Rims and wheels can get damaged in a variety of ways. The type of fix required to repair the wheel or rim is also impacted by the type of material they are made out of. If you were wondering what the process looks like, what it costs, and where to get it done that’s what I will share here. Below we will discuss how wheels and rims get repaired and I’ll share my experience with the place that does wheel and rim repair near me.
Map of Wheel and Rim Repair Near Me
For “Rim Repair Near Me” or Wheel Repair Near Me”, see below for locations…
For the most part, all these shops deal with the same issues. How it’s done near me should be similar to how they do it near you. According to my local rim repair shop, the most common cause of rim damage are curb rash and scratches, bent rims, and cracked wheels. For more clarity, you can read about the parts of a wheel.
Below I will discuss how the 3 most common issues are addressed by repair shops.
Curb Rash and Scratches
Average cost to repair: About $50 to $150 per wheel.
Of the 3 most common issues curb rash and scratches are the most straightforward for a repair shop to fix. Curb rash and scratches occur when your rim rubs up against the curb and causes surface level damage to your rim. By surface level, these are otherwise described as scratches and nicks.
First, the surface of the wheel needs to be smoothed out using fine-grained sandpaper. If there was a clear coat on it, then the whole wheel needs to be treated in order to keep the color consistent throughout. The process is iterative, going over and over with even finer-grained sandpaper. This is done in to get to a level where all the scratches are gone. At the wheel and rim repair near me, they have hi-tech machinery that does the sanding in order to smooth out any and all imperfections.
Once the sanding is done, the wheel needs to be refinished. The process here will vary based on the type of material the wheel is made out of and what type of paint and finish it has on it.
Bent Wheels
Average cost to repair: About $75 per wheel if it is lite damage; up to $200 if refinishing, repainting, and additional other repair services are required.
A bent wheel and occurs when you hit something really hard like a pothole. Bending the wheel or rim requires a pretty large force, but happens more often than you may think. As hard as it is to bend a wheel, bending it back into a perfect shape safe to drive on is also a challenge. You should probably not try doing this yourself as a repair shop will do this more efficiently with a hydraulic press and make sure the wheel and rim are safe.
At the wheel repair near me, they use a hydraulic press in combination with high heat in order to manipulate the metal back into shape. Depending on the level of damage, getting it back to a safe state may be impossible.
Cracked Wheels
Average cost to repair: $80 to $125 to fix a small crack; $200 to $500 to replace the rim.
Just as bent wheels are caused by hitting something hard, like a curb or pothole, cracking the wheel is also possible. For a cracked wheel, first it needs to be looked at to see if it is also bent. If it is bent, they need to use a hydraulic press and heat to restore its original shape.
For dealing with the crack a shop will fill the cracks of the rim and then weld it. The purpose here is to fill in the crack and bring back the structural integrity of the wheel. Then it needs to be sanded down in order to smooth out and remove any imperfections. Then similar to the curb rash process the wheel needs to be refinished.
Why Wheel & Rim Repair is Essential?
In today’s fast-paced auto industry, the importance of maintaining the integrity of one’s vehicle cannot be overstated. Among the many components of a car, the wheels play a pivotal role in ensuring safety, aesthetic appeal, and optimal performance.
Safety Concerns Related to Damaged Wheels and Rims
Driving with cracked rims or wheels that need wheel repair can be a hazard not only to the driver but also to others on the road. A damaged wheel rim can compromise the balance of the vehicle, leading to uneven tire wear and potentially causing accidents.
Potholes, a common menace on many roads, can exacerbate these issues, leading to rims getting scratched or even breaking. Hence, seeking a professional service like rim repair services or specific wheel repair services becomes imperative.
Aesthetic appeal and vehicle value
A car’s appearance speaks volumes about its owner. Wheels that are in their original condition, free from dents and scratches, enhance the vehicle’s overall look. A freshly painted wheel or one that’s been powder coated can make a significant difference in the car’s aesthetic appeal.
