Absolutely, alloy wheel refurbishment is well worth considering. It’s a cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally responsible alternative to replacing damaged wheels. The process not only repairs cosmetic issues like scratches and scuffs but also restores structural integrity, ensuring your vehicle’s safety and enhancing its overall performance. You’ll pay from £60 per wheel, depending on the damage, far cheaper than splashing out on brand-new ones, which can easily set you back over £250 per wheel.
Understanding Alloy Wheel Refurbishment
Refurbishing alloy wheels is more than just a cosmetic fix. It’s a process that restores the original lustre and repairs surface damage such as scratches, dents, and curb rash. Often, this involves sanding, repainting, and even powder-coating to give your wheels a refreshed, polished look. But it’s not only about appearances. Regular refurbishment also helps maintain the structural integrity of your wheels, preventing further deterioration from corrosion or cracks.
Economic Benefits of Refurbishment
Choosing to refurbish rather than replace your alloy wheels saves a considerable amount of money. New wheels can cost upwards of £250 each, while refurbishment prices are much more manageable, typically starting from £60 per wheel. These savings don’t stop at the initial cost either. Refurbishment extends the lifespan of your wheels, meaning you won’t have to replace them as frequently.
Refurbishing your wheels can also increase your vehicle’s resale value. Well-maintained alloy wheels can make your car look newer, which in turn can boost its market appeal and command a higher selling price. If you need to hand your car back at the end of a lease period refurbishing your wheels can help you avoid steep penalties for excess wear and tear.
Aesthetic and Resale Value Impact
Alloy wheels play a big role in the overall look of a car. Refurbishment can restore their shine, making your vehicle look well-kept, this can improve the resale value. Research shows that cars with refurbished alloy wheels often sell for 10-20% more than those with worn or damaged wheels.
Not only does refurbishment give you the chance to restore the original look, but you can also explore customisation. With various finishes and colours available, you can make your vehicle stand out even more, adding a personal touch that could appeal to future buyers.
Safety and Performance Enhancement
Worn alloy wheels can be a safety concern. Damage like cracks or bends compromise the strength of the wheels, leading to possible risks on the road. Refurbishment helps restore their structural integrity, ensuring safer driving conditions.
Lighter, refurbished wheels can improve handling and traction, which makes for a smoother and more responsive driving experience. Powder coating, applied during the refurbishment process, also boosts durability against road salt and increase resistance to wear and tear, This will help your wheels last longer. So, besides making your car look better, refurbished wheels make it drive better too.
Identifying Damage for Repair
Wondering if your wheels need refurbishment? There are several telltale signs of wear and tear that shouldn’t be ignored.
– Scratches and scuffs: These are the most obvious signs, typically caused by curbing.
– Corrosion: Weather and road salt can corrode your wheels, indicating the need for immediate attention.
– Uneven driving experience: If your car no longer feels smooth on the road, wheel damage could be to blame.
Addressing these issues early through refurbishment can prevent further damage and help maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Refurbishing your alloy wheels is also an environmentally conscious decision. Rather than discarding damaged wheels, refurbishment allows them to be restored, significantly reducing waste. The production of new wheels is energy-intensive and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, whereas refurbishment uses far fewer resources and produces much less waste.
Each tonne of aluminium saved through refurbishment helps reduce CO2 emissions by nearly 10 tonnes, making a tangible contribution to sustainability. By choosing to refurbish, you’re supporting the circular economy, minimising the demand for new materials, and helping to preserve natural resources.
The cost of Alloy Wheel Refurbishment
While there are DIY refurbishment kits available, professional services often guarantee a better finish and longer-lasting results and prices start at £60 per wheel dependent on damage and final finish required.
Risks and Alternatives to Refurbishment
Ignoring damage to your alloy wheels could lead to more serious issues down the road. Over time, untreated dents and scratches can lead to corrosion or cracks, which can compromise the safety of your vehicle. Refurbishment is a good long-term investment for both safety and value. Contact Sandown Coachworks today to find out about our Alloy Wheel Refurbishment services
