Genesis G80 Wheel Refinishing Review — Ghost Chrome Upgrade
Service Price
$115–150
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Genesis G80 Ghost Chrome wheel refinishing: Custom color upgrade. Process includes repair, sandblasting, powder coating, and clear coat.
Genesis G80 Wheel Customization: Ghost Chrome Refinishing
Are you a Genesis G80 owner looking to elevate your vehicle's aesthetic beyond the standard factory finish? For those considering wheel refinishing, especially in areas like Asan, South Korea, a custom color change can make a significant impact. This review details a recent project at 'Today's Car' Asan branch, where a Genesis G80 received a unique Ghost Chrome wheel refinishing, moving beyond a simple restoration to a personalized, deeper chrome hue.
Expert Wheel Refinishing at Today's Car Asan
Today's Car Asan branch specializes in import car wheel restoration and painting, serving the Asan, Pyeongtaek, and Cheonan regions. They possess the expertise to not only repair wheel damage but also to propose and execute custom color schemes that complement a vehicle's overall concept. Their experience is particularly valuable for owners of premium vehicles like the Genesis, who often have high expectations for visual refinement.
The Ghost Chrome Wheel Refinishing Process for Genesis G80
The centerpiece of this particular service was the selection of the "Ghost Chrome" color. While the standard G80 wheels typically feature a bright, silver-toned sputtering finish, the owner desired a darker, more substantial chrome appearance. Achieving this custom look involved a meticulous five-step painting process:
Installation process:
- Wheel Surface Damage Restoration: The initial step involves precisely repairing any existing scratches and damage on the wheels. This stage focuses on creating a perfectly smooth and level surface by filling imperfections and carefully sanding to ensure uniformity across the entire wheel.
- Sandblasting for Surface Activation: After repairs, the wheels undergo sandblasting. This process uses high-pressure fine sand particles to remove contaminants and create a micro-textured surface. This "surface activation" is crucial for ensuring optimal adhesion of the subsequent paint layers.
- Powder Coating Black Base Layer: The first paint application is a black base layer using powder coating. Powder coating is an environmentally friendly method where dry powder paint is electrostatically applied and then cured at high temperatures. It results in a thick, durable coating that provides an excellent foundation for the custom color, adding depth to the final Ghost Chrome finish.
- Mid-Coat Base Chrome Color Application: This is where the Ghost Chrome color truly begins to take shape. Applying this mid-coat base layer creates a finish that is noticeably more subdued and sophisticated than the standard factory silver, lending a more premium and refined look to the wheels.
- Top Coat Acrylic Powder Clear Coating: The final step is a protective acrylic powder clear coat. This transparent layer shields the underlying paint from UV rays, moisture, and chemicals, while also defining the wheel's final gloss. This acrylic powder clear offers superior hardness (3H+) and durability compared to liquid clear coats.
Standard Sputtering vs. Ghost Chrome: What's the Difference?
The most striking difference in this project is the color. Genesis G80s often come with a bright, almost mirror-like silver sputtering finish. Ghost Chrome, however, offers a darker, more sophisticated tone. This custom finish provides a deeper, more nuanced metallic look that can significantly alter the perceived luxury and sportiness of the G80. The durability of powder coating, especially with the added clear coat, ensures this custom finish will last, resisting common road hazards and environmental factors better than standard paint jobs. While the exact Wheel Repair & Painting cost in Korea for this specific service can vary, similar wheel repair or alloy wheel refinishing services in the US typically range from $115–$150 per wheel, depending on the extent of damage and complexity of the finish. This wheel restoration process not only addresses cosmetic issues like curb rash repair but also enhances the overall appeal of the Genesis G80, making it a worthwhile investment for owners seeking a unique look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does wheel repair cost for a Genesis G80?
The specific cost for this Ghost Chrome refinishing in Korea was not detailed, but similar alloy wheel refinishing services in the US typically range from $115–$150 per wheel. This price can vary based on the extent of damage and the complexity of the desired finish.
Q. Can curb rash be fully repaired on Genesis G80 wheels?
Yes, curb rash and other surface damage on Genesis G80 wheels can be effectively repaired as part of the wheel restoration process. Proper repair and a durable powder coating with a clear coat can ensure the longevity of the finish, with regular cleaning recommended for maintenance.
Q. Is wheel repair or replacement cheaper for a Genesis G80?
Wheel repair and refinishing are generally significantly cheaper than replacing entire wheels for a Genesis G80. This service is ideal for owners looking to restore damaged wheels or achieve a custom look without the high cost of new rims.
Q. How is wheel curb rash repaired on a Genesis G80?
Wheel curb rash repair on a Genesis G80 involves several steps: first, the damaged area is meticulously filled and sanded smooth to restore the wheel's original contour. Then, the entire wheel is prepared via sandblasting, followed by the application of a durable powder-coated base layer, the custom color, and a protective clear coat.
Q. What is the difference between wheel refinishing and full replacement for a Genesis G80?
Wheel refinishing restores and repaints existing wheels, offering customization options like the Ghost Chrome finish seen here, at a lower cost than replacement. Full replacement involves purchasing entirely new wheels, which is typically much more expensive and usually only necessary if the wheel is structurally compromised beyond repair.
OhCar Partner Shop
