What to do when you’ve buckled your alloy wheel

Our car’s alloy wheels are one of its most attractive features. They help the exterior really pop, and add a strong element of design and style. There is a small non-financial price we pay for having alloy wheels, however, and that’s in strength. The fact is that alloy wheels, though infinitely more attractive, are somewhat less durable than good-old steel wheels.

We aren’t saying you should make a switch, but it can be worrying when your alloy wheels buckle. Some drivers panic, or start worrying about astronomical repair bills. We’ve asked the team at Apex Wheels about their alloy wheel refurb Cheltenham service to offer up some advice to drivers in this situation:

What causes alloy wheel buckling?

When you think of buckling, you might imagine the whole wheel bending wildly and massively out of shape. In fact, buckling is often quite subtle, and invisible from the outside. One of the main causes of buckling is impacting uneven surfaces like potholes. This can cause a small buckle that you might not see at first, leading you to think everything is okay.

How do we know when we need buckled alloy wheel repair?

When the buckles are invisible, you have to look for other signs that something is wrong. These signs include, but are not limited to:

Reduced ease in handling

Vibrations or shaking when you take corners

Visible damage to the wheel (even a scuff or visible dent on the face)

Your tyres won’t stay inflated

The question we then come to is what to do when you find yourself in this situation.

What should I do if my alloys are buckled?

The first thing is not to panic. Many buckled alloy wheel repair jobs are simpler than you know. If left unchecked, they can get worse and cause more damage, so it’s crucial that you get them seen to as fast as possible, this brings us to the next thing.

The second thing you should do is seek professional help. If you bring the car to Apex Wheels alloy wheel refurb Cheltenham garage, for example, they can put those rims onto a wheel balance and check them for signs of buckling. Minor damage can be repaired and the wheel restored. Major damage may warrant a replacement, such as a terrible crack going right across the spoke.

The important thing to do at the mechanic stage is make a decision on repair or replace. The alloy repair service will make a recommendation and you can follow that, especially if the alloy is beyond repair. You may also look at alloy buckling, even minor buckling, as a sign to replace them and get a new look for your car.

Next, you should avoid potholes and other uneven terrain whenever possible. This applies both when you suspect buckling, and after your alloys have been repaired or replaced.

Alloy Wheel Refurb

If you’ve experienced anything like we’ve described above, then go for a check-up and get some buckled alloy wheel repair expertise sent your way.