Damage, cracks and bendsOctober 16, 2026

Types of alloy wheel damage and what they mean

The main types of alloy wheel damage are kerb rash, scratches and scuffs, paint chips, lacquer peeling, corrosion, bends and cracks. Cosmetic marks mostly affect looks, while bends and cracks can affect safety and need checking before you drive far.

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Cosmetic damage

Scuffs, light kerb rash and chips are mostly about appearance. They are still worth fixing early, because bare metal exposed to water and road salt can corrode, and corrosion spreads under the finish. Our guide to why alloy wheels corrode explains how that happens.

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Damage that affects safety

If you notice any of these, have the wheel and tyre checked before driving far.

Vibration that appears or worsens at speed.
The car pulling to one side after hitting a pothole or kerb.
A tyre that keeps losing air with no puncture.
A visible bend, flat spot or split in the rim.
A bulge in the tyre sidewall after an impact.

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How to check your wheels

Clean the wheel so marks

Clean the wheel so marks are not hidden by brake dust.

Look at it in good

Look at it in good daylight, front and back, and photograph anything unusual.

Run a gloved finger carefully

Run a gloved finger carefully around the rim edge to find gouges and rough patches.

Check each spoke and the

Check each spoke and the area around the valve for splits, bubbling or white spots.

Cosmetic damage is stripped, repaired and refinished. Bends are straightened, and cracks are assessed and, where suitable, welded, all in-house at our Crown Road workshop. Diamond cut faces are re-cut on our CNC lathe. Standard refurbishment takes 36 to 48 hours, and diamond cut takes 2 working days. Some cracks are beyond repair, and we will tell you if so. See alloy wheel refurbishment and can a cracked alloy wheel be repaired.

Frequently asked questions

Is kerb rash serious?

Usually it is cosmetic, but a hard kerb strike can also bend the wheel. If you notice vibration afterwards, get the wheel checked.

Can corrosion on an alloy wheel spread?

Yes. Once the protective finish is broken, moisture and salt can work along the metal under the lacquer. Treating it early is easier than waiting.

Can I drive with a bent alloy wheel?

Have it checked before driving far. A bent rim can cause vibration, uneven tyre wear and air loss, and the car should not be driven at speed with a visible bend.

What is the difference between a scratch and a crack?

A scratch marks the surface finish, whereas a crack is a split through the metal. Cracks are a safety issue, so send a photo if you are unsure which you have.

Can every type of damage be repaired?

Most cosmetic damage, bends and many cracks can be repaired. Severe cracking or distortion may mean replacement, and a photo is enough for us to say.

Not sure which type you have?

Send a photo of the wheel and we will tell you what the damage is and what the repair involves, with a free quote within 24 hours. Call or send a photo first to 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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