Alloy Wheel Question

[Blib]

During a recent spot check of my car at the local dealership, it was noticed that one of the alloys had been bent on the inside of the rim. It was only noticeable when the car was up on the ramp and the wheel spun. I'd not previously noticed anything untoward in daily use.

The dealer, as is their job, offered to sell me a new wheel. But, I was wondering whether it is possible for the wheel to be straightened? And if so, would any tyre place do the work? Or, are there specialist companies who offer the service.

The damage is not too bad. However, I'm aware that for safety's sake, it's not good to drive around with a misshaped wheel.

What does the Massive suggest?

[marshalla]

It depends how badly damaged it is, but there are a few specialists who can fix buckled and cracked wheels. It's not something that a "run of the mill" wheel refurbisher would take on.

Opinion is divided about the safety of the results but I haven't heard any reports of accidents caused by properly repaired wheels. Wait for the flood of posts telling you not to do it now.

[anonymous-user]

I had a bent inner rim on a front alloy, my tyre fitter "balanced it out" to temporarily remove any judder/imbalance however when I got my wheels refurbed the refurb guy sorted it by heating it up and beating back into shape before shot-blasting and powder coating the wheel, all for £50 including removal and refit of tyre and rebalance which I thought was pretty good for a big 18" wheel.

So..ask a friendly local wheel refurb place.

[Blib]

Thanks for the replies. The wheel is not too badly damaged at all. It looks to me like it's hit a curb at too high a speed and been 'flattened' a little.

[Ozzie Osmond]

If it's out of sight, not leaking air and the wheel isn't out of balance what's the problem? The flexibility of the tyre will compensate for any small run-out.

Alternatively get a large block of wood to hold against the wheel and hit it with a big hammer until it's straight. This works. I've done it.

[Blib]

I know what you mean Ozzy. Why bother if it's a minor thing?

It's just that with the wheels and in particular the tyres being the things that contact the road, I've always thought that they should be "right".