Moreover, when it’s time for a resale, potential buyers often walk around the vehicle, inspecting every detail. A car with well-maintained wheels can fetch more dollars in the market compared to one with damaged rims.
Impact on vehicle performance
The performance of a car doesn’t just stand on its engine or suspension. The condition of its four wheels matters significantly. Damaged wheels can affect the vehicle’s balance, leading to uneven tire wear and strain on the suspension.
This is where alloy wheel repair specialists come into play. Their team of skilled technicians can restore wheels to their original condition, ensuring that the vehicle runs smoothly. Furthermore, regular repairs and repairing any damage promptly can save money in the long run, as it can prevent the need for a complete replacement of the wheel or rim.
Whether it’s a simple rim repaired job or a more detailed wheel repairs request, it’s essential to schedule an appointment without any wait. Given the risks and the benefits, it’s a matter of both safety and pride to ensure that your vehicle’s wheels are always in top-notch condition.
Rim Repair Near Me: Additional Costs and Services
You may run into some shops that will charge an extra $10 for unmounting the tire.
If you are someone who cares about the look of your vehicle, you may want to consider having all 4 wheels looked at so they match perfectly. That would run you about $50 per tire for paint or powder coating matching, plus unmounting fees. In some shops, they may even rechrome your wheels for $150-$200.
Dangers of Driving on a Damaged Rim or Wheel
Driving on a damaged wheel or rim can decrease your air tire pressure over time. Low tire pressure can then lead to a flat or a total blowout. Bent rims can also lead to misalignment, which can make the car difficult to steer safely.
Signs that You have a Bent Wheel
Unsure if your rim is bent, look for these 4 signs:
- Vibrating and Shaking When Steering: This is one of the best indicators that you have a bent rim. You can often feel it in the steering column, The shaking and vibration are caused by the wheel making uneven contact with the road. You can often really feel it in a turn.
- Your Vehicle Isn’t Handling Correctly: Bent rims can lead to low tire pressure and impact handling. If you feel like the steering is a bit “mushy”, it could be a sign the wheel is bent.
- There is Visible Damage to the Wheel: Wheel damage normally is pretty obvious, but it can be hidden if you have hub caps. You can easily take them off and do a quick visual inspection. You can also run your hand circular around the wheel and see if any parts of it feel uneven.
- The Tire Keeps Losing Air: When a wheel gets bent the tire and rim may have separation around the bead and cause air to leak out. Loosing air is not always a sign of a bent wheel, but it could be in some circumstances.
Can You Repair a Bent Rim or Wheel Yourself?
In some instances, you can depending on the level of damage. Scratches and curb rash may be fine to deal with on your own.
For anything beyond that like a bent or cracked wheel, my advice is to seek a pro wheel shop. Not only will they do this more efficiently, but driving on a wheel that isn’t properly straightened is very dangerous. This is even more true if you have purchased some junkyard rims and you don’t even know what caused the damage in the first place.
If you were to try this on your own I would recommend a few things:
- Tools: Screwdriver, clippers, and pliers. Also sandpaper and a metal filer.
- Cleaning Materials: Dish soap, water, and a sponge. If the wheel has a lot of grease you may need a stronger cleaning agent.
For tips on doing a wheel repair yourself, watch this video…
Benefits of Professional Wheel & Rim Repair Services
When you notice damage to your vehicle’s wheels or rims, your first instinct might be to search for “wheel rim repair near me” on your preferred search engine. This is a wise move, as opting for professional repair services offers a plethora of advantages:
- Expertise and Specialized Equipment: Professionals in the wheel and rim repair industry have undergone extensive training to handle various types of damage. Their amazing expertise ensures that the repair is done correctly, preserving the integrity and safety of the wheel. Moreover, they utilize specialized equipment tailored for specific repair needs, ensuring precision and quality. This is particularly crucial when dealing with branded wheels, as each brand might have unique specifications and requirements.
