Wrapping DIY rims with Foliatec spray film – easy and cheap?

Thomas Wachsmuth March 23, 2024 Car repair & tuning guide, Reviews

Reading time 5 Min.

In the world of DIY tunings Car fans like us at tuningblog.eu are always looking for cost-effective and easy ways to personalize the look of the vehicle. One of the best-known methods is foiling the rims, which not only gives the car a new look but also protects the aluminum from damage. And in our case that was sorely necessary. Because the wheelset from our 540i comes from our old one B5, and had already seen several winters with road salt. The surface of the OEM 19 inch rims from BMW (Styling 620, format 8.5×19 ET25 & 9,5Jx19 ET39, tires 245/40 R19 98V all around). In this guide you will learn how to use your rims yourself Foliatec spray film in black can foil. The procedure is not just easy to carry out, but also particularly cost-effective, making it perfect for DIY enthusiasts.

Wrap your rims yourself with Foliatec spray film

By the way, if you're not interested in reading the complete instructions, just take a look the following video which we have summarized briefly and succinctly. HERE there is the spray film and HERE the sealing.

Preparation:

Cleaning: The rims have to completely clean and be free of dust, dirt or other residues. For an optimal result, the rims should be prepared as if they were taken to a specialist workshop for painting - but without sanding. In addition to those supplied cleaning wipes from Foliatec you should stop brake cleaner or use a similar solvent that evaporates without leaving any residue.
Check damage: Check the rims for damage. Minor defects can (but do not necessarily) affect the adhesion of the film. If necessary, the rims grind (Grind out scratches) at the defective area or fill it. At the repair but please pay attention what is allowed and what is not.
materials required: of course the Foliatec spray film (approx. 3 bottles for rims from 19 inches), cleaning agent, covering material (e.g. paper or special cover cards)
Info: In our opinion, the cover cards from Foliatec are not sufficient. So get more beforehand or alternatively cut cardboard, use tabs, etc. The spray film should be applied at an outside temperature of at least 15 degrees. The room must also be well ventilated.

the process of spray wrapping:

Thorough cleaning: Start with an intensive cleaning of the rims. Use a suitable cleaning agent for this. Please note that a simple cloth or the cleaning products provided are often not enough to adequately prepare all four rims.

Cover: Carefully protect the tires and adjacent areas with covering material. The cards included in the kit may not be enough, so you should have additional materials on hand. That can too Wrapping in tire bags (Available at ATU, PitStop, car dealerships, tire dealers, etc.) not hurt. Simply add the rim Put it in the tire bag, the shape of the rim cutting out and then the cards accordingly Attach.

Spraying process: Apply the spray film 2-3 layers to ensure an even and opaque coating. Be sure to hold the can approximately 20-25cm away while spraying for optimal distribution. Spray difficult areas carefully. If necessary, the rims set up/rotate etc. Each shift should take about 15-20 minutes let it evaporate.

Drying and Sealing: After all coats have been applied, allow the rims to dry thoroughly (3 to 4 hours). You can then use the Foliatec sealing layer Apply, which is particularly recommended for shiny and bright colors.

Important tips on how to work:

Thickness of the layer: A thicker layer makes it easier to remove the film later. More than two cans per rim may be needed, primarily for rims with many spokes. It's best to buy two sets
Protection of the tire: Even if some spray gets on the tire, it won't be a big problem, at least from a safety perspective. For optimal results, special ones can be used tire bags be used to completely cover the tires.

Conclusion

Wrapping the rims with Foliatec spray film is one simple and cost effective optionto change the look of the vehicle. With a little patience and care, you can achieve good results that are not only visually appealing but also provide some protection for the rims. Immerse yourself in the world of DIY car tuning and personalize your vehicle according to your wishes. If you have any further questions or would like to know more about the topic, do not hesitate to ask your questions in the comment section.

FAQ: Spray film for the rims

What is needed?

2 x rim set spray from the online shop
Workwear, Gloves, Safety goggles
wheel cleaner for a clean surface
possibly adhesive tape for precise masking
Optional: primer, Sealer

Preparation and application

Cleaning: Clean the rims thoroughly with rim cleaner.
Masking: Protect tires and valves with adhesive tape. Cover work surface.
To test: Test the Black Matt Spray in an inconspicuous area.
Spraying: Shake the spray can for 2 minutes. Apply in multiple coats, allowing 15-20 minutes drying time in between.
First layer: Spray only to 50 percent coverage.
More layers: More coats increase the ease of subsequent removal.
After drying: Apply sealant if necessary.
Remove tape/cover cards: Immediately after applying the last coat to avoid damage.
Let dry: Allow to dry sufficiently before reattachment to the vehicle and use.
Note curing time: Before the first wash in the car wash.
Cleanser: If possible, only use wheel cleaner with soap solution.

Environment and security

Working temperature: 15-20 degrees Celsius is ideal.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation and keep away from sources of ignition.
Protective clothing: If possible, wear safety glasses and gloves.
Disposal: Do not dispose of remaining spray in household waste. Instead to Mobile pollutants or in the pollutant collection bring.

Wrapping DIY rims with Foliatec spray film – easy and cheap?

The following note is essential: For safety reasons, tuningblog recommends all repair, inspection and maintenance work exclusively to be carried out in a specialist workshop! Although our information is summarized to the best of our knowledge and belief, we cannot assume any liability for the content. All information is therefore "without guarantee".