Keeping your wheels and rims in good condition is not only a matter of great appearance but also safety. Because when your wheels malfunction, you’re in for quite a bumpy ride. Vibrations, strange noises, inability to drive straight are only some of the potential consequences and safety risks of damaged wheels. 

Alloy wheels, for example, are among the most durable wheels, but even they can experience some damage with time and for a number of reasons and unforeseen circumstances. 

But how do you know when your alloy wheels need to be repaired? We’ll tell you everything! 

Read on to discover seven of the most common signs that indicate your wheels are up for repair. 

Seven Most Common Signs of Damaged Alloy Wheels

Listed below, you’ll find some of the top signs of damage you’ll need to pay special attention to. Ignoring these signs and delaying repair may result in the need to purchase brand-new alloy wheels, which will be more costly, so make sure to catch and repair these issues on time.

1. Vibrations of the Car Body

   Vibration is a strong signal that the wheel rims need a repair. It doesn’t matter what style your alloy wheels are made in – three-spoke wheels, turbine wheels, concave wheels, or teledial wheels – vibrations significantly intrude on your driving comfort. But what’s even more important, they can become a hazard and cause dangerous situations on the road.

2. Vibrations of the Steering System

   If you happen to feel your steering system vibrating, it’s also a cause for alarm and may point to wheel damage. Leaving the issue unresolved may lead to faster wear and tear, as well as mess with some of the car’s driving characteristics, such as expected speed, acceleration frequency, and braking force.

3. Wheel Tire of Rim Runout

   Wheel runout refers to tires or rims that are no longer completely round. The runout can be horizontal or vertical and may be caused by different factors: if you hit a curb, if the tires are aged out, improperly installed, etc. Runout wheels will eventually lead to a deterioration in driving comfort and the car’s performance, so they should be repaired as soon as possible.

4. Tire Doesn’t Hold Air for Too Long

   If your tire is not holding air for too long and it is clear after checking that it has not been punctured and that the valve stem is not leaking, your rims may be damaged or contorted. In order to prevent any further issues or risks while driving, it’s best to have your wheels checked out as soon as possible.

5. Uneven Tire Wear

   When your tires are worn out but not evenly all throughout them, it can mean that the rims aren’t in proper working order and may need a repair. Of course, uneven wear can be caused by bad wheel alignment or unbalanced tires, but once those possible reasons are eliminated, checking your alloy rims should be next in line.

6. Specific or Strange Noise

   Another signal that your alloy wheels may need repair is grinding noise. Whenever you hear an unfamiliar noise, it is usually a sign of trouble, and grinding is no exception. It usually appears as you pick up the speed, turn, or brake. Repair is, of course, highly recommended in this case.

7. Pulling to One Side

   Problems with the rims can sometimes cause the car to pull to one side due to the created vibrations. The vehicle can also be dragged to one side when braking due to the excessive runout caused by damaged alloy wheels. Make sure to repair your wheels as soon as possible in this case to prevent any accidents.

What Can You Do?

If you notice any of the damage signs mentioned above, the best idea is to get in touch with a professional as soon as possible.

And with top-notch alloy wheel repair experts at Coastal Alloy, your damaged wheels will return to their former form and your fully functional car to the road in no time!