Alloy Wheels

Kerbed Alloy Wheel Repair & Scuffed Rim Fix

Kerb rash looks cosmetic. A hairline crack or buckled rim is a safety issue. The two can result from the same impact, so knowing which you are dealing with is important before deciding on a repair.

Alloy Wheels

Cosmetic Damage vs Structural Damage

Kerb rash is surface scraping on the outer rim or wheel face. The wheel is still round, holds pressure, and the tyre seats correctly. On diamond-cut alloys, kerb rash removes the machined finish and leaves a dull patch. This is cosmetic and repairable.

A hairline crack is a fracture in the metal itself, most often found on the inner barrel, around spoke roots, or along the rim face. Alloy wheels crack rather than bend under impact, and the fracture may not be visible without a close physical inspection. A buckled wheel is no longer perfectly round in cross-section. Our tyre fitting and alignment team can inspect and confirm whether the damage is cosmetic or structural.

Alloy Wheels

Common Causes of Alloy Wheel Damage

Pothole impact

the most common cause of buckling and hairline cracking; sharp, deep potholes carry the greatest risk of structural damage

Kerb mounting at speed

concentrated force on the rim edge and inner barrel; often produces kerb rash alongside hidden cracking

Repeated low-speed kerb contact

cosmetic only in most cases, but weakens the rim over time

Lacquer damage on diamond-cut alloys

once the lacquer is chipped or scuffed, moisture gets underneath and corrosion forms on the machined surface

Collision involving another vehicle

may cause wheel damage alongside wider bodywork issues; our accident claim management team can advise on recovering costs

Alloy Wheels

The Vibration Test

Rhythmic vibration through the steering wheel or seat that worsens with speed, typically most noticeable between 50 and 70 mph, points to a buckled wheel. Balancing cannot correct a wheel that is no longer round. If a recent balance has not resolved the vibration, contact our tyre fitting and alignment team to check for buckling or cracking.

Get It Looked At

If wheel damage is part of wider collision damage, our accident repair service covers both. For help deciding whether to claim, read our article on how accident claim management differs from going through your insurer.

Call 020 8798 2590 or email info@infiniti-motorgroup.co.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my alloy has a hairline crack?

Look for vibration that appeared after an impact, a tyre losing pressure repeatedly without a visible puncture, or a visible line on the inner barrel or spoke roots. Contact our tyre fitting and alignment team to arrange a physical inspection.

Is a buckled wheel dangerous?

Yes. It affects vehicle control at speed and places uneven stress on the tyre, increasing blowout risk. Get it checked promptly after any impact that produced new vibration.

Can a cracked alloy be repaired?

Minor cracks can sometimes be welded. More severe cracking usually means replacement for safety. We can advise after inspection.

Why is the lacquer bubbling on my diamond-cut wheel?

Moisture has got beneath the lacquer through a chip or scuff and corrosion is forming underneath. Polishing will not fix it. The wheel needs stripping, treating, and relacquering. On a lease, this is typically classed as chargeable damage at return.