I have a hubcap that's badly discolored and was wondering if anybody can point me in the right direction on how to fix it.

Thanks.

 

there are ones just like yours but in better condition on ebay

 

Thanks for the reply.. but I was hoping I can try to fix it first and as a last resort go to ebay.

 

These are just the plastic hubs right? I'd just sand them with a high grit (take your time do it right). Then prime them (don't skip this part you'll be sorry). Then paint them (thin coats as opposed to one heavy pass). Finish with a clear coat.

Having said all this, for your time, and money spent on materials, you might keep an eye open for replacements. I've seen them going cheap on eBay on many occasions.

 

Thanks Hadman.

Exactly what I was looking for.

Yes they are plastic.

Few more questions-

Where can I get the products you listed and what's the best way to get the correct color of the hubcap?

Thanks.

 

I would suggest any decent hardware store will carry all of the items you need.
If it's a small local store, it never hurts to strike up a conversation with the owner about your project. They ususally have all kinds of advice. If you're going to one of the bigger places like Home Depot, speak to a floorperson/expert in the paint department.
As for color matching, I would tend to think getting a correct paint code is nearly impossible. Though, the parts department at your local Nissan dealership might be able to find the code, but I think it's unimportant unless you are only doing 1 hubcap and absolutely have to match it. I'd just respray all 4 with a new color. Just pick a new grey/silver that appears close to the original color. Make sure it is a type of paint that can withstand the elements, like snow/salt.
You're never going to get the kind of finsih you would get on factory painted caps, as they are essentially baked in an oven to provide a hardened finish.
And finally, I just saw your cap going for $22 on eBay, so I guess 4 will bring you in close to $100 after shipping, etc. Maybe less if you are buying 4.
The materials for your project (if you do it right) will probably cost you half of that.
Is all the work it worth it?

 

man, that's a lot of work for a hubcap. Since I don't think they are actually painted in the first place (just colored plastic) you will probably have to paint all four to match exactly.

I would just plop down the $8 for a good one on ebay...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...spagename=WDVW

 

The auction will probably end a little higher than $8, but yeah, I was suggesting the same. If you had alloy rims then you might want to go to the trouble to restore them.
But maybe DragonMax just wants a project?

 

id pick up some paint and go nutts, the duplicolor wheel paint is great.