Is It Worth Refurbishing Alloy Wheels? Evaluating The Advantages Of Alloy Wheel Repair

Posted on: 01 Oct, 2024

Alloy wheels are quite popular among car owners as they look neat and allow various styles. However, over time, they may lose lustre quickly due to the accumulation of brake dust, oxidation and general wear and tear. As a result, many car owners in the UK consider refurbishing their alloy wheels to restore them to their original glory. But is it worth refurbishing alloy wheels? Let's explore what benefits you can get from this process to decide the right choice for your wheels.

What Are Alloy Wheels?

Alloy wheels are indeed made from a metal alloy, typically aluminium. This is because aluminium alloys have an advantage over traditional steel wheels. They are often lighter in weight, offering easy handling and saving fuel. Alloys can be customised to match your car's exterior colour, or a contrasting colour can also make them stand out.

Why Do Alloys Need Refurbishment?

Due to exposure to moisture, alloys oxidise and undergo corrosion over time, diminishing their shine and affecting their longevity. Refurbishment uses abrasive and polishing compounds to remove any oxidation or corrosion, as well as dust and mud, from the surface of the alloy, restoring it to look brand new. Refurbishment protects the alloys and enhances their longevity.

The Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Process

The refurbishment process for alloy wheels involves multiple steps, which are listed below:

1. Initial Preparation:

   The first step of the refurbishment process involves thoroughly cleaning and inspecting the wheels for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches or cracks.

2. Stripping:

   The old paint or coating is removed from the wheels using specialised stripping agents or mechanical methods. This step is essential to ensure the wheels are clean and have an even surface, preparing them for further treatment.

3. Repair:

   Experts repair any wheel damage once the old paint is removed. This involves fixing dents, scratches, or curb rash using dent removal, filling, or welding techniques.

4. Sanding and Smoothing:

   After the repair, the wheels' surface is sanded to smooth them and remove any imperfections, preparing them for new paint or coating.

5. Painting Or Coating:

   Once the surface is smoothened, a new paint or coating is applied to the wheels. This can be done using traditional painting methods or powder coating. Powder coating is popular for alloy wheel refurbishment because it provides a durable and long-lasting finish.

6. Curing:

   The paint or coating is allowed to cure(dry). This may involve baking the wheels in an oven to ensure the finish is fully set and hardened.

7. Final Touches:

   Once the paint is cured, the wheels are polished and inspected to ensure they are free of any defects. The final touches may also include applying a protective sealant or wax to help maintain the finish.

When To Consider Alloy Wheel Refurbishment

It's a good idea to consider alloy wheel refurbishment if:

1. Scuffing, dents or scratches have damaged your car’s wheel rims or outer surfaces. Many people think a small scratch or a scrape on the alloy wheel’s rim would not require any repair. However, it stresses the wheels, making professional maintenance necessary.

2. Your wheels have been heavily oxidised or corroded, making professional help necessary. Various factors, such as harsh weather conditions, road salt, or off-road driving, can cause corrosion.

3. Your alloy wheels have lost their shine due to wear and tear. Brake dust, dirt, or other common contaminants can cause this.

4. You feel your wheels are affecting your car's performance or safety. Damaged alloy wheels can compromise your car's performance by affecting its brakes and overall safety. Such incidents can result in unusual noises or vibrations. This makes getting your wheels checked a smart move.

Is It Worth Refurbishing Alloy Wheels? The Advantages It Brings For You

There are many benefits to refurbishing your alloy wheels, and improved aesthetics is only one. Here are some of the benefits of choosing alloy wheel repair:

1. Enhanced Safety

   Refurbished alloy wheels can drastically improve your car's safety. By repairing any structural damage and restoring the wheels' integrity, they ensure that your tyres are properly balanced and aligned, preventing potential accidents.

2. Better Performance

   Car owners prefer alloy wheels because they are lightweight, save fuel, and provide better acceleration. However, over time, these wheels may accumulate dust and mud and become heavier than their original weight, impacting the vehicle's overall performance. Refurbishing alloy wheels helps restore them to their original condition, thus improving your car’s performance.

3. Enhanced Aesthetics

   Refurbished alloy wheels will give your car a brand-new look. Whether you bring back the original finish or opt for a colour change, it will give your wheels a new life, making them pop and stand out.

4. Increased Resale Value

   Keeping your alloy wheels in good condition will significantly increase the resale value of your car. A shiny set of wheels can add curb appeal to most vehicles, making them more attractive and giving the impression that your car has been well-looked.

5. Cost-Effective

   In most cases, refurbishment is cheaper than purchasing utterly new alloy wheels. You can save significant money by investing in refurbishment, extending your wheels' lifespan

Is It Worth Refurbishing Alloy Wheels? Advantages For The Environment

Refurbishing alloy wheels is worth it for enhancing your vehicle’s appearance and is a responsible act towards the environment. By choosing refurbishment, you are committing to a greener world in several ways:

1. Reducing Waste

   Refurbishing old wheels means extending their life without investing in new ones. Hence, the need for new wheel production is reduced, and so is the amount of waste generated, particularly the number of wheels discarded.

2. Conserving Resources

   Manufacturing new alloy wheels requires considerable materials, including aluminium and other metals. Thus, if you choose to refurbish your existing alloy wheels, you will be helping to conserve these valuable resources.

3. Lowering Your Carbon Footprint

   The production of new alloy wheels is energy-intensive, a significant cause of greenhouse gas emissions. On the other hand, refurbishment commonly uses less energy, resulting in a lower carbon footprint.

4. Promoting A Circular Economy

   The refurbishment method corresponds to circular economy principles concerned with reusing and repairing products, not disposing them. Supporting a refurbishment option demonstrates your commitment to sustainability and promotes a circular economy.

5. Setting A Positive Example

   By choosing alloy wheel refurbishment instead of replacing them, you set an example for your community. Your choice can motivate many others to follow more eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

Conclusion

Alloy wheel refurbishment can be a great way to restore your wheels to their original condition and improve your car's appearance and performance. If you're considering refurbishing your alloy wheels, you must weigh the benefits and costs mentioned in this blog to determine if it's the right choice.

Ready To Give Your Alloy Wheels A Brand New Look? Choose Splash N Drip

If you are considering whether refurbishing alloy wheels is worth it and decide to try it, choose Splash N Drip for hassle-free services. We offer mobile alloy wheel refurbishment, which means our team will reach your location and get the job done quickly, eliminating the need for you to wait in a long queue.

Other than alloy wheel repair, we also offer mobile valeting, mobile car cleaning, car detailing in the UK. For a free quote or to learn more about our services, contact us today!