- Cost-effective Compared to Replacement: While the initial cost of repair might seem like an added expense, it’s a mere fraction of the cost you’d incur if you were to replace the entire wheel or rim. Replacement, especially for high-end brands, can be quite expensive. By opting for repair, you’re essentially saving money in the long run. Additionally, professionals can provide cosmetic enhancements during the repair process, restoring the wheel’s appearance to its original glory. This cosmetic touch-up can significantly boost the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle without the need for a complete wheel replacement.
- Extended Lifespan of Wheels and Rims: Professional repair not only addresses the immediate damage but also reinforces the wheel’s structure, ensuring it can withstand future challenges. Whether it’s the daily wear and tear from traffic, potential impacts from potholes, or other road hazards, a professionally repaired wheel is more resilient. This means you get more mileage out of your wheels and rims, extending their lifespan and ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
- Convenience and Efficiency: One of the underrated benefits of professional rim repair services is the convenience it offer. Many repair services, understanding the busy schedules of their clients, offer efficient turnaround times. Some even provide shipping options, where they’ll ship the repaired wheel back to your location, reducing the hassle on your end.
Where to Get a Wheel and Rim Repair Near Me
Most big box brands only deal with tires and they won’t deal with fixing wheels rims and wheel damage. Aside from doing a Google search for “Rim Repair Near Me” and “Wheel Repair Near Me”, There are some places you can particularly look for.
Here are a few popular wheel and rim repair shops:
If you check out any of these places, no one lists prices, because damage can vary greatly place the material of the wheel needs to be considered. Most of these shops will want to assess the damage first and then tell you if it is fixable before providing a quote.
You should also call around and get several quotes. Some of the price ranges really vary a lot from shop to shop. This is what I have learned from the wheel and rim repair near me. If you are curious how wheel and rim damage impacts their resale value of them, check out our rim grading chart.
Wheel and Rim Repair Near Me – Conclusion
Driving around on a damaged rim is dangerous. If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of damage to the wheel or rim, you should have a mechanic look at it immediately. It would be better to seek a tire shop, but having any auto mechanic assess the issue is a great start. While curb rash and scratches aren’t critical to your safety a bent or cracked rim certainly are. Pricing will vary based on the material of your wheel and the extent of damage you have. This is what I have learned from the wheel and rim repair near me.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Wheel Rim Repair Near Me
How Much Does It Cost for Rim Repair Near Me?
The cost to fix a rim will vary depending on the type of damage and the material the rim is made out of. For curb rash on a steel rim $50-$150, on an aluminum/alloy rim $50-$100 (the original color is hard to match, chrome requires replating $200-$500 and often it’s easier to replace, Plastic rims need to be replaced.
How Does a Rim Get Damaged?
Rims most commonly get damaged from hitting curbs (causing rim rash) and potholes (causing cracked rims or bent rims). Another common cause of rim damage is low-profile tires on a rough road. When you hit a pothole in low-profile tires there isn’t any protection for the rim and it takes most of the shock.
What Happens if My Rim Gets Bent?
A bent rim can cause your tire to leak air, which results in poor handling and lower fuel economy. It can also throw off the alignment of your vehicle. From a safety perspective, it can cause your vehicle to wobble and pull which will impact your ability to drive straight.
Can Cracked Rims Be Repaired?
It depends on the size of the crack and the type of material the rim is made out of. A rim repair pro can weld a hairline crack and infuse enough stability to drive on. The longer and wider the crack is though, the less likely the repair is to hold up over time. So if your rim is cracked you should have it looked at immediately.
Can I Replace Just One Rim?
Replacing one rim is fine, as long as it is sized correctly. Ideally, you should replace it with the same type of rim as the other three wheels have. This will ensure that the weight and grip characteristics of your vehicle stay aligned and balanced.
Will A Bent Rim Leak Air?
A bent rim can leak air. This occurs when the part of the rim that contacts the tire bead becomes unsealed, air can leak out. If left untreated your tire will slowly leak air. There is a potential for you to also experience a flat tire or a blowout.