Is Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Worth It? Benefits and Costs

Is restoring your car’s alloy wheels a worthwhile investment? It’s a question many motorists ponder, especially when faced with kerb damage, corrosion, or the general dulling of their once-pristine rims. The answer in most cases is yes. But it may not be the case for everyone depending on circumstances.

Aesthetics and practicality 

Let’s start with the benefits first. Alloy wheel refurbishment can breathe new life into tired-looking wheels, significantly improving the overall appearance of your vehicle. This is particularly relevant if you’re considering selling your car, as well-maintained wheels can boost its kerb appeal and potentially its resale value. 

Furthermore, professional refurbishment addresses more than just cosmetic issues. Technicians can often repair minor structural damage, such as small cracks or dents, which can improve wheel balance and contribute to a smoother, safer ride. This can also have a knock-on effect on tyre wear, potentially prolonging the life of your tyres.

Costs

Now, let’s explore the costs. Refurbishment costs vary depending on things such as the severity of the damage, the type of finish required (e.g., powder coating, diamond cutting), and the size of the wheel. 

It’s good practice to obtain quotes from more than one reputable refurbishment provider to compare prices and services. While refurbishment is typically cheaper than buying brand new alloys, it’s not a trivial expense. You also need to factor in the inconvenience of having your car off the road while the work is carried out.

An important point to not overlook

One key point to consider is the long-term durability of the repair. While a good refurbishment job can last for a number of years, the wheels will still be susceptible to future damage. 

Diamond-cut finishes, in particular, can be quite delicate and may require more frequent attention. If you regularly drive on rough roads or are prone to kerbing incidents, you might find yourself needing to refurbish your wheels more often, which can add up over time.

Conclusion

In summary, the ‘worth’ of the alloy wheel refurbishment is determined by the vehicle owner. Of course, costs may come into this equation, but significant damage creates a weakness in your wheels, which can lead to more costly repairs. This can be avoided in some cases with alloy wheel refurbishment.

The age, value, and what you intend to do with the car also come into consideration when deciding to opt for alloy wheel refurbishment. In terms of aesthetics and safety, you should definitely consider allow wheel refurbishment if you have experienced damage on the wheel. 

In any case, make sure your vehicle is assessed by, and refurbished by an expert like one of our many technicians at GotTints.

Is Alloy wheel refurbishment allowed for a leased car?

It’s a bit of a grey area, and it really boils down to the specifics of your lease agreement. So you should assess that first, here’s a general overview:

Lease Agreement Terms

Most lease agreements outline what is considered “acceptable” wear and tear. Minor scuffs and scratches on alloy wheels might fall within this category, but more significant damage like deep kerbing or dents likely won’t.   

The agreement will usually specify the condition in which the vehicle must be returned. It might state that the car must be in the same condition as it was at the start of the lease, or it might have specific requirements for the wheels.

Some lease agreements may have clauses about repairs, stating whether you’re allowed to make repairs yourself or if they must be done by an authorised repair center.

Practical Considerations

If the damage to the alloy wheels is beyond normal wear and tear, the leasing company will likely charge you for repairs when you return the car. These charges can be quite high, often exceeding the cost of getting the wheels refurbished yourself beforehand.   

If you decide to get the wheels refurbished, ensure it’s done by a reputable company that can provide a high-quality finish. A poor refurbishment job might not be accepted by the leasing company.

Keep records of any repairs or refurbishments you have done to the wheels, including invoices and before-and-after photos. This can be helpful if there are any disputes with the leasing company about the condition of the wheels.

Alloy wheel refurbishment services near you