Refurbishing your car’s worn alloy wheels can improve their appearance and performance. But how often can you do this? Usually, with careful handling, alloy wheels can undergo 2 to 3 quality refurbishments. However, several factors affect this frequency, including the wheel’s condition and the extent of damage. Let’s take a closer look at these aspects and understand the refurbishment process in detail.
What’s Alloy Wheel Refurbishment?
Alloy wheels can get scratched or damaged from daily driving, like hitting potholes or getting roughed up by bad weather.
Refurbishment isn’t just cosmetic; it also fixes damage that could affect how your wheels perform, ensuring they keep your car running safely and smoothly.
Factors That Affect How Many Times You Can Refurbish
- The wheel’s condition: Minor surface issues can be fixed several times, while major damage might make refurbishment a no-go.
- Type of damage: Cosmetic fixes are simpler than structural ones, which can be a safety hazard.
- Quality of past work: If previous refurbishments were done well, you might be able to refurbish again.
The Refurbishment Process in Detail
Refurbishment is not a single-step process. Here’s how it typically goes:
- Quick Check: We take a good look at your wheels to see what kind of shape they’re in. If they’re too far gone, we might suggest getting new ones, but usually, we can just give them a new lease on life.
- Cleaning & De-Greasing: This is where your wheels get a thorough clean-up. Every part of the wheel is meticulously cleaned to wash away road grime and brake dust.
- Damage Repair: Then comes the actual repair stage. Scratches are smoothed out, dents are rectified, and the wheel is re-shaped to fix any deformations. We aim to restore the wheel to be as close as possible to its original state.
- Re-Spray & Refinish: The final step is to coat the wheel with paint or a quality powder coating to give it that glossy showroom finish.
How Many Times Can You Refurbish an Alloy Wheel?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If the damage is minor and only on the surface, your wheel can likely be refurbished multiple times. However, significant structural damage or serious warps can mean refurbishing is no longer safe—or even possible.
On average, a wheel can handle 2 to 3 good refurbishments before the structural integrity starts to decrease.
Warning signs that a wheel should not be refurbished again include:
- Deep cracks that compromise the wheel’s structure.
- Severe rust that has eaten deep into the wheel.
- Past repairs have weakened the wheel’s structure.
Remember that each refurbishment strips away a bit of the wheel, potentially weakening it over time.
Maintenance Tips for Extending the Life of Refurbished Alloy Wheels
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of refurbished alloy wheels, maximising the value and safety they offer. Here are some tips for maintaining your refurbished wheels:
- Clean Regularly: Just soap and water will do, keeping off brake dust and salts that can corrode the wheel.
- Choose the Right Cleaners: Stay away from harsh chemicals and rough tools.
- Inspections: Keep an eye out for new damage.
- Drive Carefully: Steer clear of tough terrain like gravel.
Costs and Time Considerations
Every driver loves his car but is also mindful of costs. The attractive part about alloy-wheel refurbishment is that it’s quite a bit cheaper than buying a brand-new set of alloy wheels. Prices can vary depending on your wheel’s condition, size, and the extent of the damage, but you can rest assured it’s a budget-friendly alternative.
As for time, depending on the refurbishment service you go to, it can take anywhere between a few hours to a day per wheel.
Can You Do It Yourself?
Can you? Yes, with a DIY repair kit. Should you? Probably not. Here’s why: DIY kits are not professional fixes but temporary solutions for minor issues. They might come in handy to fix a scratch or two but won’t help you deal with the more serious, structural issues. Refurbishment is not just about fixing damage but also about ensuring the refurbishment doesn’t damage the wheel itself. Plus, you miss out on the professional finish you’d get at a service centre.
In Summary
Refurbishing alloy wheels can save you money and keep your car looking sharp and valuable. Just make sure to get it done professionally to ensure safety and a smooth ride. A little care now can prevent bigger expenses down the road.
FAQs
Can alloy wheels be fixed if damaged?
Yes, especially for minor cosmetic issues. But for bigger damage, it’s important to go to a pro to ensure safety.
How much does it cost to refurbish an alloy wheel?
It varies, depending on damage and wheel size. It’s generally a budget-friendly option.
Is refurbishing alloy wheels worth it?
Yes, for both the looks and the value of your car. It’s cost-effective compared to buying new wheels.
How long does it take to refurbish an alloy wheel?
From a few hours to a full day, depending on the repair type and process.
Do DIY alloy wheel repair kits work?
They’re okay for small, temporary fixes. For the best quality and long-term solutions, you’ll want professional refurbishment.
Can potholes damage alloy wheels?
Definitely. Potholes can bend, crack, or chip the wheels, so try to avoid them and keep your tyres properly inflated.
