Alloy wheels are a great choice for any car owner looking for increased strength, decreased overall weight and endless modification options. Higher standard alloy wheels come with a greater responsibility of care and maintenance of their desirable qualities. Here we discuss what you need to know about your alloy wheels in order to keep them looking great, and answer some of the most common questions in relation to caring for your alloy wheels.
Knowing your alloy wheel specifications
The first step to maintaining great alloy wheels is to know their specifications. This means that, should an issue present itself, you can easily find the correct replacements, repair tools or wheel repair machine needed for that specific alloy wheel.
Wheel diameter
Wheel diameter, or pitch circle diameter (PCD), is the diameter of the circle in which your alloy wheel bolts are placed on. You can calculate the PCD of your alloy wheels by using the number of bolts and the size of the circle in which the bolts sit - this is usually measured in millimeters.
Wheel rim width
The rim width is the distance between the outside and the inside lips of your alloy wheel - this is typically measured in inches. You need to know this number as each car requires a different wheel rim width in order to fit properly.
Caring for your alloy wheels
Here some of the most common questions asked when dealing with alloy wheel care. Understanding these issues and how to either treat or prevent them will ensure that your alloy wheels are kept in top condition.
Can alloy wheels rust?
Technically, alloy wheels don’t rust. Due to the main component in the alloy mix that makes up alloy wheels, aluminium, having an oxide layer that protects it from rusting, you won’t experience rusting like you may on a steel wheel. You may, however, experience corrosion if your alloy wheels are scratched. A scratch on the alloy can expose the layers under the protective finish and white-coloured patches of corrosion can then develop. If your wheels suffer the scratches, you can use the professional alloy wheel repair latheto do that.
Can an alloy wheel be straightened?
Your alloy wheels may be buckled and out of shape. This could be due to poor road conditions or an accident whereby a large hole is hit.
Straightening your alloy wheels is a great method that removes the unnecessary need for replacement, and it is usually a successful process. This process does however, require an expert technician and specialist rim straightening machine to ensure that it is done correctly.
