How to paint plastic wheel centre caps gloss black

The Problem

Matte plastic centre caps looked wrong against steel smoothie wheels and the owner wanted a gloss black finish that would not peel off plastic. Standard paint applied directly to plastic without preparation typically flakes, so a correct priming method was needed.

Solution

1. Rub down the plastic centre caps all over with a scotch bright pad to key the surface.
2. Apply Halfords plastic primer as a base coat and allow to dry fully.
3. Paint with gloss black top coat.
4. Apply acrylic lacquer as a final seal coat.
   • The poster chose acrylic lacquer specifically because it gives a harder, more durable finish than standard clear coat.
5. The finish has withstood multiple jet washes without lifting.