Alloy Wheel Care and Maintenance

Alloy wheels are a great choice for any car owner looking for increased strength, decreased overall weight and endless modification options. Higher standard alloy wheels come with a greater responsibility of care and maintenance of their desirable qualities. Here we discuss what you need to know about your alloy wheels in order to keep them looking great, and answer some of the most common questions we get in relation to caring for your alloy wheels.

Caring for your alloy wheels

Here we answer some of the most common questions asked when dealing with alloy wheel care. Understanding these issues and how to either treat or prevent them will ensure that your alloy wheels are kept in top condition.

Can alloy wheels rust?

Technically, alloy wheels don’t rust. Due to the main component in the alloy mix that makes up alloy wheels, aluminium, having an oxide layer that protects it from rusting, you won’t experience rusting like you may on a steel wheel.  You may, however, experience corrosion if your alloy wheels are scratched. A scratch on the alloy can expose the layers under the protective finish and white-coloured patches of corrosion can then develop. Using alloy safe rust remover, the appropriate scrubbing brushes (usually nylon then steel wool) and a water rinse can effectively remove corrosion from your alloy wheels.

Can a crack in an alloy wheel be welded?

A crack in an alloy wheel can be welded as a method of repair however, this process should only be done by a professional. There are many factors that need to be considered when an alloy wheel is cracked and needs repairing, such as:

Where the crack is located
The size of the crack
The direction that the crack is going in
The overall condition of the alloy wheel

• • These factors can decide whether a crack in an alloy wheel can be welded, repaired through a different method or is beyond repair and needs a replacement. You can learn more about what to do when your alloy wheels are damaged in our guide, or get in touch with us to find out how we can effectively and quickly repair your alloy wheels.

Can an alloy wheel be straightened?

Alloy wheels can be straightened by a professional. If you are experiencing:

Shaking when driving
Poor steering and handling
tyres that consistently lose pressure

…your alloy wheels may be buckled and out of shape. This could be due to poor road conditions or an accident whereby a large hole is hit.

Straightening your alloy wheels is a great method that removes the unnecessary need for replacement, and it is usually a successful process. This process does however, require an expert technician and specialist equipment to ensure that it is done correctly.

Follow our easy step by step guide on how to clean alloy wheels, to make your alloys shine like new again!

CLEANING YOUR ALLOY WHEELS

What’s the best way to clean my alloy wheels

It is recommended that you use an alloy wheel cleaner for the best results.

You can use a regular car shampoo however; this will only remove the surface dirt. To remove the ingrained dirt, is it recommended you use a wheel cleaner as it will give you the best clean. Using a pressure washer or hose will help to wash away all the surface dirt and brake dust from the alloy.

Apply a generous amount of Alloy cleaner. Once the surface dirt has been removed from the alloy with water, apply a generous amount of wheel cleaner to the alloys. Leave for the designated time. The magic often happens after around 5 minutes, but always check the alloy wheel cleaning product you are using,

Rinse the alloy cleaner off with clean water.  Always dry alloy wheels to avoid annoying water marks on your clean and shiny alloys.

Apply a wheel wax. An alloy wheel wax works in the same way as a car wax, working to protect your alloys. Apply the wax of choice with an applicator pad and then buff the wheel. The wax will keep your wheels looking shiny and prevent brake dust adhesion. It is recommended that you wax alloy wheels every couple of weeks, this may seem excessive, but it is a much easier job that scrubbing your wheels every week.

If you’re looking for a good reliable Alloy Wheel Repair and Refurbishment service in Shropshire, come to Castle Alloys Telford.
We are an experienced dedicated Wheel Repair Centre. Here at Castle Alloys, we have years of knowledge in making your wheels look as good as new. Call Steve or visit our unit. Find us right behind Priorslee Motors, on Holyhead Road, Telford.
https://castlealloys.co.uk/