcaps. Rust, corrosion and weather resistant formula with easy to apply design to change the look of any vehicle without the hassle. Any angle spray with comfort tip allows painting of hard to reach areas while reducing finger fatigue.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum High Performance Wheel Coating enhances the look and color of your vehicle's wheels while keeping the surface free from rust.

  • Rust preventative paint is suitable for use on metal wheels, plastic hubcaps and more
  • Oil based formula dries fast and provides exceptional durability
  • Dries to the touch in 10 minutes and covers up to 8 sq ft
  • Dent and scratch resistant wheel paint creates a long-lasting finish
  • Provides a glossy, high shine finish for a brand new look
  • Stops Rust Formula prevents corrosion and rust
  • Restores the original look of wheels and hub caps

User questions & answers

Question: What color is steel? looking for lt silver color... do the wheels need to be primed first? thanks
Answer: I used silver for my steel wheels and they look good. I didnt used primer is not needed ,but i cleaned wheels first before spraying.
Question: Is this enamel or acrylic? Thank you
Answer: The label on the can does not specify if it's enamel or acrylic. I can tell you it started flaking off my wheels a few days after I applied it. I do not recommend this product.
Question: I know it says steel, but will this match my bikes brushed (universal) aluminum color I need? Painting the lower forks
Answer: Two (2) choices: Try it. or, call the paint mfg.
Question: I want to know how many wheels can i paint with 1 sprait of 11 ounce
Answer: I painted my set of 4 15" rims with 2 cans each of primer, color, and clear. 1 can should do two rims if you do several light coats as recommended on the can.

Product features

Rust-Oleum 248927 Automotive High Performance Wheel Spray Paint, 11 oz., Steel

Description:

Rust-Oleum High Performance Wheel Coating enhances the look and color of your vehicle's wheels while keeping the surface free from rust. Recommended for use on plastic hubcaps and wheels made of aluminum or steel.

  • Long lasting finish
  • Ideal for metal & plastic
  • Stops Rust formula
  • Any-Angle Spray with Comfort Tip

AES Industries 32" Diameter Heavy Canvas Wheel Paint Masker/Wheel Protection Cover with Stitched-in Flexible Steel Holding Rod - Set of 4

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This AES Canvas Wheel Masker Set comes with four maskers specially made from thick canvas material that totally eliminate the risk of bleed through while spray painting. Heavy duty stitching with a flexible rod stitched into the top of the masker will keep the masker in place. Simply place the masker over the wheel and you are ready to go! Available in Small, Large and Extra Large sizes to fit any wheel size!

  • Made to fit SUV and oversize custom wheels up to a 32" diameter with up to 10" wheel width.
  • Specially made from thick canvas material that helps to eliminate the risk of overspray bleed through while spray painting.
  • Heavy duty stitching holds a flexible steel rod inside the edge of the masker that can be set around the back of the wheel to keep the masker secured in place.

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit RV wheels? 245/70R
Answer: yes the part number comes back to an aerosol can.

Rust-Oleum 248929 Automotive High Performance Wheel Spray Paint, 11 oz, Clear

Rust-Oleum

Based on 215 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum Automotive High Performance Wheel Coating spray paint provides a long lasting and durable finish which restores the original look of wheels and hubcaps. Transparent coat provides protection and increases durability of Rust-Oleum High Performance Wheel Coatings when applied without sacrificing beautiful color. Any angle spray with comfort tip allows painting of hard to reach areas while reducing finger fatigue.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum High Performance Wheel Coating enhances the look and color of your vehicle's wheels while keeping the surface free from rust.

  • Rust preventative paint is suitable for use on metal wheels, plastic hubcaps and more
  • Oil based formula dries fast and provides exceptional durability
  • Dries to the touch in 10 minutes and covers up to 12 sq ft
  • Protective clear wheel paint offers superior dent and scratch resistance with long lasting durability
  • Provides a durable, high gloss coating

