Alloy wheel refurbishment - a job well done?

[Paulsas]

Hi folks,

I recently had my alloys wheels refurbished by a local company. Long story short, I noticed some imperfections after the work was done and was told, “that happens”. Don’t get me wrong, the alloys were in pretty bad shape beforehand (sadly I lacked the foresight to take a pre-pic)but the little pits and bubbles look like it’s only a matter of time before the flake off.

This is the first time I’ve got my alloys done and I don’t know anyone else that has so I have no idea whether the guy is being genuine or not and if I should get the other two done there.

There was some kerb scrapes which have all been “removed” perfectly which is ironically the main reason why these little pits and bubbles confuse me.

Would appreciate other’s thoughts and experiences.

Cheers
Paul

[PompeyReece]

Depends what you paid for. When I've enquired on wheel refub, I've been given three options.

The top end on costing £120ish per wheel is what I've had done and everything is perfect. If you paid that per wheel, this is atrocious and you should expect more - take them back.

With the cheaper options (£40-£60 a wheel) I was told the finish is not permanent and might fade after 1-2 years. Even so, this looks worse than that but others with more experience would be better placed to comment.

[aka_kerrly]

I refurb wheels as a hobby/side income and have done a few sets for friends. I would be embarrassed if I did that job for free let alone try charging someone good money for it. if you got all 4 wheels done plus tyres swapped on/off for under £100 that seems to be what's considered "cheap" these days which could explain the lack of attention the wheels got.

You're right that those surface bubbles will burst, water will get under the paint and it will only get worse.

[Evoluzione]

As per above it depends who you took it to and how much you paid, but i'd say generally that it's unacceptable.
I get wheels baked, blasted and powdercoated solid colours for £1 per inch and the quality is better than that.

[Chris32345]

I had wheels refurbed and powder coated in featherstone for £40 each near perfect finish in and still looked good 2 year's after

Edited by Chris32345 on Friday 10th July 14:59

[steveo3002]

not really acceptable at any price

[Summit_Detailing]

steveo3002 said:

not really acceptable at any price

This ^^^

"pay cheap, pay twice" and all that.

Cheers.

[Paulsas]

Thanks for the replies folks, much appreciated.

The place seems a big enough outfit - all US styling - was busy as all hell and although not the most expensive, definitely not the cheapest. Had a damn good set of reviews too.

Will take them back (luckily only two done) and see what they have to say about it. Might just have been a one off from one technician. Will hopefully get an update over the weekend.

Thanks again.