Alloy Wheel Refurbishment: What It Is and Why Your Car Needs It
Your car is a big part of your daily routine, helping you get to work, run errands, and go wherever you need to. But along the way, your wheels take a beating from curbs and potholes to rough, uneven roads. Over time, even premium alloy wheels can get scratched, worn down, and lose their original shine. That’s where alloy wheel refurbishment comes in. It brings your tired wheels back to life. It’s like giving your car a fresh pair of shiny shoes, and who doesn’t love that?
What Is Alloy Wheel Refurbishment?
Alloy wheel refurbishment involves returning your wheels to their best in appearance and performance. Refurbishment starts with carefully cleaning the wheels and removing the old paint. Visible damage like scratches and dents is carefully repaired before giving the wheels a fresh, durable finish. Refurbishing your wheels isn’t just about looks—it also brings back their strength and reliability, helping keep your car safer and running smoothly for the road ahead.
Refurbishment can restore your appearance and function if your wheels are scratched or worn. Services available at Loco's Customs typically include cleaning, repairing surface damage, and refinishing, helping extend your alloy wheels' lifespan.
How to Know When Your Wheels Need Refurbishment
Sometimes the signs are clear. You might not notice other times until problems affect how your car drives. Knowing when to refurbish alloy wheels can save you from bigger headaches later. At Loco’s Customs, we help you catch the signs early.
Here are a few things to look for:
- Scratches and Dents: Minor damage can lead to bigger problems over time. These surface issues often call for immediate attention.
- Corrosion or Rust: If the surface starts bubbling or flaking, it’s a clear sign of corrosion. Left untreated, this can eat away at the alloy.
- Peeling Paint or Faded Coating: If the finish is worn or patchy, your wheels are more exposed to weather damage and road salt.
- Vibrations While Driving: Feeling a wobble at high speeds? That could be a sign of wheel imbalance or damage.
They can affect handling, safety, and even fuel efficiency. Think your wheels need a checkup? You can send us a message and we’ll look.
Why Refurbishment is More Than Just Looks
Wheel refurbishment isn’t just about boosting curb appeal, though it helps with that. Here's why proper car wheel refurbishment matters:
Safety First: Cracks, bent rims, or worn surfaces can affect how your car drives and handles. That’s why we carefully check and repair your wheels to make sure they’re strong and safe, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Longer Wheel Life: Refurbishment helps prevent small damage from worsening over time. It keeps your alloy wheels in good shape and saves you from needing costly replacements later.
Better Fuel Efficiency: Damaged wheels can affect alignment and rolling resistance. Smooth, well-balanced wheels help your car run more efficiently.
Boosted Resale Value: Freshly finished wheels—whether powder coated or precision cut—add to your vehicle’s overall value. Buyers notice the details, and clean wheels make a lasting impression.
How Are Alloy Wheels Refurbished?
At Loco’s Customs, alloy wheel refurbishment is more than just a touch-up—it’s a skilled, multi-stage process that brings life back to tired or damaged wheels. Whether you own standard alloys or stylish diamond cut alloy wheels, our team applies the same precision and care to every step. Here's how we restore your wheels with expert craftsmanship:
Tyre Removal
We begin by carefully removing the tyres from the wheels. This allows us to reach every part of the wheel for a thorough refurbishment. Whether getting powder coating alloy wheels or working with more complex diamond-cut alloy wheels, full surface access is essential for a clean, long-lasting finish.
Stripping the Old Finish
Next, we remove the old paint, lacquer, and any surface dirt or damage. We’ll use chemical stripping or media blasting, depending on how worn the wheels are. This step is important because it creates a clean, smooth base, ensuring the new finish, whether powder coating or diamond cutting, goes on evenly and lasts longer.
Repairing Wheel Damage
This is where your wheels truly get restored. Using advanced tools and techniques, we address dents, corrosion, and cosmetic flaws. Our alloy wheel repair process includes fixing bends, welding cracks, and smoothing curb damage. This is also when we carry out alloy wheel scratch repair by carefully removing even the smallest blemishes to make your wheels look as good as new.
Surface Prep and Priming
After repairs, we smooth the surface through sanding and then apply a primer. This ensures that paint or powder adheres perfectly and lasts. This step is key for a smooth and uniform result, whether we’re repainting or powder coating alloy wheels for that extra durability.
Painting or Powder Coating Depending on your style and needs, you can choose a traditional paint finish or powder coatings. We offer expert car wheel refurbishment with colour matching or custom finishes. We use CNC lathe precision cutting for diamond cut alloy wheels to achieve that reflective, polished face that makes these wheels unique.
Lacquer Application
Once your chosen finish is applied, we add a clear lacquer. This protective layer seals in the look and defends against UV rays, chips, and road grime. It also enhances shine, giving your wheels a brilliant showroom-quality appearance that lasts.
Curing and Final Polish
Next, the wheels undergo a specialised oven curing process to harden the paint or powder coating. After curing, each wheel is hand-polished to a glossy, mirror-like finish—perfect for diamond-cut alloy wheels or any freshly restored set.
Tyre Refit and Quality Control
Finally, we remount the tyres and balance the wheels for a smooth ride. Every wheel undergoes a strict quality check before being returned to your vehicle. This ensures your alloy wheel refurbishment looks great and performs safely on the road.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Damaged Wheels
Putting off small wheel issues is easy, especially if they seem cosmetic. Delaying alloy wheel refurbishment might cause mechanical issues and safety complications.
Damaged wheels can cause:
Uneven weight puts stress on the suspension
Higher rolling resistance reduces fuel efficiency.
Risk of flat tyres or blowouts from unnoticed damage
Reduced braking and control in emergencies
Let’s not forget the cosmetic side either. Worn-out wheels remove your car’s look, even if the rest is spotless. The difference between before and after alloy wheel refurbishment isn’t subtle—it’s night and day.
Final Thoughts
Your car's wheels endure daily wear and tear, often showing signs of scuffs, chips, and scratches. However, you don’t have to settle for a worn appearance. Alloy wheel refurbishment can restore your wheels to a like-new condition, improving safety and style. Whether it’s minor damage or more serious issues, addressing them early makes a difference.
Refurbishing alloy wheels is a cost-effective and efficient way to enhance the look and performance of your vehicle. From precision repairs to high-quality alloy wheel painting services, there is a tailored solution for every type of wheel damage. The transformation is clear and impressive.
FAQs
How much does it cost to refurbish alloy wheels?
Refurbishing alloy wheels usually costs between $50 and $150 per wheel, depending on size and damage. Custom finishes or deep repairs cost a bit more.
Is it worth getting alloy wheels refurbished?
Absolutely! It’s a smart way to restore your wheels’ looks and strength without spending a fortune on new ones.
How much does it cost to refurbish a set of alloys?
A full set of alloy wheels typically costs $200 to $600 to refurbish. The price varies based on wheel design and repair needs.
What is alloy wheel refurbishment?
Alloy wheel refurbishment is repairing, repainting, and restoring damaged or worn alloy wheels. It removes scratches, scuffs, and corrosion to return their original shine, making your wheels look brand new and perform safely again.
