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.
Determining if refurbishment is worthwhile involves considering factors like:
For many damaged wheels, skilled repair offers an economical way to restore looks and extend usage life.
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.
Modern repair methods can successfully fix most of the typical alloy wheel damage drivers experience:
Severe damage involving multiple cracks or tears may require replacement. But the vast majority of everyday damage remains fully repairable.
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.
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.
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.
Though most damage is repairable, some cases do require new wheels:
In these instances, replacement maintains safety and proper fit. But they represent a small minority of damage scenarios.
To maximize cost savings and longevity from repaired wheels:
Quality refurbishment restores both function and flawless looks so you can keep your original wheels rolling.
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.