From First-to-Market in 2019 to Amazon #1: The Scratch Fix Story

Scratch Fix began with one practical question: why should a small wheel scratch or patch of curb rash automatically mean an expensive repair-shop visit?

In 2019, we introduced Wheel Scratch Fix as the first all-in-one DIY wheel touch-up kit of its kind—a simple system that put surface preparation, cleaning and controlled paint application into one package. That first-to-market idea grew into an Amazon top seller, reached the #1 position in the touch-up paint category, and helped millions of drivers make everyday cosmetic repairs more approachable.

Wheel Scratch Fix complete kit beside a gloss black alloy wheel, representing the brand's 2019 launch and DIY wheel repair history
From a focused wheel-repair idea in 2019 to a trusted DIY solution used by drivers across North America.

The Scratch Fix story at a glance

  • 2019: Wheel Scratch Fix launches as a first-to-market complete DIY wheel touch-up solution.
  • Amazon: The kit becomes a top seller and reaches #1 in the touch-up paint category.
  • Millions sold: Drivers choose Scratch Fix for quick, approachable cosmetic repairs at home.
  • Nationwide retail: Scratch Fix expands through AutoZone stores across the United States and Mexico.

Why Wheel Scratch Fix was created

Curb rash, rim scratches and small paint chips are common. A parking curb, tight garage entrance or road debris can leave a painted alloy wheel looking worn even when the rest of the vehicle is in excellent condition. Professional refinishing remains the right choice for bent, cracked or structurally damaged wheels—but many minor cosmetic scratches do not need that level of intervention.

Wheel Scratch Fix was designed for those smaller cosmetic repairs. The complete kit combines the key tools for a straightforward process: smooth the damaged edge, clean and mask the area, then apply thin coats of wheel touch-up paint. There is no need to remove the wheel or schedule a body-shop appointment for suitable surface damage.

Shop the complete Wheel Scratch Fix kit

From a 2019 launch to an Amazon #1 milestone

The early response confirmed that drivers wanted a wheel repair solution that felt understandable, complete and accessible. Wheel Scratch Fix became a top-selling Amazon product and historically reached the #1 ranking in the touch-up paint category. That growth was not built around making unrealistic promises. It came from solving a focused problem: helping everyday drivers improve the appearance of painted wheels with a kit made specifically for curb rash, scuffs and chips.

Since launch, millions of Scratch Fix kits have been sold. Customer questions, photos and repair experiences have also shaped the product line—more wheel colors, clearer instructions, dedicated wheel touch-up options and additional solutions for vehicle paint and bumpers.

Today, the original wheel kit remains our hero product because it represents what Scratch Fix is built to do: turn a frustrating cosmetic problem into a repair that feels possible.

Growing from online discovery to nationwide AutoZone availability

Amazon helped drivers discover Wheel Scratch Fix online. AutoZone helped bring the solution closer to drivers who prefer to shop locally, compare products in person or start a repair without waiting for delivery.

Wheel Scratch Fix kit outside an AutoZone store, representing retail availability across the United States and Mexico
Scratch Fix has expanded from an online success story to broad retail availability through AutoZone in the United States and Mexico.

As of August 29, 2026, AutoZone reported 6,863 stores in the United States and 1,001 stores in Mexico. Scratch Fix distribution across that network gives customers convenient access to wheel-repair products throughout both countries. Individual colors and local inventory can vary, so checking with your nearest store is recommended.

You can also view current Wheel Scratch Fix options on AutoZone.com or order directly from our complete online selection.

What problem does Wheel Scratch Fix solve?

Wheel Scratch Fix is a DIY cosmetic wheel repair kit for painted alloy wheels. It is intended for minor curb rash, surface scuffs, scratches and small chips. It helps smooth rough edges, prepare the repair area and add compatible touch-up color without removing the wheel.

It is not a structural wheel-repair product. A wheel that is cracked, bent, deeply gouged or losing air should be inspected by a qualified professional. Chrome, polished and machined-face wheels can also require specialized refinishing rather than ordinary touch-up paint.

How to choose the right Scratch Fix solution

  • For curb rash and scratches on painted wheels: choose the complete Wheel Scratch Fix kit. It includes the preparation and application tools for a three-step repair.
  • If you already have preparation supplies: choose Wheel Touch Up Paint for a focused color application.
  • For small chips and scratches on vehicle body paint: choose Paint Scratch Fix, available in universal color families designed for common automotive finishes.
  • For light bumper scratches and paint transfer: choose Bumper Scratch Fix.
  • For an exact factory paint code: explore our OEM touch-up paint options for select Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen colors.

Why a complete wheel touch-up kit matters

Good cosmetic results depend on preparation as much as paint. Painting directly over loose material, dirt or sharp damaged edges can make a repair more noticeable and less durable. A complete kit helps keep the process organized: sand only where needed, clean the surface, protect the surrounding finish and build coverage gradually with thin coats.

That is why Wheel Scratch Fix has remained the center of the brand since 2019. The goal is not merely to sell a paint pen. It is to give customers a practical repair system and the confidence to use it.

Ready to fix your wheel scratches?

Choose your wheel color, follow the easy three-step process and get support from the Scratch Fix team whenever you need it.

Find your Wheel Scratch Fix kit

Frequently asked questions

When did Wheel Scratch Fix launch?

Wheel Scratch Fix launched in 2019 as a first-to-market complete DIY kit created specifically for minor wheel scratches, curb rash, scuffs and chips.

Is Wheel Scratch Fix an Amazon bestseller?

Yes. Wheel Scratch Fix became a top seller on Amazon and historically reached #1 in the touch-up paint category. The brand has since sold millions of repair kits.

Where can I buy Wheel Scratch Fix?

You can buy the complete kit directly from ScratchFixProducts.com, find select products through AutoZone stores in the United States and Mexico, or visit the Wheel Scratch Fix Amazon listing.

Does Wheel Scratch Fix work on every wheel?

It is designed for suitable cosmetic damage on painted alloy wheels. It is not intended for structural damage, and chrome, polished or machined-face finishes can require professional refinishing. If you are unsure, send our support team a clear photo before beginning.

How do I choose a wheel touch-up color?

Compare your wheel in natural daylight and choose the closest finish family: gloss black, satin black, light silver, dark silver, anthracite or satin dark grey. Test a small inconspicuous area first and build coverage with thin coats.

Can I use Wheel Scratch Fix on car body paint?

The wheel kit is formulated and packaged for painted wheels. For minor chips and scratches on body panels, use Paint Scratch Fix or an exact paint-code touch-up option instead.


Sources and availability note: AutoZone store counts are from AutoZone’s official August 29, 2026 company update: 6,863 U.S. stores and 1,001 Mexico stores. Product selection and inventory can vary by location. Amazon rankings change over time; the #1 reference describes a historical Scratch Fix milestone.