There are several instances that can cause alloy wheels to become damaged or even buckled, with some of the most common involving potholes, uneven road surfaces, speed bumps, and unexpectedly high kerbs.
The reality is that while alloy wheels are renowned for their lightweight finish and clean aesthetic, they are made from metal compounds which are pliable and therefore susceptible to damage with relative ease. This means that even the slightest knock can cause damage to not just the surface but to the structure of the alloy and the way it fits on the wheel.
In this blog, we’re looking at what drivers should do after this damage has occurred – covering the risks, next steps, and whether alloy wheels can be repaired or if they need to be scrapped.
Why is a Buckled Alloy Wheel Dangerous?
Driving on a buckled wheel can lead to a number of issues, from vibrations and excessive friction to uneven wear and even complete wheel failure. If the alloy wheel is bent or buckled out of shape, it affects the perfectly circular rotation of the wheel and leads to uneven wear – which over time can manifest itself into a bigger issue with damaged suspension, irreversible wheel alignment issues, and even the wheel buckling completely.
All things considered, driving on an alloy wheel which has become damaged and buckled is dangerous.
However, one of the issues facing many drivers is a simple lack of knowledge around when their alloy wheel is bucked and when they need to stop driving on it.
Signs My Alloy Wheel Has Buckled
The following are all signs that an alloy wheel has buckled and needs urgent attention…
- Visual warping or a bending of the metallic alloy
- Uneven tyre wear, which is otherwise unexplained
- A humming noise that sounds like it’s coming from the wheel
- Vibrations in the steering wheel or felt through the vehicle
All of these are signs that something isn’t right with your alloy wheel or wheel bearing. The best way to be sure is to book your vehicle in with a mechanic for a thorough check.
Can a Buckled Alloy Wheel Be Repaired?
With that said, what can be done with a buckled alloy wheel and is this an issue that can be effectively and safely repaired?
The ability to repair a buckled alloy wheel depends on the level and extent of damage. Buckles and dents need to be reversed and pressed out of the alloy to restore it to its regular shape – with damage that includes cracks or chips unable to be as easily fixed and therefore causing lasting issues with the safety of the wheel.
If repair is not possible, the alloy wheel will need to be replaced. This will be decided by the repair specialists who you take your vehicle to for repair.
Is Repair Cheaper Than Replacement?
Again, this largely depends on the extent of the damage. Repair can be a much cheaper option, though it is important to note that the damage may mean the alloy wheel is not as strong as it was prior to the incident.
If you decide to replace the alloy wheels, one final thing to note is that many suppliers will advise you to replace all four together – to maintain optimum stability, performance, and safety.
Here at Tyres.co.uk, we specialise in the rubber fitments that sit around the outside of your alloy wheels and protect them as much as possible from damage. Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle is an integral part of vehicle maintenance, with our site built to guide you through the process and ensure you select the best tyre brand, the best tyre type, and the right fit for your vehicle.
