Driving on Manchester roads is a sport, especially when you are continuously saving your automobile’s wheels from hitting potholes. But once that happens, you are in for an investment. But how or when do you know that your alloy wheels are in need of refurbishment? As soon as you notice scuffing? Or when you almost crash into a corner while turning?
Don’t worry! This blog will help you spot potential dangers and risks much earlier, so that you know when to get an alloy wheel refurbishment.
What Damages Alloy Wheels in Manchester?
We already know that Manchester’s roads can be tough on your alloy wheels. If you drive between tight parking spaces, pothole-ridden streets, and the relentless Northern weather, you can understand why so many local drivers end up with damaged rims. The roads can quietly chip away your wheels.
Let’s dig deeper into the scenarios or conditions that pose a serious threat to your alloy wheels, and where an alloy wheel refurbishment becomes necessary.
Scuffs and Scratches
Scuffs and scratches are a common wheel damage in Manchester. They are likely to occur due to kerbs, road debris, or driving through tight spots. These are minor damages but can chip away at the wheel’s protective layer. If that happens, it can result in long-term corrosion.
Kerb Rash
It is common to miscalculate turns during high-traffic driving or while parking in close spots. Such turns may lead to unwanted contact between the wheel and kerbs. This scenario leaves deep grazes or rough scrapes along the edge of your wheel, which is also known as kerb rash.
Kerb rash not only looks bad but also weakens the rims.
Buckled Rims
Rims are circular. A buckled rim is not. It basically refers to a dented rim that results from a hard hit from a pothole or uneven surface. Buckled rims are quite dangerous as they can disturb your car’s balance. They can also cause steering vibrations, wear down your tires faster, and affect handling.
Peeling Paint/Lacquer
Car wheel restoration becomes necessary when the paint or lacquer on your alloys starts to peel. The peeling allows moisture to sneak in through these gaps, which triggers oxidation underneath. If you leave the peeling paint/lacquer untreated, the entire alloy wheel surface can start corroding.
Corrosion from Road Salt
It is common in Manchester to use salt on the roads during winter. The salt helps prevent ice from collecting over the surface. But when that salt combines with moisture, it is not good for an automobile’s wheels. It damages the wheel’s metal and eats away the finish. Once the finish is damaged, it leads to pitting, surface damage, and structural weakening over time.
The above damages are the most common types that Manchester drivers experience. They call for an alloy wheel refurbishment. If you keep ignoring the signs for extended periods, you are inviting greater risks and damage to the vehicle.
Why Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Makes Sense to Drivers?
As discussed, alloy wheel refurbishment is needed to fix the damage. But there is more to it. Here is what an alloy wheel repair does besides fixing the issues:
Improves Safety and Handling
We know how damaged alloys can affect a tyre’s seal and can cause slow air leaks or uneven wear. All that can impact steering response and ride comfort. But with alloy wheel repair, your wheels stay strong, balanced, and road-safe.
Restores Resale Value
Most people don’t know that scuffed or corroded wheels reduce a car’s resale value. So, when you have refurbished alloy wheels, it makes the car look well-maintained and cared for. That attracts buyers. They are more likely to pay a premium price for a vehicle that looks spotless.
Saves You Money
If you choose to get brand new alloys, you will have to pay hundreds, sometimes even thousands, per set. Alloy wheel refurbishment is a far more affordable solution for restoring the wheels. It gives you the same visual impact at a fraction of the price.
Enhances the Car’s Overall Appeal
Refurbished alloy wheels instantly uplift a vehicle’s exterior. The refurbishment can include a subtle colour change or a complete restoration. Either way, the car will attract attention.
Good for Leasing Return or MOT Pass
Leasing companies often charge for cosmetic damage upon return. Refurbishing your alloys avoids hefty penalties and helps meet return standards. It can also prevent minor issues from causing an MOT failure.
Alloy Wheel Refurbishment vs Replacement: Which is Better?
That is something every driver must have asked at some point in their lifetime. And that is a valid question to ask when you are investing money.
Cost Matters
Alloy wheel replacement can be costly compared to refurbishment. And if you own a luxurious car, such as a BMW or Porsche, then replacing alloy wheels can make you go bankrupt.
Alloy wheel refurbishment is a typically cheaper solution. It offers significant savings without compromising on quality. So it is a total win.
Local Savings and Speed
Many service providers in Manchester offer same-day or next-day alloy wheel refurbishment. That means you don’t have to stay without your car for long. Plus, local services are more competitive in pricing. So, you get fast, affordable results without sacrificing quality.
Custom Finishes to Suit Your Style
The best part about alloy wheel refurbishment is that it gives you the opportunity to upgrade your automobile’s look however you want. There are multiple options available for car wheel restoration. They are:
- Powder Coated alloy wheels: Wheels that are sprayed with a fine powder (instead of normal paint) and then baked in an oven. The baking ensures the powder firmly adheres to the rims. Powder coated alloy wheels are great if you want a clean, even look that resists chips and scratches.
- Diamond Cut alloy wheels: Wheels are lightly shaved or polished with a special machine. The process involves painting and cutting the wheel (with a machine). The cutting is done in specific areas to create a bright, metallic finish with fine lines. Diamond cut alloy wheels look very sleek and modern, but need extra care to avoid corrosion.
All these benefits clearly make alloy wheel refurbishment a more practical and economical solution as compared to alloy wheel replacement.
When to Book an Alloy Wheel Refurbishment in Manchester?
Every driver in Manchester should book an alloy wheel repair Manchester service to keep their car in top condition. It becomes a necessity when the signs, such as shaking, steering, corrosion, scuffs, become visible.
Winter is the best time to get refurbished alloy wheels because the season is tough on wheels. So, to avoid potential accidents and further, more serious damages, you should consider the service.
Locos Customs in Manchester professionally handles branded vehicles, treating their alloy wheels with utmost care and precision repair.
Contact Us to Get a Free Quotation for Alloy Wheel Refurbishment in Manchester.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to refurbish alloy wheels?
Alloy wheel refurbishment in Manchester costs between £45 and £60 per wheel.
How much does it cost to powder coat 4 alloys?
The cost of powder coated alloy wheels depends on the vehicle’s brand, model, and wheel size. You can request a quotation from us by filling out our online form.
Can corroded alloy wheels be refurbished?
Yes. Corroded alloy wheels can be and must be refurbished as soon as possible.
Can I refurbish my alloys myself?
Yes. If the damage is minor, then you can refurbish the alloy wheels yourself. Otherwise, it is always advised to get it professionally refurbished.
