What are alloy wheels?
Alloy wheels are car wheels made from aluminium mixed with small amounts of other metals, which makes them lighter than steel and easier to shape into attractive designs. Most modern cars wear them, either as standard or as an upgrade.
What alloy wheels are made of
An alloy is a blend of metals. In a wheel the main ingredient is aluminium, combined with other elements such as silicon or magnesium to add strength and help the metal flow into a mould. Pure aluminium would be too soft for a wheel. The mix gives a rim that is light, stiff enough for the road and good at carrying heat away from the brakes.
Cast and forged wheels
There are two main ways to make an alloy wheel, and they give different results. Both types are finished and coated before they reach the car, and both can be refurbished when the surface is damaged.
How alloy wheels get damaged
Surface marks are cosmetic. A bend, a crack or air loss is a safety matter and the wheel should be checked before you use it again.
How alloy wheels are repaired
The right repair depends on the damage. Scuffs and chips can often be filled, sanded and refinished. A bent rim can usually be straightened, and some cracks can be welded and checked, while a wheel that is too badly damaged may need replacing. At our Crown Road workshop, wheels are stripped to bare metal, repaired and refinished, with straightening, welding and CNC diamond cut done in-house. Standard refurbishment takes 36 to 48 hours, and diamond cut takes 2 working days. Free loan wheels are available subject to stock, so call to check for your make. Our mobile team can handle minor scuffs, kerb damage and paint chips on the same day, in about 2 to 4 hours. If you are outside the areas we list, send your postcode and we'll confirm. See alloy wheel refurbishment for the full service.
Frequently asked questions
What are alloy wheels made of?
Aluminium mixed with small amounts of other metals, such as silicon or magnesium. The blend is stronger than pure aluminium and still light.
What is the difference between cast and forged alloy wheels?
Cast wheels are made by pouring molten alloy into a mould. Forged wheels are pressed from a solid block under great pressure, which makes them denser and stronger.
Are alloy wheels better than steel?
Alloys are lighter and look better, so most buyers prefer them. Steel wheels are tougher on a hard knock and suit vans and winter sets.
Do alloy wheels rust?
Aluminium does not rust, but it corrodes when the paint or lacquer is damaged. White spots, bubbling or flaking are the usual signs.
Can damaged alloy wheels be repaired?
Often yes. Scuffs, kerb rash and corrosion can be refinished, and many bent wheels can be straightened. Send us a photo and we will say what the repair involves.
Get a quote
Send a photo of your wheels 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
Contact
Get a free photo quote
Phone
020 7060 3666
WhatsApp
+447512308716
Address
Unit 1, 38 Crown Road
Enfield
EN1 1TH
Enfield
EN1 1TH