Most car owners are at sea when it comes to replacing or repairing a damaged tire rim. However, choosing between the two is not as daunting as many may want to portray. With proper examination and professional services, you’ll easily tell whether to replace or repair the rim.
In this article, we highlight instances that call for replacing and repairing. More to that, we’ll look at the best rim for your car. For these and more, let’s dive in!
Why should you keep a close eye on your car rim tires?
Rim tires are crucial when it comes to the functioning of the car. They hold the tire in place so reducing friction and providing leverage. It increases the force applied on the wheel increasing friction between the tire and the road. This helps improve the car’s traction allowing for stellar performance. The bigger the rim, the more the leverage.
Besides, premium rims affect braking, acceleration, handling, and alignment of your car. So, should they get damaged, your car’s performance will reduce drastically. You’ll also be susceptible to sudden blowouts when at high speed. Other consequences include reduced braking and steering.
Can a damaged rim be repaired?
If the damage is not extensive, you can have the rim repaired by your mechanic.
When should you replace damaged rims?
Here are a few signs that your bent rim needs replacement.
1. Vibration when steering
Bent rims will cause the steering wheel to shake since the tire makes contact with the ground unevenly. If the vibration is persistent in the front of your car, it is a sign that either of the front rims is damaged. Vibration towards the rear of the car indicates that either of the rear rims is broken. You should therefore visit your mechanic immediately.
2. Lose of car handling
As mentioned above, a damaged rim will cause the tire to make uneven contact with the pavement. This causes the car to lose traction which in turn affects the handling. You’ll have a hard time steering the car, especially on wet grounds.
Also, if unattended, it will cause the treads of the affected tire to wear rapidly compared to other wheels. As such, the car is poised to pull towards the tire’s impacting handling.
3. Feels like you are driving on a flat tire
When the damaged rim snaps out of its place, it can press against the rubber leading to a slow air leak. How can you tell that your car has a leaking tire? It will reduce fuel efficiency, pull to one side, vibrate, and produce “thumping” sounds when in motion. You are also at a higher risk of sudden blowouts so you should replace it as soon as you experience the above.
4. Visible damage to the wheel
It is easy to spot tire and wheel damage but hubcaps can get in your way. If you experience any of the above signs and can’t spot the damaged area, consider removing the hubcaps. Examine your tire and wheel for potential damage. If any, replace or have the wheel repaired.
How do you replace your car rims?
The best approach is to consult with your mechanic. Have him/her assess the extent of the damage. If it needs replacement, visit different auto shops and ask for quotes. Once you are satisfied with your choice have the mechanic replace the old one.
Should you use alloy or steel rims?
To buy a steel or alloy rim? Well, that depends on your preference. But, let’s look at the advantages of each.
Advantages of alloy rims
Trendy look: if you want your car to rock the urban look, then alloy rims are what you need. They are flashy and look good on most family cars, no wonder even sports car enthusiasts love them.
Improved heat dissipation: alloy as a material dissipates heat exceptionally compared to steel. This means that the braking system will be more effective in mitigating the chances of brake failure.
Stellar performance: alloy rims also reduce unsprung weight transmitted to the springs. This enables the suspension to move per the terrain. You’ll experience better cornering, especially in sports cars.
Improved fuel efficiency: thanks to their lightweight design, they increase fuel efficiency compared to steel rims.
Resistant to rusting: they are made of aluminum alloy that is resistant to rusting and corrosion. So if you live in wet regions, consider purchasing alloy rims.
Improve the lifespan of the tire: alloy dissipates heat better compared to steel. As such, your tires will remain cooler hence reducing instances of rapid tear and wear.
Advantages of steel rims
Cheaper alternative: steel rims are cheaper compared to alloy rims making them an economical alternative to most car owners.
Stronger: they are stronger making them ideal for powerful cars such as pickups.
Durable: unlike alloy rims that can crack easily, steel rims are sturdier withstanding impacts such as potholes. Also, they are not susceptible to rusting as long as they keep the initial paint
Easy to repair: unlike alloy rims that appear fragile, steel rims are tough, hence repairing them is easier since you don’t have to worry about their appearance.
Now, should you buy the steel or alloy rim? If you are after the aesthetic aspect of your car, alloy rims are the best option. On the other hand, you should settle for steel rims if you drive more on rough roads.
Why should you fit hubcaps on your rims?
Most car owners are for or against the fitting of hubcaps. Some don’t see their use, while others argue that they help improve the lifespan of the wheels. So what is a hubcap? It is a plastic covering that is fitted on the hub area of the wheel. They prevent rocks, dust, and other elements from causing harm to the wheel and rim.
Wrap up!
No longer do have to worry about replacing or repairing your bent tire rim. All you have to do is keep in mind the signs discussed in this article. Again, to avoid unnecessary rim damage, choose one that resonates with your driving needs.
Sam is Automole’s editor-in-chief and classic car enthusiast. Sam is studying mechanical engineering at Cockrell School of Engineering, Austin. He also writes for many top automotive publications and appears on the Collecting Cars Podcast.
