Introduction
Have you ever been moving down the road and seen a chipped or cracked wheel? Well, you’re not alone. Alloy wheels are the most typical variety of rim for vehicles in America, so it’s not surprising that they break or chip. Repairing alloys is quite easy if you know what to look for when doing it yourself. Today we’re going to talk about what exactly goes into repairing alloy wheels at home, as well as some tips on how to do it successfully! Alloy wheel damage repair is a place must visit.
Understanding the Wheel
Alloy wheels are made of an aluminium alloy, a combination of different metals. They are more lightweight than steel wheels and more durable. Alloy wheels can be polished to a high shine and often come with an aftermarket warranty. The majority of cars today use alloy wheels, including:
- Audi
- BMW
- Mercedes-Benz
- Volkswagen
Fixing Cracks and Gouges
Repairing cracks and gouges is one of the most common types of wheel damage. A crack or gouge can be repaired by filling the hole with a filler. The filters are available in different colours to match the wheel and come in both metal and plastic compounds, depending on your preference. A good choice for fixing this type of damage would be an epoxy filler because it is easy to use, has high durability, and comes in many different colours that will blend with all types of wheels.
Fixing Minor Damage
It’s no surprise that many people are hesitant to attempt repairs on their own alloy wheels. After all, it seems as though there are a million tiny bolts and screws, and who knows how to tighten them properly? But if you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, it can actually be really easy to repair minor damage.
For rough damage, like large scrapes or chips, the method is simple: use an all-purpose adhesive, like super glue, to fill in the nicks. The only real trick is avoiding having any air bubbles between the damaged area and the adhesive. You can either blow the excess air out of the crack after you’ve applied the glue (don’t force air in; just gently exhale), or you can apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly first to get rid of any crevices that might trap air when you squeeze the adhesive out of its tube. Then set a heavy book on top of the affected area for about 15 minutes.
For more severe damage, like splits in the metal or cracks that go deeper than about half an inch, there are two steps you’ll need to take: first, fix any rusted or exposed areas, and then strengthen or replace the outer layer of your wheel, for exposed areas.
Alloy Wheel Refurbishment
We’ve all been there: you buy a new car, and after a few months of driving around, its alloy wheels start looking pretty scuffed up. It happens over time to most cars—you’re out in the elements, after all. And you only want to wash your car so often—but some owners get tired of looking at the dullness. If you’re one of them, you might want to consider getting your wheels repaired or refurbished.
What is alloy wheel refurbishment? This type of maintenance involves stripping off the existing finish on your rims and then applying a new layer of paint or other protective coatings that will resist corrosion and keep your rims looking shiny and new.
Here are occasional items you should know about this process:
-Not all wheels can be refurbished: not every alloy wheel is able to be restored to its former glory. It’s important to know what kind of finish is on your rims before investing in refurbishment services at MOT test center. If they have already oxidised through repeated exposure to saltwater. Or chemicals (like chrome), there’s nothing a repairman can do to bring them back. You should know someone who can do it: If you’re considering getting your wheels repaired or refurbished, it’s best if you can.
Here is What to Look at When Repairing Your Wheel
When repairing your alloy wheels, there are a few things you need to know. First, what is the alloy wheel made of? In addition, what are the different types of alloy wheels? What are some benefits of repairing them? And finally, how can you assess the damage and repair it in a safe way?
Conclusion
When it comes down to it, alloy wheels are a lot more complex than they seem. They consist of many different parts that all need to work together in order for the wheel to be safe and functional. If you’re interested in learning more about repairing alloy wheels. Or just want some tips on how to keep them looking brand new, then check our tips and follow those.
