Can I paint my Touring rim COVERS black? Or should I just buy black rims?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by macmaster05, Apr 8, 2010.

  1. macmaster05

    macmaster05 Senor Member

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    I want black rims on my magnetic gray touring. I see myself (based on my skill level/comfortability) with 2 options:

    1. I am considering painting my touring COVERS black. Yes, the plastic things that come off. I actually prefer the look and shape of the covers, as opposed to the actual rims. Nevertheless...
    - Will this be a good look?
    - Will this work and last? ...Spray painting on plastic....
    - Glossy or flat black? At first I only considered glossy but now I'm reconsidering....


    2. I could buy black rims.
    - Which are the least expensive (I'm thinking no more than $800 for all 4 not including tires)?
    - Would I need to change my tires? I really want to keep my 16" tires. They are relatively new OEM Turanza EL400.
    - How much of a hit will I take on my mpg?

    THANKS!

    (PS- I had not seen a post about painting the plastic covers black, which is why I started this post.)
     
    #1 macmaster05, Apr 8, 2010
  2. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    Looking at those that painted their 2010's 15" plastic cover, I'd say flat black works well... I can see glossy working only if you paint the spokes (and leave the rim silver plastic) or if you paint everything but leave a thin "rim"
     
    #2 Tideland Prius, Apr 8, 2010
  3. patsparks

    patsparks An Aussie perspective

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    Yes, yes you can. It is after all your car.
     
    #3 patsparks, Apr 8, 2010
    1 person likes this.
  4. Rokeby

    Rokeby Member

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    macmaster,

    I had my Touring rims powder coated, ~$650.

    [​IMG]

    For this, the rims have to be stripped first, so the car may be off the
    road for a few days.

    Painting the covers black would be far less expensive, and you wouldn't
    be faced with the hassle of trying to color match, which in metallic
    paints can be difficult.

    Painted covers can also be replaced if you change your mind later on.
     
    #4 Rokeby, Apr 8, 2010
  5. macmaster05

    macmaster05 Senor Member

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    Thanks all but now Im leaning towards biting the bullet and buying black rims. Can I stay at 16" or do I need to go larger to avoid that "black circle" or "black blob" effect? And which rims provide least drop in mpg and best price? thanks again

    Edit - in addition, are there actually stores that I can visit to look at different rims and get advice - even installed. I seem to find these only online and I'm cool but I'm old fashioned.

    Finally, I planned to get my windows tinted soon too. But my car is covered with pollen. Do I need to wash it first or will the guy clean itbeforehand. I hear horror stories about dirt and bumps afterwards and can't imagine a dirty car will help.
     
    #5 macmaster05, Apr 8, 2010
  6. a_gray_prius

    a_gray_prius Rare Non-Old-Blowhard Priuschat Member

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    #1. There are plenty of 16" rims. Same rules as anything else: Light (=good gas mileage), strong, cheap. Pick two.

    #2. Window tint goes on the inside of the window.
     
    #6 a_gray_prius, Apr 8, 2010
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