Keeping your alloy wheels in pristine condition requires a substantial amount of care, attention, and understanding of potential dangers that may cause damage. The allure of alloy wheels stems from their impact on vehicle aesthetics, performance, and resale value. As such, it is crucial to be aware of the common alloy wheel damages and learn how to avoid or minimise their occurrence in order to maintain the longevity and functionality of your alloy wheels.
East Coast Coatings specialises in alloy wheel refurbishment and powder coating and is devoted to offering top-quality services at competitive prices. We understand that prevention is as important as refurbishment to keep your wheels looking their best. This enlightening blog post will provide essential tips and practical advice on avoiding common alloy wheel damages such as curb rash, potholes, and corrosion.
By considering our expert recommendations and incorporating them into your daily driving practices, you can protect your alloy wheels from potential harm and ensure they remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Join us on this journey of exploring the different potential risks to your alloy wheels and uncovering invaluable preventive measures. With East Coast Coatings as your alloy wheel care partner, you can rely on our expertise, repair services, and ongoing guidance to help you maintain the visual appeal and performance of your wheels, prolonging their lifespan and enhancing your overall vehicle ownership experience.
Curb Rash: A Common Alloy Wheel Offender
Curb rash, or scuffs and scratches caused by rubbing your wheels against a kerb or pavement, is one of the most common forms of alloy wheel damage. Preventing curb rash mainly depends on your driving habits and awareness. Here are three essential tips for avoiding this unsightly damage:
1. Always Be Vigilant: When manoeuvring close to kerbs, especially during parking, pay close attention to your side mirrors and adopt a cautious, slow approach to prevent accidental contact with the kerb.
2. Know Your Vehicle’s Dimensions: Familiarise yourself with your vehicle’s width and turning radius to gauge the necessary distance between your car and the kerb while manoeuvring.
3. Use Parking Sensors and Cameras: Modern vehicles often come equipped with parking sensors and cameras that can help you judge distance and steer clear of kerbs. Make the most of these technological aids, and if your vehicle does not come equipped with these features, consider investing in aftermarket options.
Battling Corrosion: A Persistent Threat
Corrosion is the result of moisture, road salt, and other elements reacting with the alloy wheel’s metal. Prolonged exposure to these factors can cause deterioration and compromise the wheel’s integrity. To mitigate the risk of corrosion:
1. Regular Cleaning: Wash your wheels frequently, aiming for at least once a week, to remove contaminants before they have a chance to settle and damage the wheels. Proper cleaning, using a pH-neutral wheel cleaner and appropriate tools, is crucial to prevent accidental harm.
2. Protective Coatings: Apply a high-quality alloy wheel sealant and wax to create a barrier against moisture and road salt, further safeguarding your wheels from corrosion.
3. Early Damage Repair: Address minor dents, scratches or chips early, as they can expose the underlayer of the wheel to the elements and make them more susceptible to corrosion.
Dodging Potholes: Drive Safe and Smart
Potholes can cause significant damage to your alloy wheels, either in the form of a single severe incident or through the accumulation of minor damages over time. The best ways to avoid pothole damage are:
1. Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you, allowing better visibility of the road and giving you more time to react to any potholes you encounter.
2. Reduce Speed: When approaching a pothole, it’s vital to reduce your speed and drive carefully to minimise potential impact and damage to your wheels.
3. Avoid Sudden Turns: Abrupt steering wheel movements to avoid a pothole can put excessive stress on your wheels or tyres. Instead, aim for smooth, controlled steering to navigate around potholes safely.
4. Tyre Pressure Checks: Ensuring your tyres are properly inflated can help minimise wheel damage caused by potholes. Maintain the correct pressure as dictated by your vehicle’s specifications.
Utilising East Coast Coatings’ Expertise in Refurbishment and Protection
Despite following these preventative measures, you may still occasionally encounter wheel damage. East Coast Coatings is here to offer our professional alloy wheel refurbishment and powder coating services to restore your wheels’ appearance and functionality:
1. Expert Assessment: We will thoroughly inspect your damaged alloy wheels, determining the ideal course of action to repair and refurbish them.
2. Alloy Wheel Refurbishment: Our proficient technicians can seamlessly repair and restore your alloy wheels, effectively erasing signs of damage and restoring their original lustre.
3. Powder Coating for an Enhanced Finish: Capitalising on the benefits of powder coating, we can apply a long-lasting, protective finish to your refurbished wheels to increase their resistance to corrosion, chipping, and fading.
Conclusion:
Proactively protecting your alloy wheels from common damages such as curb rash, corrosion, and potholes preserves their visual appeal and extends their lifespan. You can effectively keep your alloy wheels in top-notch condition by employing cautious driving techniques, diligent cleaning and maintenance practices, and utilising the expert services offered by East Coast Coatings.
As a leading alloy wheel refurbishment business in Larne, Co. Antrim, our primary focus is on delivering impeccable services and customer satisfaction. Trust in the expertise of East Coast Coatings to guide you through your preventative care journey and provide exceptional alloy wheel refurbishment and powder coating services whenever the need arises. Together, we can keep your alloy wheels looking their best and performing optimally for years to come.