Signs Your Alloy Wheels Need Repair and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them

Alloy wheels do more than just enhance your car's appearance - they can significantly improve its performance. While wheels are often overlooked during repairs, it's becoming increasingly important to understand their condition and recognise when they need attention. Over time, alloy wheels can become scuffed, scratched, or tarnished, and neglecting this damage could lead to costly issues for both you and your vehicle. Below, we explore some of the key signs to watch out for and the steps you can take to ensure safety and proper maintenance.

Alloy Wheels & Importance of Repair

Alloy wheels are a popular type of wheel made from a blend of metals, typically aluminum and a small amount of other elements such as magnesium. This combination makes alloy wheels lighter, stronger, and more durable compared to traditional steel wheels. The main advantage of alloy wheels is their ability to provide better performance, improved fuel efficiency, and an aesthetically pleasing look for your vehicle.

Alloy wheels are typically a cost-effective expense due to the increased performance compared to other wheels as well as their typical longevity and lighter weight - overall reducing strain on your engine and increasing fuel efficiency.

What Types of Damage To Be Aware Of

Your wheels can certainly face some unavoidable wear and tear from the UK roads. So, what are you looking for? Alloy wheels are generally more prone to certain types of damage due to their material and exposure to the elements. Here are examples of ways your car may have taken impact:

1. Scratches and Scuffs

Curbs are the biggest culprit for this form of damage. Although it may seem minor, think of it like a wound - if it becomes bigger or deeper it can largely affect your wheel's appearance and can lead to rust or corrosion.

2. Bent or Deformed Wheels

Check especially after a journey where you are aware of hitting a pothole, curb, or other road hazard. Bent wheels can cause uneven tyre wear, vibration while driving, and poor handling.

3. Discolouration or Fading

Alloy wheels have gained popularity for their sleek, stylish appearance, so it would be a shame to let that appeal fade due to discoloration or wear. But the impact isn’t just cosmetic - corrosion can set in, weakening the metal over time. This dulling or fading of the original shine often results from prolonged exposure to sunlight, brake dust, or harsh road chemicals. To prevent further damage, consider having a professional inspect and restore your alloy wheels to their like-new condition.

4. Cracks

Similar to scratches and scuffs, this is a result of hitting potholes and other irritating road hazards that are hard to avoid. On the other hand, the severity of cracks compared to scuffs are opposite. It is a serious concern because they can compromise the integrity of the wheel, leading to potential tyre failure or, tyre leaks and in extreme cases, complete wheel failure. Cracks usually require replacement rather than refurbishment.

5. Severe Curb Rash

Following cracks, curb rash can also be severe. While curb rash can often be cosmetic, it can also result in damage to the wheel’s surface, creating areas of weakness and cracks if deep enough. In some cases, curb rash can lead to more serious structural damage.

What To Do If You Notice Any of These

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to address them quickly. Minor damage like scratches or less severe curb rash can often be repaired with a refurbishment, while cracks or bending may require more serious attention or even replacement. Regularly checking your alloy wheels for signs of damage will help maintain the aesthetics and safety of your vehicle. If in doubt, it’s always a good idea to have a professional inspect the wheels for any structural issues that might need specialised repair.

If you don’t notice or address damage to your alloy wheels early enough, you could be setting yourself up for a range of serious problems that could not only affect the performance of your vehicle but also compromise your safety.

Upgrade or Refurbish Your Alloy Wheels Today With Dinks Auto Body Repair in Peterborough

At Dinks Auto Body Repairs, we offer professional alloy wheel services tailored to your vehicle’s needs. Our experienced team uses the highest quality products and techniques to ensure your car looks its best and stays protected. For more information about our services, please give us a call today at 01733 687101. We also have an online enquiry form that you can complete, and a member of our team will be in touch with you as soon as possible.