Alloy Wheels FAQs: Understanding Types, Repairs, and Maintenance

Alloy wheels are a popular choice for many car owners due to their aesthetics, performance, and durability. However, questions about their care, repair, and functionality are common. This guide answers frequently asked questions about alloy wheels, covering their types, repair processes, and more.

Different Types of Alloy Wheels

Alloy wheels come in various styles and constructions, catering to different needs and preferences.

Cast Alloy Wheels

– Made by pouring molten aluminium or magnesium into a mold.
– Pros: Lightweight, cost-effective, and versatile in design.
– Cons: Prone to cracking under severe impact.

Forged Alloy Wheels

– Created by forging metal under high pressure.
– Pros: Stronger, lighter, and more durable than cast wheels.
– Cons: Expensive due to the manufacturing process.

Split Rim Wheels

– Constructed in multiple pieces (rim and centre).
– Pros: Easy to customise and repair.
– Cons: Expensive and can be heavier.

Diamond-Cut Alloy Wheels

– Feature a shiny, polished surface achieved through precision cutting.
– Pros: Attractive finish with sharp detailing.
– Cons: Delicate and more prone to damage.

Fixes for Issues:

– Most types of alloy wheels can be refurbished if damaged. Choose methods based on the wheel type, as not all wheels (e.g., diamond-cut ones) can endure extensive repair.

Can Alloy Wheels Be Painted?

Yes, alloy wheels can be painted, and it’s a popular method for refreshing their appearance or customising their look.

How It’s Done:

• Cleaning and Preparation: The wheel is cleaned and sanded to remove old paint or coatings.
  
  
• Priming and Painting: A primer is applied, followed by layers of durable paint, often finished with a clear coat for protection.

Causes of the Need for Painting:

• Scratches, chips, or corrosion affecting the wheel’s appearance.
  
  
• Desire for a custom colour or finish.

Painting your wheels:

This isn’t really something you would want to do yourself at home. This should be left to the experts. You can view more on our alloy wheel repairs here.

Can Alloy Wheels Be Powder Coated?

Powder coating is a popular method of protecting and customising alloy wheels.

What is Powder Coating?

• A dry powder is electrostatically applied to the wheel’s surface and then baked, forming a durable, attractive finish.

Benefits:

• Provides superior durability and resistance to chips and scratches.
  
  
• Available in a variety of colours and finishes (glossy, matte, metallic).

Causes of Powder Coating Requests:

• Wheels with extensive damage or worn finishes.
  
  
• Desire for a long-lasting, uniform appearance.

Fixes:

Professional powder coating services are recommended for the best results.

Can Alloy Wheels Be Straightened?

Yes, bent alloy wheels can often be straightened.

How It’s Done:

• The damaged wheel is placed on a specialist machine.
  
  
• Heat and hydraulic presses reshape the wheel to its original form.

Causes of Bent Wheels:

• Driving over potholes, kerbs, or other obstacles at speed.

Fixes:

• Professional repair technicians can straighten alloy wheels, but if the damage is extensive, replacement may be necessary.
  
  

Can Alloy Wheels Rust?

Alloy wheels do not rust in the traditional sense as they are made from aluminium or magnesium, which doesn’t corrode like steel. However, they can suffer from:

Corrosion:

• Caused by exposure to road salt, moisture, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
  
  
• Leads to pitting, flaking, or dull finishes.

Fixes:

• Regular cleaning and applying a protective wax can prevent corrosion.
  
  
• Light corrosion can often be polished out; severe damage may require refurbishment.
  
  

How Are Alloy Wheels Refurbished?

Refurbishment restores damaged or worn alloy wheels to like-new condition.

The Process:

1. Inspection: Assessing the damage to determine the best repair method.
   
   
2. Cleaning: Removing dirt, grease, and old coatings.
   
   
3. Repair: Filling cracks or dents and smoothing imperfections.
   
   
4. Finishing: Painting, powder coating, or diamond cutting to restore the surface.

Causes for Refurbishment:

• Kerb damage, corrosion, or general wear and tear.

Fixes:

Professional wheel refurbishment ensures longevity and maintains the wheel’s structural integrity.

How Are Diamond-Cut Wheels Refurbished?

Diamond-cut wheels require a specialised repair process due to their unique finish.

The Process:

• The damaged area is sanded down, and the wheel is refinished on a CNC lathe to achieve the characteristic sharp lines.
  
  
• A protective lacquer is applied to preserve the finish.

Causes of Damage:

• Scratches, chips, or corrosion due to exposure to road conditions.

Fixes:
It is worth noting that Diamond-cut wheels can only endure a limited number of refurbishments before the structural integrity is compromised. 

Final Thoughts

Caring for and maintaining alloy wheels is essential to preserve their appearance and functionality. Whether dealing with cosmetic concerns like paint or powder coating or addressing structural issues like bends and corrosion, professional repair services can extend the life of your wheels. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and applying protective coatings, will prevent many common problems and keep your alloy wheels looking their best.

Our team specialise in all aspects of alloy wheel refurbishments. If you would like a free wheel refurbishment quote, simply click the button below.