When it comes to alloy wheel damage, prevention is always greater than cure. The problem is, it can prove very difficult to identify when your wheels aren’t right.
In many instances, tyres and rims may appear to look almost as good as new on the surface, but a closer look can lead to some troublesome revelations.
The impact of alloy wheel damage can be devastating when it isn’t addressed promptly and appropriately, and it can cost a small fortune. With this in mind, it’s crucial that you know a bit about the red flags for damaged alloys so, here are the warning signs you should watch out for.
What is alloy wheel damage?
Alloy wheel damage is defined by cosmetic or structural issues with the metal rims on your vehicle. There are a number of different types of alloy wheel damage, though common types include:
- Kerb rash
- Corrosion
- Cracks
- Buckles
Alloy damage generally needs professional repairs from the experts, such as the team at DA Techs. Check out our alloy wheel guide for more information.
Why are healthy alloys important?
As well as giving your car an impressive, head-turning aesthetic, healthy alloy wheels add structural integrity to the vehicle and even improve driving quality.
Damaged alloy wheels don’t just affect the look of the car. When alloy wheels aren’t at their best, it places added pressure on the rest of the vehicle. Damaged alloys can put additional strain on your engine, and even reduce fuel efficiency.
Common causes of alloy damage
Alloy damage can be caused by a variety of factors or incidents, many of which may not seem very severe upfront:
- High impact collision – Bouncing against a kerb or another vehicle at speed may dislodge the alloy and peel away protective layering. This allows dust, debris and damp to get inside.
- Speedbumps/potholes – Driving over speedbumps/potholes too quickly can cause significant structural damage.
- Corrosion/oxidation – Long term exposure to moisture, road salt and harsh conditions can lead to discoloration and weakened structural integrity.
- Brake dust build-up – The accumulation of brake dust can cause corrosion over time.
- Improper cleaning – Using acidic wheel cleaners or improper alloy wheel cleaning can strip protective layers.
When it comes to looking after your wheels, you can never be too careful, so be sure to book in a check-up if you’ve had any kind of accident.
The warning signs of damaged alloys
There are various symptoms of damaged alloy wheels. Some of them might appear surprising, and many drivers often mistake them as being harmless or related to a different area of the car entirely.
The first warning sign:
You should look out for tyres constantly deflating, as damaged rims can lead to slow and inconsistent leaks through improper seals. On top of this, vibrations in the steering wheel/in general can point to bent/buckled wheels or rims.
Another common warning sign:
A warning sign of alloy damage includes handling issues. Unstable steering or consistently pulling to one side might indicate damage on a specific side of the vehicle.
Listen out for:
Further to handling issues and vibrations, it’s important to listen for thumping or rattling sounds during driving. Unusual noises can be one of the main signals of alloy damage.
Visual check:
Finally, a quick visual inspection of your alloy wheels allows you to spot cracks, kerb rash, corrosion or buckles quickly and easily.
How alloy wheel damage is repaired with DA Techs
The team at DA Techs can pinpoint and repair problems before they cause considerable damage, saving you money in the long run. By visiting us for regular check-ups, you can take advantage of expert advice on how to fix scratched aluminium wheels whilst enjoying high-quality alloy wheel repair for a fraction of the price.
Bring in your car today and our team can take a look at the current condition of your alloy wheel rims.