My courtesy car has a scratched alloy wheel. Can I fix it?

My courtesy car has a scratched alloy wheel, can I fix it is a common situation with repairer loan cars and hire cars in Australia. If you have scratched an alloy wheel on a courtesy car from a smash repairer or a hire car from Hertz, Avis or Budget, you should not try to fix it yourself with DIY touch-up without permission, because you may make it worse and be charged for improper repair. First, check your loan or rental agreement for damage policy. Most repairer courtesy cars have an excess of $1,500 to $3,000 for any damage, including alloy wheel scratches, and they will inspect car on return. Minor kerb rash on one alloy wheel may be considered fair wear and tear by some repairers if small, but most will charge you for repair. Alloy wheel repair costs $120 to $250 per wheel for cosmetic repair and repaint, or $300 to $600 for diamond-cut or machine-finished wheels. If you have a hire car from a rental company, alloy wheel damage is typically charged at full repair cost plus administration fee of $50 to $100, and it will be deducted from your credit card bond. If you purchased excess reduction for $20 to $35 per day, alloy damage may still be excluded from reduction and charged separately. The best approach is to notify the repairer or rental company immediately, take photos, and ask if they have a preferred wheel repairer. Do not ignore it, because if you return car without reporting, you may be charged higher costs and lose bond. If scratch is very minor, some repairers may waive fee for goodwill.