Can a bent or broken rim be fixed?

Did you take that curb a little too close? Salt from iced out roads keeping your rims from shining their brightest? Or maybe an unexpected pothole just ruined your day?

The harsh truth is that our wheels take quite a beating over their lifetime. They are regularly exposed to road hazards like potholes, curbs, road debris and chemicals from weather-treated roads.

(Do you live in a winter region? Check out winter wheels to save your regular rims from harsh winter conditions!)

What are motorists supposed to do in the event their rim is bent, broken or damaged?

BROKEN RIMS & REPAIR

Damage to your wheels is a serious matter because the structural integrity of your wheel supports your entire vehicle. It also provides a frame for your tire. If your wheel fails, so will your tire.

Common types of wheel damage include corrosion, dents, cracks, scratches and bends. These occur both in on and off-road conditions.

(You can check out our picks for the top off-road wheels for high strength and durable adventuring options!)

Luckily, Discount Tire is both your tire and wheel expert!

Not only do we stock the largest inventory of the best quality wheels on the market to help you replace your rims, we also can help you maintain and repair your wheels too.

We will carefully examine your wheel and determine if the wheel can be repaired safely. We will not attempt to repair a wheel that cannot be safely returned to strict safe operating standards.

If you’re looking for a fantastic gift idea, check out our guide on how to buy wheels as a gift!

When do you need to replace rims/wheels?

You should replace your wheels whenever they become structurally compromised and/or stop working properly (such as causing handling or braking issues). Broken or compromised rims can cause unsafe tire conditions, such as a blowout or air leak.

Make it a habit to visually check your rims regularly for cracks, dents, chips, bends and other imperfections.

Even minor damage, like a tiny crack, can cause huge long-term and life-threatening damage. Have your local Discount Tire examine any damage to make sure it doesn’t need to be replaced.

You can also replace your wheels at any time for aesthetic reasons. Check out our wheel visualizer to preview your future rims on your vehicle!

Can you drive on a bent rim?

You should not drive on a bent rim.

Discount Tire strongly recommends that, in the event of a bent rim or other wheel damage, you seek out service and repair immediately. To be as safe as possible, get a tow to your closest service station.

Even a minor bend can damage your wheel even further. You also risk damaging your tire and steering components. Bent rims can cause air leaks, decreasing handling, fuel efficiency and tire safety. Compromised tires will not function as well and may result in flats or blowouts.

Can you fix a cracked alloy wheel?

Yes, you can repair a cracked alloy wheel but it needs specialized tools, materials and skills. Damaged alloy wheels require welding to form a strong bond and refurbishing to result in a smooth finish. However, Discount Tire does not recommend doing this yourself but instead to take your damaged alloy wheel to professionals. Proper training and equipment are vital to safely repairing alloy rims.

You may need to replace the entire rim if the damage is too extensive.

Ready to roll?

Good wheel and tire maintenance with regular wheel cleaning is vital to keeping your rims healthy.

If you have any questions or concerns, please come to us. Safety is our number-one concern and making sure you roll out of our bays safe and satisfied is our ultimate goal.

Walk-ins are always welcome but we also encourage you to buy and make your appointment online first. Wait less time when you buy and book online!

For more information on this and other tire and wheel services, check out our YouTube Channel or reach out to us on X, Facebook and Instagram.