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a paint or just a transparent spray to prevent rust? Can I just spray it on the wheels of camry 2010? Or there are additional steps
Answer: It's a clearcoat, so technically it's transparent paint. And yes you can just spray on your wheels, there are additional steps that the manufacturer recommends, or I personally; like sanding, applying primer, applying color(painting) and then clear with this product to get good results. I did the 4 wheels on my car and they look awesome but I took a lot of time doing prep. If you don't do the prep work it can still be done just don't have high expectations and later blame the product because you didn't put the work in it. At least make sure the surface it's clean, and keep in mind it's clear paint so it will not cover any defects, to get a glossy finish spray a light coat followed by one or two wet coats, be careful to not let the paint run when you apply the wet coats. As for the rust prevention I din't know.
Question: Will this product adhere to raw aluminum or does does it need to go on over paint
Answer: Best to use 2K epoxy or self etching primer over clean well prepared aluminum. Do not let anyone tell you orherwise.
Question: Can this be used for wood? (I'm trying to spray paint my skateboard deck and I need a clear coat so the paint doesn't come off
Answer: I use this on my dump truck metal sides. It also stays very well on my wood sideboards too. I just give it 2 or 3 coats and let it soak in.
Question: How many cans does it take to do five rims, inside and outside of rim
Answer: I was able to paint the outsides of 4, 17" rims and the center caps with 2-3 coats, with less than 4 cans. The trouble I had is that the paint really needs to bake so that the surface will harden. The appearance was great, but didn't last. I think if I had the ability to bake the paint, it would still look great and last the elements.

Rust-Oleum 7582838 Professional Primer Spray Paint, 15 oz, Gray Primer

Rust-Oleum

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum Professional Primer Spray provides twice the protection of enamels alone. The primer provides excellent coverage and is tough enough for commercial applications. The primer prepares the project with a durable coating and superior protection from rust. It also provides excellent resistance to abrasion, fading, chipping or dulling. High output tip featuring any angle spray that works even when upside down, means quick and easy project completion.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum 7582838 High Performance Primer Professional Spray Paint Enamel, Gray Rust-Oleum Professional Primer Spray provides twice the protection of enamels alone. Apply to metal, wood, concrete and masonry in heavy-duty and commercial environments. Protects against the elements. Rust-Oleum 7582838 High Performance Primer Professional Spray Paint Enamel, Gray Features: Fast drying Excellent coverage Tough enough for industrial applications Gray Primer 15-Ounce rosol.

  • Ideal for use on ferrous, non-ferrous metal, wood, concrete, masonry and other such surfaces to prepare surfaces for painting, provide rust protection and a tough finish that withstands weathering
  • High quality, durable oil-based formula maintains consistent, corrosion-resistant color despite the elements and provides twice the protection of paint alone
  • Covers up to 14 sq ft, dries to touch in 15 minutes and ready for immediate topcoat application ; Indoor/outdoor
  • Commercial, industrial paint formula features a high output tip that can be sprayed at any angle
  • Primer provides a base for excellent adhesion and withstands demanding, heavy-use environments

User questions & answers

Question: Is this safe for rabbits
Answer: I would not spray it on rabbits. But if you are spraying the cadge make sure they don't chew on it it might make them sick.
Question: Can it be sanded ? How good is it on bare metal
Answer: This is a primer and is intended to be used on bare metal. The metal should be clean of oil and grease though I believe you can spray over rust, though not preferred. This is not the sort of primer you use to blend out sheet metal and should not be sanded.
Question: Can this be applied over light rust? If not, what product do I need for this
Answer: I cleaned light rust with a little paint thinner and then sprayed this primer on a prep gun motor. Then used black rustoleom paint over primer. And its been two years and the motor is still in good shape.
Question: size of area coverage
Answer: Rustoleum website said 14 sq feet

Product features

Rust-Oleum High Performance Enamel Spray Paint

Tough enough for commercial applications, Rust-Oleum Professional High Performance Enamel Spray Paint provides excellent coverage in a fast-drying, rust preventative coating. Commercial-quality enamel dries quickly with superior resistance to abrasion, chipping, fading and dulling.

High-Output Tip

50% Faster Coverage.

Any-Angle Spray

360° Application.

Fast Drying

Dries to Touch in 15 mins.

Rust-Oleum High Performance Enamel Spray

Resists corrosion, abrasion, chipping, fading and dulling.

High quality rust prevention

Formulated to prevent rust for long lasting protection.

Excellent gloss and color retention

Project sized can provides durable, attractive color.

Sand previously painted surfaces
Apply 2 or more light coats
Ready to handle in 1-2 hours

Rust-Oleum 249331 Automotive Rusty Metal Primer Spray Paint, 12 oz, Light Gray

Rust-Oleum

Based on 472 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum Automotive Rusty Metal Primer spray paint is a durable base coat with superior rust protection, providing more than two times the rust prevention of using lacquers and enamels alone. Uniquely formulated to be effective on heavily rusted surfaces. Stops Rust technology provides a long lasting finish with great corrosion resistance intended for use on heavily rusted metal. Comfort tip and any angle spray reduce finger fatigue and allow painting of hard to reach areas.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum Rusty Metal Primer provides the best base surface on heavily rusted metal for most brands of automotive lacquers and enamels.

