A light cosmetic scrape may be little more than untidy. A hard impact can also damage the tyre, bend the wheel or disturb alignment.
Look at the tyre beside the mark
Cuts, bulges or exposed cords matter far more than scratched lacquer. Damage to the wheel rim should also be checked for cracking or distortion.
Four battered wheels tell you something
Repeated heavy kerbing may suggest the car has spent a hard life in tight urban parking. It does not condemn the car, but it is a reason to inspect tyres, steering and suspension carefully.
Price refurbishment realistically
If immaculate wheels matter to you, obtain a realistic refurbishment cost rather than mentally treating the damage as free to fix.
If kerbing suggests harder use, inspect the car more closely and make sure the final price still works once insurance and likely repairs are included.
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