Alloy Wheel Repair: Everything You Need to Know

We get asked all sorts of questions about alloy wheels, and we thought it would be helpful to put together a proper guide for you. After all, those shiny wheels do make a difference to how your car looks. 

Understanding Alloy Wheel Damage

Kerb damage is a classic, isn’t it? We’ve all done it, a little scrape against the curb while parking. Then there’s corrosion, especially if you live near the coast or drive on salty winter roads. Small chips and scratches from stones and debris are common, too. And let’s not forget general wear and tear, which happens over time.

You might be thinking, “It’s just a scratch; it’s not a big deal.” But those little blemishes can lead to bigger problems. Corrosion can spread, and damaged wheels can affect your car’s handling and safety. Let’s be honest, they just don’t look as good as well!

Spotting the Signs

How do you know if your wheels need attention? Obvious damage like deep scratches or dents is easy to spot. But keep an eye out for less obvious signs, too. 

Look for white powdery patches, which could indicate corrosion. Check for small cracks or bends, especially if you’ve had a bump. And if your car feels a bit wobbly or you notice unusual vibrations, your wheels might be out of balance or damaged.

Regular checks are a good idea. Give your wheels a quick once-over when you’re washing your car. It only takes a minute, and it could save you a lot of trouble down the line. We see loads of people who have caught small issues early and saved themselves money.

DIY Repairs vs. Professional Refurbishment

Now, you might be wondering if you can fix those wheels yourself. There are plenty of DIY kits available, and for very minor scratches, they can do a decent job. But for anything more serious, professional wheel refurbishment is the way to go.

DIY repairs can be tricky. Getting a smooth, even finish is difficult, and colour matching can be a real challenge. You also need the right tools and a suitable space to work in. Plus, if you don’t prepare the wheel properly, the repair might not last.

Professional refurbishment, on the other hand, gives you a factory-standard finish. We use specialist equipment and techniques to remove damage, repair dents and cracks, and apply a durable, high-quality finish. We can also colour-match your wheels perfectly, so they look as good as new.

The Pro Vinyl Manchester Process

At Pro Vinyl Manchester, our wheel refurbishment process is thorough and precise. We start by inspecting the wheels to assess the damage. Then, we remove the tyres and clean the wheels thoroughly. Next, we repair any damage, such as dents or cracks, using specialist techniques. After that, we apply a primer, followed by a colour coat and a protective lacquer. Finally, we refit the tyres and balance the wheels.

We take great care at each stage of the process to ensure a flawless finish. We understand that your wheels are a big investment, and we want them to look their best. That’s why we only use high-quality materials and employ skilled technicians.

Maintaining Your Refurbished Wheels

Once your wheels are looking their best, you’ll want to keep them that way. Regular cleaning is essential. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.

Protecting your wheels from further damage is also important. Try to avoid kerbs when parking, and be careful when driving on rough roads or gravel. You can also apply a wheel sealant or wax to provide an extra layer of protection against dirt and grime.

Winter Care

Winter can be particularly tough on alloy wheels. Salt and grit on the roads can cause corrosion, so it’s important to clean your wheels regularly during the winter months. Consider applying a winter sealant to provide extra protection.

If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider using winter tyres with steel wheels. This can help to protect your alloy wheels from damage.

Choosing the Right Refurbishment Service

With so many wheel refurbishment services available, how do you choose the right one? Look for a company with a good reputation and plenty of experience. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations.

Check that the company uses high-quality materials and equipment. Ask about their process and how long it will take. And make sure they offer a warranty on their work.

Why Choose Pro Vinyl Manchester?

At Pro Vinyl Manchester, we pride ourselves on our quality workmanship and excellent customer service. We have years of experience in wheel refurbishment, and we use only the best materials and techniques.

We offer a range of refurbishment services to suit your needs, from minor repairs to full refurbishments. We can also colour-match your wheels to any colour you like.

We understand that your car is important to you, and we treat it with the same care and attention that we would our own. We’re passionate about what we do, and we’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible service.

We also do a lot of vinyl wrapping, so if you want to pair your new wheels with a new look, we can help. Feel free to have a look at our website.

Common Questions About Alloy Wheel Repair

We get asked a lot of questions about alloy wheel repair, so we thought we’d answer a few of the most common ones here.

How much does it cost?

The cost of alloy wheel repair depends on the extent of the damage and the type of finish you want. Minor repairs are usually less expensive than full refurbishments. Get in touch with us at Pro Vinyl Manchester for a free quote.

How long does it take?

The time it takes to refurbish your wheels depends on the extent of the damage and the type of finish you want. Minor repairs can usually be completed in a few hours, while full refurbishments may take a day or two.

Can you repair bent wheels?

Yes, we can repair bent wheels. We use specialist techniques to straighten the wheels and restore them to their original shape.

Can you colour-match my wheels?

Yes, we can colour match your wheels to any colour you like. We use specialist colour-matching equipment to ensure a perfect match.

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes, we offer a warranty on all our work. We stand behind the quality of our workmanship and are committed to your satisfaction.

We hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any further questions about alloy wheel repair, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.