Damage, cracks and bendsOctober 16, 2026

What causes alloy wheels to crack?

Alloy wheels most often crack after a hard impact such as a pothole or kerb strike, or after repeated stress and corrosion weaken the metal. A cracked wheel is a safety matter, so if you think yours has a crack, have it checked before driving on it.

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The common causes

Low-profile tyres leave less cushion between the road and the rim, which makes impact damage more likely. Our guide on why alloy wheels corrode covers the corrosion route in more detail.

A hard impact.

A pothole, kerb or debris strike can crack the rim or spokes straight away, or leave a hairline crack that spreads later.

Repeated stress.

Alloy is lighter than steel and tends to crack where steel would bend. Repeated knocks and loading can wear the metal until a crack forms.

Corrosion.

Corrosion under damaged lacquer or paint can pit the surface, and cracks can start from pitted areas.

A previous repair.

A poorly done straightening or welding job can leave a weak spot.

Why some cracks appear later

A wheel can survive an impact and still carry damage. A hairline crack may stay hidden under paint for weeks, then grow as the wheel flexes on each journey. That is why a vibration or a slow air leak after a strike deserves attention even when the wheel looks fine.

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Warning signs

Hairline cracks are easy to miss, especially under dirt or brake dust. Clean the wheel and check it in good light.

A fine line in the metal, often at a spoke, at the hub or along the rim edge.
A tyre that keeps losing air with no puncture.
Bubbling paint or lacquer along a thin line.
Vibration, a pull or a noise after an impact.

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What to do if you suspect a crack

A crack can spread, and a wheel that fails at speed is dangerous. Do not rely on filler or paint, because they hide a crack without fixing it.

Stop driving on the wheel

Stop driving on the wheel if you can, or keep to a short, slow trip to get it checked.

Photograph the area from a

Photograph the area from a few angles, including a close-up.

Check the tyre pressure and

Check the tyre pressure and look for a bulge.

Get the wheel inspected, since

Get the wheel inspected, since not every crack can be seen.

Some cracks can be welded and the wheel refinished, depending on where the crack sits and how large it is. Others mean replacement is the safer choice. Our guide on whether a cracked alloy wheel can be repaired sets out what decides it. Welding and straightening are done in-house at our Crown Road workshop. Send a photo and we will tell you what the repair involves in a free quote, within 24 hours. See cracked alloy wheel repair. Free loan wheels are available subject to stock, so call to check for your make.

Frequently asked questions

Why do alloy wheels crack?

Mostly from hard impacts, with repeated stress, corrosion and earlier poor repairs adding to it. Low-profile tyres make impact damage more likely.

Can a pothole crack an alloy wheel?

Yes. A hard pothole strike can crack the rim or spokes, or cause a hairline crack that grows later. See how to claim for pothole damage.

Is it safe to drive on a cracked alloy wheel?

No. A crack can spread, and the wheel could fail. Get it checked before driving any distance.

Can cold weather crack alloy wheels?

Cold weather itself is not usually the cause. Winter roads have more potholes and salt, which make impact damage and corrosion more likely.

Can I prevent my wheels from cracking?

You cannot rule it out, but you can lower the risk. Avoid kerbs and potholes where you can, repair chips early and keep the wheels clean. See how to protect alloy wheels.

Get a quote

Send a photo of the wheel and we will quote within 24 hours. Call or send a photo first so we can book a time. Or call us on 0207 060 3666 Unit 1, 38 Crown Road, Enfield, EN1 1TH · Mon-Fri 8am-6pm · Sat 8am-1pm

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