Cracked alloy wheel repair can be a confusing process for car owners. Many are left with a number of questions like: ‘why have my alloy wheels cracked,’ and ‘can I repair cracked alloy wheels myself?’
At Alloy Wheel Repair Services, we have the answers to your questions, and our goal is to help you understand your options.
What are cracked alloys?
Cracked alloys are alloy wheels that have visible cracks in them. This may sound obvious, but it is important to understand that cracked and scuffed/scratched alloys are not the same thing. Cracked alloys present a more immediate threat to those in a vehicle, causing issues such as a loss in tyre pressure, difficulty handling the vehicle, and in some cases even total structural failure of the wheel.
It is highly inadvisable to drive with cracked alloy and, depending on the extent of the crack, you should probably only be driving on a cracked alloy if that journey ends at a garage.
What causes cracked alloys?
Cracked alloys are commonly caused by impacts such as the wheel hitting a kerb, or by bumping over a pothole (unavoidable in some parts of the UK unfortunately).
They can also be caused by incorrect air pressure levels in tyres, and even through general road conditions and corrosion. For this reason, it is important to check the condition of your alloy wheels regularly, as well as driving safely to avoid any major damage.
Can I repair cracked alloys at home?
In short, no. You cannot repair cracked alloy wheels at home. Repairing cracked alloys is a highly specialised process which will usually need to be done through professional alloy wheel technicians.
Also, it is unlikely you have the equipment required to repair cracked alloys yourself. Most repair jobs require welding, a specific technique which needs, of course, a welder. Even if you did want to repair a cracked alloy at home, after gathering the necessary tools and materials, it would probably just have been cheaper to go to one of our professional Alloy Wheel Repair specialists.
How are Cracked Alloys Repaired?
Cracked alloys are repaired using a variety of techniques such as welding, metal or plastic filling, or patching techniques. The method of repair varies based on the severity and specific nature of damage. The worst cracks usually require welding or metal reinforcement.
Here is a list and explanation of the different methods of repairing cracked alloy wheels:
- TIG Welding – TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding employs a pointed tungsten rod alongside an electrode filler to meticulously fill cracks. This is a highly skilled process and requires a very capable technician, but the results are very precise and neat.
- MIG Welding – MIG (metal inert gas) welding makes use of a combined electrode with a wire filler rod. This means it is much faster than TIG welding, but less precise. After welding, the wire will need grinding or sanding to acquire a smooth finish.
- Metal Reinforcement – If your alloy has a larger or more serious crack, it may need extra metal reinforcement to increase structural integrity. This involves additional metal being applied to the welding site, before being sanded down to finish.
- Fillers – If metal reinforcement is not required, a plastic filler will be used to finish off the repair. This is largely for visual purposes. A liquid plastic-based filler is applied to the site of the crack which then slowly hardens. After this, the filler will be sanded down, and finishing touches such as polishing or painting are carried out.
Alloy Wheel Repair near me
We are partnered with a number of alloy repair specialists local to you.