  • Primer spray paint is designed to protect heavily rusted surfaces
  • Oil based paint with Stops Rust formula provides rust resistant base coat for cars, trucks and other vehicles
  • Covers up to 12 sq ft and dries to the touch (and can be recoated) in 15 minutes
  • Corrosion resistant spray paint provides more than twice the rust protection of enamels alone
  • Flat finish can be covered with any topcoat with superior adhesion

User questions & answers

Question: Would this work on a bicycle frame I'm restoring
Answer: Yes
Question: Can I paint my handgun with it? It’s old and it got some rust I want to prevent it
Answer: I wold not maybe some 3000 grit depending 5000 or higher or even lower grit. test in a small area underneath or a hidden area under the grip/stock if its super light rust might get it clean then oil it or get some blue steel for guns and re blue it. All depends on bad the rust is check inside the action barrel or better yet get a gun Smith to look at it there better ways than this rustoleum
Question: So how long can I leave this on my truck before painting
Answer: This stuff is very tough to sand it is almost like stand alone paint very durable kinda surprised me no fingerprint transfer after it dried so I dont think it matters much. I left mine on for a week before I got around to painting I just ran a clean new terrycloth towel & normal prep and my flat black topcoat is fine a year later
Question: Can I use it on my car's exhaust pipe
Answer: No. Your exhaust pipe gets very hot. You would need a primer that's designed for that heat.

Product features

Rust-Oleum 249331 Automotive Rusty Metal Primer Spray Paint

Rust-Oleum Rusty Metal Primer provides the base surface on heavily rusted metal for most brands of automotive lacquers and enamels. Provides more than two times the rust prevention of using lacquers and enamels alone.

  • Wet or dry sand
  • Stops Rust formula
  • Any-Angle Spray with Comfort Tip
  • For maximum protection, top coat with Rust-Oleum finishes

Rust-Oleum 7578838 Enamel Spray Paint, 15 Oz, Flat Black

Rust-Oleum

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum Professional High Performance enamel spray provides excellent coverage and is tough enough for commercial applications. Paint provides a durable coating with superior protection from rust and excellent resistance to abrasion, fading, chipping or dulling. High output tip featuring any angle spray that works even when upside down, means quick and easy project completion.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum Professional 15 oz High Performance enamel spray provides excellent coverage and it tough enough for commercial applications.

  • Ideal for use on ferrous, non-ferrous metal, wood, concrete, masonry and other such surfaces to provide rust protection and a tough attractive finish that withstands weathering
  • High quality, durable oil-based formula maintains consistent, corrosion-resistant color despite the elements
  • Covers up to 14 sq ft, dries to touch in 15 minutes and recoats within an hour for quick project completion
  • Commercial, industrial paint formula features a high output tip that can be sprayed at any angle
  • Flat finish helps hide surface imperfections and withstands demanding, heavy-use environments

User questions & answers

Question: How does this paint do on outside metal Railing... Does it do well on wet weather and will i need to prime it before i apply the gloss black
Answer: I live in Oregon and it’s done well on my iron gate. To prep it I used a wire brush to mainly loosen any chips. I didn’t prime first.
Question: Can I use this for a airsoft gun
Answer: You can if you want to, but this paint is for metal. So if your airsoft gun is plastic, then I'd suggest you use a paint for plastic, like Krylon Plastic paint.
Question: Do I need to apply primer before use this coating
Answer: Most Paint will adhere better with Primer, I would say no, it's not Something you Have to do, but if you want the paint to stick and hold at its best. I would prime the surface first.
Question: How many of these do I need for four rims
Answer: It depends if your painting bike rims or car rims also how many coats you wanna put on. But most likely two cans.

Product features

Rust-Oleum High Performance Enamel Spray Paint

Tough enough for commercial applications, Rust-Oleum Professional High Performance Enamel Spray Paint provides excellent coverage in a fast-drying, rust preventative coating. Commercial-quality enamel dries quickly with superior resistance to abrasion, chipping, fading and dulling.

High-Output Tip

50% Faster Coverage.

Any-Angle Spray

360° Application.

Fast Drying

Dries to Touch in 15 mins.

Rust-Oleum High Performance Enamel Spray

Resists corrosion, abrasion, chipping, fading and dulling.

High quality rust prevention

Formulated to prevent rust for long lasting protection.

Excellent gloss and color retention

Project sized can provides durable, attractive color.

