How To Refurbish Alloy Wheels

Tired of looking at scuffed, scratched, or worn-out alloy wheels? Over time, everyday driving can take its toll, leaving your wheels looking dull and damaged. But don’t worry, refurbishing them can restore their sleek, high-end look while also protecting them from further wear and corrosion. 

While DIY solutions exist, achieving a long-lasting finish requires the right expertise, tools, and techniques. That’s where professional refurbishment comes in. In this guide, we’ll explore how alloy wheel refurbishment works and why trusting experts can save you time,  and effort ensuring showroom-quality results.

When Do My Alloys Need Refurbishing?

Before looking into how to refurbish, it's important to know what to look out for beforehand. You’ll know it’s time to refurbish your alloy wheels when you start noticing visible signs of wear and damage. Scuffs, scratches, and curb rash are some of the most common indicators, often caused by everyday driving and accidental contact with curbs.

If your wheels appear dull, faded, or discoloured, this could be due to prolonged exposure to UV rays, brake dust, and road grime. More serious signs, such as corrosion, bubbling paint, or oxidation, suggest that the protective coating has worn off, making refurbishment essential to prevent further deterioration.

Additionally, if you experience vibrations while driving or difficulty maintaining tyre pressure, it could indicate structural damage like bends or cracks in the alloy, which require immediate attention for safety reasons. Regular inspections and cleaning can help prolong the life of your alloys, but if any of these issues persist, professional refurbishment is the best way to restore both their appearance and performance.

And How Often?

How often alloy wheels need refurbishing depends on several factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and how well they are maintained. Generally, alloy wheels do not need frequent refurbishment unless they sustain noticeable damage or wear. However, those listed above, are the main causes of the issue and are certainly ones to take to a professional if noticed. Aside from those, before you sell a vehicle, alloy refurbishment can boost a car's resale value!

Where To Repair

If your wheels have light scuffs or minor surface wear, you can clean them thoroughly, sand out small scratches, and apply a touch-up paint or sealant to protect them. However, for deeper damage, corrosion, or structural issues, professional help is always the best option to maintain safety and durability. 

Why Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Matters

Preserving your alloy wheels is very important for many reasons. Your alloy wheels provide excellent aesthetics but more importantly, the safety of your vehicle could depend on the longevity of your wheels. 

Alloy wheels are exposed to constant wear and tear from road conditions, weather, and everyday driving. Scratches, scuffs, and more not only make them look worn out but can also affect their performance. Here are some more reasons why alloy refurbishment matters:

Restores Appearance – Removes scuffs, scratches, and corrosion for a like-new finish.

Prevents Further Damage – Protects against oxidation and structural weakening.

Enhances Safety – Ensures wheels are free from cracks or damage that could affect handling.

Extends Lifespan – Keeps wheels in top condition, avoiding premature replacements.

Improves Resale Value – Well-maintained wheels make a car more attractive to buyers.

Cost-Effective – Refurbishment is a much cheaper alternative to replacing alloy wheels.

What Alloy Damage Calls For Professional Care?

Certain types of alloy wheel damage require professional refurbishment to ensure safety, durability, and a high-quality finish. Here are the key issues that call for expert attention:

1. Deep Scratches & Gouges

• Minor scuffs can often be polished out, but deep scratches or gouges that expose the metal beneath the paint or lacquer require professional refinishing to restore the surface and prevent corrosion.

2. Bent Wheels

• If an alloy wheel is bent due to hitting a pothole or curb, it can cause vibrations, uneven tyre wear, and handling issues. Professionals use specialised equipment to reshape and balance the wheel correctly.

3. Cracks in the Alloy

• Small cracks may not seem serious, but they can weaken the wheel’s structure, making it unsafe to drive on. Professional welders can repair minor cracks, but in severe cases, a replacement may be necessary.

4. Corrosion & Oxidation

• When the protective coating wears off, moisture and road salt can cause oxidation, leading to pitting and corrosion. Professionals can strip, treat, and recoat the wheel to prevent further damage.

5. Peeling or Flaking Paint

• If the finish on your alloys is peeling or bubbling, a full refurbishment is needed. Professionals can sandblast, repaint, and apply a protective coating for a factory-fresh look.

6. Persistent Air Leaks

• If your tyres lose air despite no visible punctures, the issue could be with the wheel’s rim. Corrosion or damage to the bead seat can prevent a proper seal, requiring professional refurbishment.

7. Severe Curb Damage

• Heavy curbing damage can lead to uneven surfaces, sharp edges, or even structural weakening. A professional repair ensures the wheel is smooth, balanced, and safe for driving.

If your alloy wheels show any of these signs, it’s best to seek expert help rather than risk further deterioration or potential safety hazards.

What Will Expert Fixing Consist Of?

When you take your alloy wheels to a professional, there are key steps they will always follow to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting finish.

Thorough Inspection

Every professional service begins with a full inspection to assess the extent of damage. They will check for scratches, scuffs, corrosion, bends, cracks, or any structural weaknesses that need attention.

Stripping & Cleaning

The wheels are stripped of their existing paint, lacquer, or corrosion using chemical treatments or blasting techniques. This ensures a clean surface for repair and refinishing.

Damage Repair

Any curb damage, deep scratches, or surface imperfections are smoothed out. Bent wheels are reshaped using specialised equipment, and minor cracks may be welded to restore strength.

Priming & Protection

A corrosion-resistant primer is applied to seal the wheel and protect it from future wear, ensuring the new finish adheres properly.

Repainting or Powder Coating

Professionals will either repaint or powder-coat the wheels in your chosen finish, followed by protective lacquer to enhance durability and give a factory-fresh appearance.

Final Checks & Balancing

Before returning the wheels, they will be rebalanced to ensure smooth performance and even tyre wear. A final quality check ensures they meet professional standards.

No matter the level of damage, these key steps will always be followed in a professional refurbishment to ensure your alloy wheels look and perform at their best.

Trusted Alloy Wheel Refurbishments - Dinks Auto Body Repairs

If you require alloy refurbishments or have general queries about your vehicle, contact us at Dinks Auto Body Repair for expert advice and service. As one of the leading repair shops in Peterborough, you can be sure that our knowledge and expertise will leave your vehicle in good hands. Let us take a look, saving you time and costs - don’t hesitate to seek professional help when it comes to your vehicle!