The average cost of fixing a curb rash differs depending on the wheel material. While a steel damage will cost you approximately $50, a chrome repair will cost between $200-$300, and $200-$500 for an aluminum wheel repair. For plastic wheels that are difficult to fix, a replacement is advised.
What is Curb Rash?
Curb Rash is an auto term often used while describing any impairment to the wheels of a vehicle caused by friction against the curb. Sometimes, although less commonly, curb rash can also occur as a result of too many encounters with potholes or other destructive objects on the road.
Types of Curb Rash
There are different types of Curb Rash caused by different situations but the most common ones include
BendsCracksDentsGougesScratchesScuffs
Cost of Curb Rash Repair
You might wonder what it would cost to repair that curb rash and restore your vehicle’s glow. The truth is, there is no particular cost for fixing curb rash everywhere. The cost of fixing a curb rash will depend on so many factors such as the type and level of damage incurred, cost of material, and cost of labor. Although there is no specific cost for curb rash repair everywhere, this article presents an estimate.
Below is a breakdown of repair costs depending on wheel material.
Aluminum: If it is a scratch and scuff repair, it will typically cost about $200-$500. But if the damage is more serious than a scratch or scuff, the vehicle owner will be required to replace the damaged wheel with a new one.
Chrome :A scratch and scuff repair wouldn’t cost less than $200 or more than $300. But if the damage is a crack or more serious damage, a full replacement will be required.
Plastic Clad: Repairing a plastic wheel is often a tricky exercise, and would require a new rim. Hence vehicle owners are advised to get a new replacement as this option is relatively more affordable.
Steel: For less serious damages, the average cost of repairing steel damage is $50. For more serious damages, repair might cost you $150 or more, or better still, you might be needing a replacement.
What Contributes to the Cost of Curb Rash Repair
When you get a bill after your curb rash has been repaired you might begin to wonder what contributed to this total cost and of course, your feeling isn’t out of place. Generally, the cost of curb rash repair is mainly made up of two components and they include
Parts: This includes the cost of all the extra pieces that were used to fix your vehicle and the cost of parts that was replaced.
Labor: This includes the amount of money the technician charges for getting your vehicle fixed. Depending on your location, taxes and other fees might apply.
Cost of Curb Rash Repair Depending on Vehicle
Most times, the type of vehicle you drive will determine the cost of repairing a curb rash. This is because different vehicles have different wheels and the cost of repair of different wheels differs. The cost of repair will be less expensive if your car wheel is made of steel. But if your car wheel is made of chrome, the cost of repair will be more expensive even though the damage on both surfaces looks the same.
If the cost of repairing your vehicle is very expensive, it would be advisable to get a replacement. Although his option might seem a bit too pricey at first, it is often more economical in the long run. However, if you cannot afford the cost of a repair or a replacement, you can always get that curb rash fixed yourself by following a simple DIY steps.
Conclusion
As noted earlier, the cost of a curb rash repair differs depending on so many factors. But the most important thing here is to know when to get your wheel fixed, or when to get a replacement. Because at the end of the day, everyone wants the most economical and most effective option.
- Can I DIY a curb rash repair?
Yes, you can, all you need to do is learn the procedures, and stick to them. If the damage is a little trickier and more serious than you thought, you might want to visit an expert.
- Is it better to replace or repair wheels?
This would depend on the amount of damage that was incurred. If it is just a scratch, you can easily get a technician to fix it. But for more serious damages such as cracks, it might be more economical to have the parts replaced.
- Is curb rash a big deal?
Yes, curb rash is a big deal because it can result in various structural damages which could be harmful. Some of these damages include cracking, bending, chunking, or gouging.
