Wheel refurbishment is a popular service in the UK, helping drivers restore their alloy wheels to a like-new condition, often after suffering from kerb damage, corrosion, or general wear and tear.
Over time, wheels can become scratched, scuffed, or chipped, which not only diminishes the appearance of the vehicle but can also impact performance and longevity. Wheel refurbishment is the process of repairing and refinishing wheels to improve both their aesthetics and function, making it a crucial part of vehicle maintenance.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about wheel refurbishment in the UK, including the types of services available, the refurbishment process, costs, and frequently asked questions.
What Is Wheel Refurbishment?
Wheel refurbishment refers to the process of repairing, restoring, and refinishing alloy wheels to their original condition or upgrading them to a customized finish. This service addresses damage from everyday use, such as scratches, kerb scuffs, corrosion, or even cracks. In some cases, refurbishment also involves repainting or powder-coating the wheels to give them a fresh look.
Refurbishing a wheel is different from replacing it. Replacement is a more expensive option and may not always be necessary unless the wheel is severely damaged or cracked beyond repair. Refurbishment allows for repairing and enhancing the wheel’s appearance at a fraction of the cost.
Why Do Wheels Need Refurbishment?
Alloy wheels are a key part of a vehicle’s appearance and performance. Over time, they endure damage from various sources:
Kerbing: Accidentally hitting a kerb while parking can cause unsightly scuffs and scratches on the wheel.
Corrosion: Exposure to road salts, especially during winter, can lead to corrosion on the wheel’s surface.
Brake Dust and Dirt: Accumulated brake dust and road dirt can cause discolouration and damage over time.
General Wear and Tear: Even with careful driving, wheels can suffer from small chips, scratches, and general wear due to road conditions.
Wheel refurbishment helps to restore the wheels’ structural integrity and appearance, making them look new while maintaining performance.
Types of Wheel Refurbishment Services in the UK
Standard Alloy Wheel Refurbishment
This involves cleaning the wheel, removing any surface damage such as kerb scuffs and light corrosion, and repainting or refinishing it with a fresh coat of paint or lacquer. This service is ideal for wheels with minor cosmetic damage.
Diamond-Cut Wheel Refurbishment
Diamond-cut wheels are a premium finish found on many high-end vehicles. The refurbishment process involves cutting the surface of the wheel with a precision diamond-tipped lathe, leaving a shiny, metallic finish. This is a specialized service, often more expensive due to the intricate nature of the process.
Powder Coating
Powder coating is a popular option for wheel refurbishment. It involves applying a dry powder to the wheel and curing it in an oven, which provides a durable, long-lasting finish. Powder coating is highly resistant to chips, scratches, and corrosion, making it ideal for wheels that endure harsh conditions.
Crack Repairs and Welding
In cases where a wheel has sustained structural damage such as cracks or splits, a more in-depth repair process is required. Welders can repair cracks in the alloy, strengthening the wheel and restoring its integrity. This service is critical for safety and preventing further damage.
Custom Wheel Finishes
Many UK refurbishment specialists offer custom finishes, allowing you to choose from a wide range of colours and effects, including matte, gloss, metallic, or even bespoke designs. This option is particularly popular among car enthusiasts looking to personalise their vehicles.
The Wheel Refurbishment Process
The refurbishment process can vary depending on the type of damage and service required. Here is a general overview of how a typical wheel refurbishment is carried out:
Inspection: The first step is a thorough inspection of the wheel to assess the level of damage and determine the best course of action.
Wheel Stripping: The wheel is removed from the vehicle, and any existing paint or coating is stripped away, often using chemical baths or blasting techniques. This prepares the wheel for the next steps.
Repairing Damage: Any kerb scuffs, chips, scratches, or cracks are repaired. This might involve sanding, filling in deep scratches, or welding to fix cracks.
Resurfacing: For diamond-cut wheels, this involves using a precision lathe to cut away a thin layer of metal, creating a smooth and shiny finish.
