Is It Worth Repairing a Cracked Rim or Buying New?
When you discover a cracked rim on your car, you face a tough choice: repair it or replace it with a new one? At Alloy Fix, we believe that professional alloy repair is often the smarter choice for both your car and your wallet. Let’s explore why repairing your damaged alloy wheels might be better than buying new ones.
Understanding Rim Damage and Its Causes
Alloy wheels can suffer various types of damage. While scratches mainly affect appearance, cracks compromise the wheel’s structural integrity and safety. Several factors can cause rim damage:
Hitting a pothole can create sudden impact forces that lead to cracks
Temperature changes cause metal to expand and contract, eventually causing fatigue
Road salts and chemicals can cause corrosion that weakens alloys
Poor wheel alignment creates uneven pressure that damages the wheel rim
The extent of the damage determines whether repair is possible. Minor cracks and kerbed alloy issues can usually be fixed, while severe structural damage might require replacement.
Why Cracked Rims Need Immediate Attention
Driving with a cracked alloy wheel is genuinely dangerous. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, safety regulations clearly state that “wheels and rims must not be cracked or broken.” This highlights how important wheel integrity is for road safety.
Warning signs of wheel damage include:
Gradually losing tyre pressure
Unusual vibrations while driving
Visible cracks or deformations
Ignoring damage to alloy wheels can lead to MOT failure or dangerous situations on the road. Damaged alloys not only look bad but can also affect your vehicle’s handling and safety.
The Professional Alloy Repair Process
At Alloy Fix, our expert repair process follows strict procedures to ensure your wheels are restored safely:
We thoroughly assess the damaged area
For a cracked rim, we use professional welding techniques for complete repair
We carefully finish the damaged alloys by hand
We complete the work with premium finishing options like diamond cut alloys or powder coating
As an alloy repair specialist, we can confidently repair a cracked alloy wheel to be both safe and attractive. Our experienced repair specialists make sure every wheel meets the highest standards.
Repair vs Replacement: The Cost Benefit
One of the biggest reasons to choose alloy wheel repairs is cost. Professional wheel refurbishing typically costs significantly less than buying new wheels.
When deciding, consider:
The overall condition of your wheels
The cost of comparable new ones
Whether other wheels might need similar repairs
With Alloy Fix’s alloy wheel repair service, customers often save 60-80% compared to buying new wheels. Plus, with our industry-leading 3-year warranty, you get peace of mind with your repair.
When Wheel Repair Is The Right Choice
Repairing your damaged alloy wheels is usually right when:
The crack is caught early
The damage isn’t in a critical area
You want to save money
The wheel is expensive or hard to replace
You care about reducing waste
At Alloy Fix, we specialise in alloy repairs that restore wheels to factory condition. Our team has successfully repaired thousands of damaged alloys, saving our customers both money and hassle.
Environmental Benefits of Repairing Cracked Rims
Choosing repair rather than replacement has real environmental benefits. Manufacturing new wheels requires significant resources and energy. By repairing existing wheels, you’re:
Reducing waste
Lowering your carbon footprint
Extending the life of existing materials
This “repair and reuse” approach is better for the planet and your budget.
When Replacement Becomes Necessary
While we excel at repairs, sometimes replacement is necessary. Signs that wheels can lead to needing replacement include:
Multiple extensive cracks
Severe bending or deformation
Previous unsuccessful repair attempts
Critical structural damage
If you’re unsure, our technicians can assess your alloy wheel damage and give expert advice on whether repair is possible.
Why Choose Alloy Fix For Your Wheel Repairs?
What sets our alloy wheel refurbishments apart:
Expert Technicians: Our skilled team understands both the science and craft of wheel repair
3-Year Warranty: Unmatched in the industry
Comprehensive Services: From diamond cut alloys to buckle repairs
Loan Wheels Available: Drive away the same day
Affordable Solutions: Quality repairs at cost-effective prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive with cracked alloy wheels?
No, it’s not safe. Cracked wheels can fail catastrophically, increasing risk of accidents. If you spot damage, have it checked immediately by an alloy repair specialist.
Will a repaired wheel pass an MOT?
Yes, when properly repaired by qualified technicians like our team at Alloy Fix, a welded wheel will pass an MOT test. Our repairs restore both appearance and structural integrity.
How can I tell if my alloy wheels crack or have damage?
Look for visible cracks especially after hitting a pothole. Other signs include air leaking from tyres, unusual vibrations, or the wheel looking bent.
Don’t wait until rim damage becomes a serious problem. Contact Alloy Fix today for expert wheel refurbishing and professional alloy wheel repairs. With our industry-leading warranty and expert techniques, choosing Alloy Fix gives you peace of mind and wheels that look and perform like new—all at a fraction of replacement cost.