Damage to your alloy wheels is something that usually needs amending as quickly as possible. Failure to do so will leave your car looking a mess, but can also lead to some safety complications.
It can be difficult to determine whether you should go for an expert repair job, or if you need a wheel, or multiple, replaced entirely. A wheel replacement can be costly, which is why most people look for repairs where possible. So, if you’re struggling to decide which to go for, look no further than this blog post.
Different types of alloy damage
Alloy damage can come in a number of forms. Some are more severe than others, but in most cases, it’s very important to seek repair or speak to a professional as soon as you notice it. Below is a list of some of the more common alloy damage types:
- Kerb Rash – A very common type of alloy damage caused when your car scrapes against the kerb, usually whilst parking. It can also be caused through contact with another vehicle.
- Buckled alloys – Shown as dents and/or bends in your alloys, buckled wheels can cause excessive shaking and reduce handling. It is not recommended at all to drive on a buckled alloy, as they can inhibit suspension and steering.
- Cracked alloys – Whilst it might sound like common sense, cracked alloys simply refer to wheels which have visible cracks in them. However, it is important to note that cracked alloys are very different from scuffed or scratched alloys, and the safety concerns are equally important to consider. Cracked alloys are a serious safety issue due to the structural damage cracks can cause.
- Scuffed alloys – Wheels which have visible scratches, scrapes or scuffs. This is often not the most detrimental form of damage when it comes to safety, but over time, damage can worsen and turn into bigger issues. Equally, scuffed alloys have a big impact on the aesthetic value of your vehicle.
Pros and Cons of wheel repair
When considering your options, it’s useful to understand some of the pros and cons of every availability:
Pros:
- Cost efficient – A professional repair job is much cheaper than paying for a full wheel replacement, particularly if you’re dealing with more minor damage.
- Environmental impact – Wheel repair eliminates the need for an entirely new wheel to be used, which reduces demand and helps save resources.
- Convenience – It can be difficult to find a matching alloy for replacement. Alloy repair can be done at any of our partner garages across the country, making it much simpler and easier.
Cons:
- Gradual wear – Any wheel which has been repaired multiple times is more susceptible to further damage. Your wheel might be near the end of its lifespan and need replacing soon anyway.
- Safety concerns – Poorly repaired wheels could inhibit structural integrity and cause safety issues. Be sure to use a trusted and professional wheel repair provider (such as Alloy Wheel Repair Services) before you proceed.
Pros and Cons of wheel replacement
Pros:
- Warranty – New wheels often come with a warranty, which is handy thanks to the peace of mind you’ll get.
- Aesthetic upgrade – Assuming you replace the entire set of alloys, you can opt for a new aesthetic, or even replace with the same wheels, but they’ll be in pristine condition. This is of course a very expensive process, and usually isn’t worth the money it costs.
Cons:
- Expensive – Replacing a wheel instead of seeking repair is a very expensive choice, which usually isn’t even necessary.
- Sourcing difficulty – Finding a perfectly matching wheel is often challenging, which drives costs up even more, and takes more time for the whole process.
Wheel replacement vs repair costs
It really does depend on the damage your wheel has sustained, but almost every time, professional repair is going to be significantly cheaper than a full replacement. For example, minor to moderate repairs are likely to cost £50 – £150, and even more major repairs normally won’t go above £250.
When compared to the minimum few hundred that a brand new alloy costs alone, plus the expenses associated with professional fitting, repair seems like the logical option every time.
When do I need a wheel repair?
You should seek alloy wheel repair as soon as you notice any kinds of damage, even more minor types. This is because minor damage can spiral into more major concerns, which would then inhibit safety.
Some signs of damage to look out for include visible damage, poor handling, drifting, unexpected noises or ‘moaning’ from your vehicle, and steering wheel vibration.
When should I choose wheel replacement over repairs?
We would only recommend a wheel replacement over repairs if the wheel is so badly damaged that it is beyond repair, or if you are looking to make the investment and upgrade your full set of wheels for a new aesthetic. Otherwise, repair is a great choice, every time.