Coating or Painting: Once the wheel has been repaired, it is repainted, powder-coated, or finished according to the desired effect. This can involve applying a primer, base colour, and topcoat, followed by curing in an oven to harden the finish.
Final Inspection and Fitting: After the refurbishment is complete, the wheel undergoes a final quality inspection to ensure the finish is flawless. It is then rebalanced and refitted onto the vehicle.
Costs of Wheel Refurbishment in the UK
The cost of wheel refurbishment can vary significantly based on factors such as the type of wheel, the level of damage, and the service chosen. Here is a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay in the UK:
Standard Alloy Wheel Refurbishment: £50-£90 per wheel
Diamond-Cut Wheel Refurbishment: £90-£150 per wheel
Powder Coating: £70-£100 per wheel
Crack Repair and Welding: £50-£80 per wheel
Prices can vary based on the location of the service, the size of the wheels, and the specific customisations involved. It’s always best to get a quote from multiple specialists before deciding on a provider.
How Long Does Wheel Refurbishment Take?
The time it takes to refurbish a wheel can depend on the extent of the damage and the type of service chosen. On average:
Standard refurbishments can take between 1 to 3 days.
Diamond-cut refurbishments may take up to 5 days due to the complexity of the process.
Powder coating typically takes 2 to 4 days.
Welding and crack repairs may add additional time, especially if the wheel needs to be reassessed for safety.
If you need your car back quickly, some companies offer express services, though this may come with an additional cost.
DIY vs. Professional Wheel Refurbishment
Some vehicle owners may consider refurbishing their wheels as a DIY project, especially if they only have minor cosmetic damage. While there are kits available for touch-ups, achieving a professional finish can be challenging without the proper tools and expertise. Professional wheel refurbishment ensures that the job is done to a high standard, with durable and long-lasting results.
For more serious damage, such as cracks or deep kerb scuffs, a DIY approach is not recommended due to the safety risks involved. Professional refurbishment services have the equipment and skills to repair and restore wheels safely.
Choosing a Wheel Refurbishment Specialist
When selecting a wheel refurbishment specialist in the UK, there are several factors to consider:
Look for feedback from others who have used the service to see if it meets your expectations.Many reputable companies have galleries of their past work online.
Experience and Expertise: Choose a specialist with experience in handling your specific type of wheels, especially if you have diamond-cut or custom-finished wheels.
Range of Services: Some companies offer more comprehensive services, including mobile wheel refurbishment where they come to you, or same-day express services for added convenience.
Warranty: A good refurbishment service should offer some form of guarantee or warranty on their work, ensuring that you can return if any issues arise.
FAQs
Q: What is wheel refurbishment?
A: Wheel refurbishment is the process of restoring alloy wheels to a near-new condition. This can involve repairing scratches, scuffs, and damage caused by kerbing, as well as repainting and polishing to enhance the wheels’ appearance.
Q: How long does the refurbishment process take?
A: The duration of refurbishment can vary. Typically, a full refurbishment takes about 2 to 3 working days, depending on the condition of the wheels and the type of refurbishment required. For diamond-cut wheels, you might need to leave them for around 7 days due to the specialized techniques involved.
Q: Can all types of wheels be refurbished?
A: Yes, most alloy and steel wheels can be refurbished. This includes painted, polished, and diamond-cut wheels, as well as split rims.However, certain types of damage, such as severe structural cracks, might require more specialized repair techniques or replacement.
Q: Do I need to remove my tyres before refurbishment?
A: No, most refurbishment services will handle tyre removal and refitting as part of the process. However, it’s essential to inform the service provider if you want to use the same tyres or if you wish to buy new ones.
Future Directions
Wheel refurbishment in the UK offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to restore and improve the appearance and performance of your vehicle’s alloy wheels. Whether you’re dealing with kerb damage, corrosion, or simply want to customise the look of your wheels, a professional refurbishment can bring them back to life.
With various services available, from standard repairs to diamond-cut and powder coating, it’s important to choose the right option for your needs and budget. Taking the time to select a trusted specialist will ensure that your wheels are in good hands, keeping your car looking and performing its best.
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