How to Fix Tesla Curb Rash: A DIY $20 Guide (That Actually Lasts)
If you’ve just heard that gut-wrenching crunch against a sidewalk, take a breath. You aren’t alone. Tesla rims—especially the 20″ Inductions and 21″ UberTurbines—are notorious for “curb rash” because the wheels sit flush with (or even poke out past) the tires for aerodynamics.
The good news? You don’t need a $200 professional repair. Here is how I fixed mine for $20 and how it’s holding up months later.
💰 Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Shop
In the US, wheel repair prices vary wildly. Here’s what you’re looking at:
| Method | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time | Quality |
| Tesla Service Center | $400 – $800 | 2 Days | They usually just replace the wheel. |
| Mobile Wheel Repair | $150 – $250 | 2 Hours | Professional “factory” finish. |
| DIY Kit (Amazon) | $19 – $35 | 20 Mins | 90% perfect (Invisible from 3 feet). |
The Verdict: If you are returning a lease or want a “concourse” show car finish, call a pro. But if you’re a daily driver who wants the silver metal eyesore gone, the DIY kit is a no-brainer.
🛠 The Step-by-Step Fix
You don’t even need to take the wheel off.
- Prep & Protect: Use blue painter’s tape to mask off the tire. Tuck it right into the bead of the rim. Use an alcohol prep pad (or some Gyeon Q2 Prep) to strip any tire shine or wax. If the surface isn’t clinically clean, the paint won’t stick.
- The Sanding Phase: Use a 100-200 grit sanding block to “level” the jagged metal. You want to sand until you can run your finger over the rash without feeling a “burr.”
- Layered Painting: Tesla “Satin Black” is the standard for Induction wheels. Don’t go heavy. Shake the pen well and apply 3-4 very thin coats. Wait 5-10 minutes between each.
⭐ Long-Term Review: Does the $20 Fix Hold Up?
I performed this repair on my Model Y over six months ago, and here is the honest truth:
- Durability: It has survived multiple high-pressure touchless car washes and a harsh Northeast winter with road salt. No peeling or flaking.
- The “3-Foot Rule”: If you get down on your knees and look closely, you can see where the texture is slightly different. But standing 3 feet away? It is completely invisible.
- Color Match: The “Satin Black” pens on Amazon match the OEM Tesla finish almost perfectly. The gloss level is spot on once it fully cures.
🗣 Real Experience: “It’s about peace of mind”
The first time I rashed my rims, I felt sick. But after doing the DIY fix, that stress disappeared. Why? Because I know if I do it again (and let’s be real, with these wheels, it’s a matter of when, not if), I can fix it in 15 minutes for basically $0 since I already own the kit.
It makes the car look premium again without the “Tesla Tax” of an expensive repair shop.
💡 Pro-Tip for US Owners
If you’re tired of the “Sanding and Painting” cycle, look into MagBak RimCases or RimSavers. They are essentially sacrificial plastic shields that snap over the edge. Next time you hit a curb, you just swap a $20 plastic segment instead of sanding your expensive alloy.
1. How to fix Tesla Aero wheel curb rash before a lease return?
Since you’re in the US, you have access to the best DIY kits specifically made for Tesla’s unique paint codes.
- The “Shadow Gray” Match: 18″ Aero wheels (2017–2023) use a specific gunmetal color. Don’t just use any gray; look for kits by Zink Wheels or T Sportline (available on Amazon/Walmart).
- The Process: 1. Tape it off: Use blue painter’s tape to protect the tire sidewall. 2. Sanding: Use 100-grit sandpaper to remove the sharp burrs, then 400-grit to make it smooth. 3. Dabbing: Instead of long brush strokes, “dab” the paint into the pits. It blends better with the wheel’s texture.
- Human Tip: Do this on a dry, warm day. If it’s too cold or humid (common in the PNW or Northeast), the paint will clump and look obvious to an inspector.
2. Will Tesla charge for curb rash on Aero wheels at the end of a lease?
Tesla’s US Excess Wear and Use Guide is actually quite clear:
- The 6-Inch Rule: Scratches less than 6 inches (cumulative) per wheel are generally considered “Normal Wear” and usually cost $0.
- The Penalty: If the rash is over 6 inches, or if there is a chunk missing from the metal, they will charge you. Typically, this fee ranges from $85 to $150 per wheel in the US.
- Self-Inspection: Use the Tesla App’s self-inspection tool 30-60 days before return. If the app flags it, fix it. If not, don’t touch it!
3. DIY repair vs. $200 professional mobile repair: Is it worth it?
In the US, mobile guys (like Alloy Magic or local specialists) do a “factory-level” job, but for a lease return, it’s often overkill.
- DIY ($30): Best if you just want to hide the “silver” aluminum glow so the inspector doesn’t notice it from 5 feet away. It passes 95% of the time.
- Professional ($150-$200): Only worth it if you have Performance/Uberturbine wheels or if the damage is structural (vibrations while driving).
- The Math: If a DIY kit is $30 and the Tesla penalty is $100, you’re only risking $70. Most people find the DIY route much more logical.
4. Can I hide curb rash with aftermarket Uberturbine-style covers?
This is a very popular “hack” on Tesla forums, but here’s the reality for US lease returns:
- The Risk: Tesla expects the car back with OEM (Original) equipment. If you return it with $80 Amazon hubcaps, they might charge you for “Missing Parts” (approx. $35 per original cover).
- The Strategy: Use the aftermarket covers to protect the wheels while you drive. Before returning the car, take them off. If the alloy underneath is rashed, use a $10 touch-up pen. If the original plastic Aero cover is destroyed, just buy a single new OEM cover from a Tesla Service Center for about $35. It’s cheaper than a professional repair.
5. Best DIY kit to pass Tesla’s inspection.
To ensure you pass the “Excess Wear” check in the US, I recommend:
- Zink Wheels Curb Rash Repair Kit: It’s specifically mixed for the Tesla Aero gray. It includes the exact sandpaper grits you need.
- Dupli-Color Scratch Fix All-in-1: If you’re on a budget, their “Dark Shadow Gray” (Ford code CX) is a shockingly close match for the older Aero wheels and can be found at any AutoZone or O’Reilly.