More than 287 million vehicles are on the road in America right now according to the latest reports. While all of them have wheels, not all of them have the same types of wheels. Many come with standard steel wheels covered by plastic or metal hubcaps. Some are equipped with chrome wheels. On the other hand, quite a few vehicles have alloy wheels. Made of aluminum, those wheels look good on virtually any vehicle. They’re lightweight, easier to take care of than some other options, resistant to corrosion, and capable of withstanding the hazards of the road.
Although aluminum wheels are tough, they’re not completely impervious to damage. Some of the more treacherous potholes on our nation’s roadways can certainly take a toll on alloy wheels. Almost everyone accidentally drives over a curb now and then, which can bend or crack an aluminum wheel if it hits hard enough.
Sometimes, we drift out of our lanes a bit while driving and end up scraping those aluminum wheels against a curb. All those issues can bring about the need for repairs. While you can find out more from Hamm’s Tires about alloy wheel repairs, we’ll cover three key reasons to repair them rather than replacing them when they acquire damage.
1) Preventing Further Damage
Once an alloy wheel is damaged, it’ll only get worse over time. Aluminum doesn’t actually rust as many other metals do, but cracks and road rash leave the metal exposed to the elements. That can lead to corrosion and weaken the wheels.
If the damage isn’t repaired promptly, the wheels will ultimately need to be replaced. Repairing them is less expensive than replacing them. At the same time, if you have to replace your aluminum wheels, you may not be able to find new ones in the same style as the old ones.
2) Fostering Safety
Most people are aware that damaged tires are safety hazards. Worn tread and tires that are damaged are much more susceptible to blowouts. They also place drivers at risk of hydroplaning and other issues. Cracked and bent wheels can be just as dangerous.
They make vehicles more difficult to control and can increase the chances of having an accident. It’s best to have the damage repaired as quickly as possible to help prevent those problems.
3) Improving Appearance
No doubt, shiny, unmarred alloy wheels look better than scratched, bent, and cracked ones. Damaged wheels can detract from the overall appearance of your vehicle as well. Keeping your alloy wheels in top-notch condition makes them and your vehicle look better.
It’ll also increase the resell value of your vehicle. People often shy away from purchasing vehicles that have visible damage, and wheel damage are just as noticeable as dents, dings, and scratches in the body of the vehicle.
Keeping Your Alloy Wheels in Great Shape
Alloy wheels look great on all types of vehicles. They’re available in countless styles, and they can even make vehicles ride more smoothly and improve gas mileage. While aluminum wheels can withstand constant use, the elements, and all the hazards the roads throw at them, they’re not indestructible. When they acquire damage, it’s important to get them repaired as quickly as possible. Doing so will prevent the damage from spreading and make you and other drivers safer on the road. It’ll also keep your vehicle driving smoothly and looking its best.
When they acquire damage, it’s important to get them repaired as quickly as possible. Doing so will prevent the damage from spreading and make you and other drivers safer on the road. It’ll also keep your vehicle driving smoothly and looking its best.