Sand previously painted surfaces
Apply 2 or more light coats
Ready to handle in 1-2 hours

VHT SP187 Gloss Black Wheel Paint Can - 11 oz.

VHT

Based on 877 reviews Check latest price

Product description

VHT SP187 Gloss Black High Heat Wheel Paint is a polyurethane paint specifically designed for steel and aluminum wheels. VHT wheel paint provides a great finish and real protection for all standard and custom wheels. Wheels take a beating both on and off the road from sand, salt, sun, brake dust and rocks which severely damage the appearance and protection of the wheel surface. This unique product resists chipping, cracking and fading, while protecting the wheel surface from oxidation. Careful preparation is essential to insure proper adhesion. VHT wheel paint is part of a multi high performance coating system. The coating system products consist of primer, paint, and clear coat. VHT wheel paint dries to the touch in 30 minutes and completely over night. Complete application and instructions are also printed on each can.

  • Aluminum high heat wheel paint is a polyurethane paint specifically designed for steel and aluminum wheels
  • Superior heat and chemical resistance
  • Best when used with primer color paint and clear coat process
  • Withstands temperatures up to 900 degrees when cured properly
  • This item is not for sale in Catalina Island

User questions & answers

Question: How do I get a credit being my item exploded and leaked everywhere
Answer: Put in a return and explain what happened when it was deliverd
Question: High heat
Answer: Designed for wheels
Question: can I apply this paint over a epoxy primer
Answer: Absolutely ! It's very versatile stuff! And for a wet look, I always go over the gloss black with clear gloss.
Question: I have a toyota 4runner with just the stock 17" rims. how many cans would i need to cover all 4 wheels
Answer: I got two for my Camry and it was enough for all 4 wheels

Product features

VHT Wheel Paint

VHT Wheel Paint provides a great finish and real protection for all standard and custom wheels. Everyday wheels take a beating both on and off the road. Salt, sand, brake dust and rocks severely damage the appearance and protection of the wheel surface. This unique product resists chipping, cracking and fading, while protecting the wheel surface from oxidation, and is available in five popular colors, plus clear coat.

Dupli-Color EHWP10107 Silver High Performance Wheel Paint - 12 oz.

Dupli-Color

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dupli Colors high performance wheel coating will customize or dress up worn out wheels. It's the spray-on solution that creates a custom look. The advanced, track tested acrylic enamel formula restores original wheel appearance and protects wheels. It resists brake dust, chemicals, cleaning solvents, heat and chipping. Ideal for use on steel or aluminum wheels and plastic wheel coverings. Top with clear coat HWP 103 Clear for optimal durability and gloss.

  • Flash point: -18 degrees_celsius

User questions & answers

Question: Has anyone wetsanded after using the clear gloss? How long did it take to cure
Answer: I wetsanded the clear gloss over this and it all came right off, sanded down to my fricken primer with 2000 grit. I couldnt believe it. I have to repaint the whole thing now kinda blows....
Question: How does this compare to the dupli color gunmetal that I see on Amazon, as well
Answer: This is graphite or charcoal wheel paint color
Question: Will this match well for 2014 BMW painted alloy wheels
Answer: I used on my 2014 BMW 528i Rims, I also uses the clearcoat to protect is from scratching easily, works great
Question: Do you have to primer, first
Answer: You should and it will run less and cure better, but you don't absolutely have to. If you skip primer, you have to degrease and clean the entire wheel in soap and water, then wet sand the entire surface to get through the clear coat or acrylic barrier in the paint layer, 800-2000 grit until the entire rim looks hazy when you wipe it dry. Then clean it with isopropyl alcohol, and use air to blow any remaining fibers or debris away from the wheel. All your coats must be 5-30 minutes apart, not sooner, not longer. First two coats, just lightly dust it, don't worry about coverage. Next coat should be a light overall coat that is not wet and glossy (pull it back!). Once that tacks up a bit, then you can apply a medium wet coat, by repeating the light coat you did over and over until it STARTS to look wet and glossy. Don't keep going over a spot that already does. Let it cure untouched for 7 days. Your paint will be good.

Product features

Wheel Coating

Dupli-Color Wheel Coating is perfect for customizing or dressing up worn out wheels. This advanced, track-tested acrylic enamel formula restores original wheel appearance and protects against brake dust, chemicals, cleaning solvents, heat, and chipping. Dupli-Color Wheel Coating features a highly durable finish with superior adhesion to steel, aluminum, and plastic wheels and wheel coverings.

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