Are Alloy Wheels Worth Repairing?

    Photo by Artur Aldyrkhanov

    Alloy wheels are prized for enhancing a car’s looks and performance. But the lightweight metals also mean they’re more prone to damage from scrapes, potholes and curbs compared to steel wheels.

    Faced with dented and scuffed alloy rims, many drivers instinctively think replacement is the only option. However, professional alloy wheel repair provides an effective and affordable way to fix most damage – saving hundreds of pounds versus new wheels.

    Weighing the Value of Repair

    Determining if refurbishment is worthwhile involves considering factors like:

    • Repair cost versus new wheels
    • Extent of damage
    • Wheel rarity or uniqueness
    • Effect on car’s appearance
    • Impact on wheel function

    For many damaged wheels, skilled repair offers an economical way to restore looks and extend usage life.

    Cost Savings of Repair

    Professional alloy wheel repair performed by a specialist typically costs £40-£70 per wheel. This covers inspection, straightening or welding, repainting, and refitting – depending on damage extent.

    Compare that to £200+ per wheel for a new replacement, not including tyres and fitting. Repairing preserves hundreds of pounds in value versus new wheels.

    Labour warranties also protect against the small risk of a repair defect emerging later. Overall, the huge cost savings make repair very appealing.

    Repairability of Damage Types

    Modern repair methods can successfully fix most of the typical alloy wheel damage drivers experience:

    • Dents and scrapes – Hammered out and repainted
    • Cracks and splits – Welded at the molecular level
    • Bends – Hydraulically straightened within 1-2mm tolerance
    • Corrosion – Pitted areas smoothed and re-lacquered

    Severe damage involving multiple cracks or tears may require replacement. But the vast majority of everyday damage remains fully repairable.

    Value of Rare and Unique Wheels

    Owners of rare or unique wheel designs have extra incentive to repair. Replacing one-off or vintage rims with generic wheels reduces a car’s uniqueness.

    Repair preserves the original wheels along with the car’s character. Vintage Minilite or BBS racing wheels can’t simply be ordered again – repair is the only route.

    The high value placed on rare OEM wheels makes moderate repair costs easily justifiable.

    Restoring Appearance

    Scratched and rashed alloy wheels visibly detract from a car’s looks, hurting resale appeal. Repair provides a cost-effective way to restore flawless visual appeal.

    Specialists restore the wheel’s original factory finish by color matching and precision respraying. Refinishing also removes nicks and discoloration from age and use.

    Repaired wheels again complement the vehicle’s bodywork rather than drawing the eye to unsightly damage.

    Preserving Performance

    Dents and bends seem like cosmetic damage at first glance. But even minor deformation can throw off wheel balance, causing annoying vibrations and uneven tyre wear.

    Precision straightening realigns the wheel to eliminate vibrations that chip away at steering components and suspension. Proper repairs maintain your vehicle’s handling and ride comfort.

    When Replacement Becomes Necessary

    Though most damage is repairable, some cases do require new wheels:

    • Severe cracking spanning large portions of the wheel
    • Multiple previous repairs indicating metal fatigue
    • Extensive corrosion pitting that weakens the structural integrity
    • Cracks or damage to main load-bearing spokes
    • Incorrect sizing or bolt patterns

    In these instances, replacement maintains safety and proper fit. But they represent a small minority of damage scenarios.

    Partner with a Reputable Repair Shop

    To maximize cost savings and longevity from repaired wheels:

    • Select a shop with specialist accreditation
    • Check sample repairs to verify quality
    • Ensure they use advanced techniques and finishes

    Quality refurbishment restores both function and flawless looks so you can keep your original wheels rolling.

    Preserve Value through Repair

    Before consigning damaged alloy wheels to the scrap pile, consider repair. In most cases, it provides substantial cost savings over replacement while fully restoring appearance and roadworthiness.

    Working with a wheel repair specialist, you can likely get decades more service life out of your existing alloys. Investing a small amount into professional repair offsets the need to spend much more on new wheels.