09/10/2023
Buying Used Rims - Tips and Advice
Buying used rims is often a good decision that customers do not regret, provided it is not cheap plagiarism but original parts from the manufacturer. Used original rims and complete wheels can usually withstand a lot. However, customers and interested buyers often report to us that they have had bad experiences when buying used rims and/or complete wheels. In general, there are a few things to consider when buying used rims. You can find some tips for it in this article.
First: Should I Buy Used Rims Privately or from a Dealer?
The very first question is: Where do you want to buy used rims? One possibility is buying from private parties, for example from Ebay or on second-hand markets. Mostly, favorable prices attract, but there is a big disadvantage: unlike dealers, private sellers do not offer any warranty or guarantee. Especially in the case of used goods, where safety (tires and rims) is a major concern, a few dollars more should be a long way off and it is better to go to a specialized dealer. Nevertheless: You should examine the wares carefully, even with specialized dealers. We’ll tell you more about this later.
Buying Used Rims: Do Your Research
Before buying used rims or used complete wheels, it is essential to determine the dimensions of your own vehicle. That is, conscientiously check the most important technical data of your car:- Material of your rims (e.g. steel or light alloy)
- Size of the rims, usually in the unit of measurement inch, of diameter and width
- Number of bolt holes
- Dimension of the mounted tires
- Offset in millimeters
- Diameter of the bolts of the wheels
Buying Used Rims: Aluminum or Steel?
Before buying, you need to decide - steel rims or alloy rims? This is not so easy to answer in a general way. On the one hand, of course, personal taste plays a role. On the other, which is far more important, you need to know what your vehicle is approved for. Keep your wallet in mind; as aluminum rims are usually more expensive than those made of steel. The following is a brief overview of the pros and cons of aluminum or alloy rims:
Advantages of alloy wheels
- Aluminum rims are visually more impressive
- Alloy rims reduce the weight of the vehicle
- Alloy rims do not rust
- Light alloy rims increase driving comfort due to the smaller ratio of the tire sidewall to the tread
- Alloy rims absorb shocks and dampers better than steel rims
- Light metal has higher thermal conductivity, therefore they are gentler on brakes
- Aluminum rims do not require hubcaps, which can come off or be stolen
Disadvantages of alloy rims
- Alloy rims are more expensive than steel rims
- Light alloy rims are more sensitive than steel rims
- Alloy rims require more maintenance
- Aluminum rims scratch very quickly (which is quickly noticeable on curbs)
- Aluminum rims deform faster than steel rims
- The life span of aluminum rims is usually shorter
- As you can see, it is purely a matter of taste and weighing up which type of rims or complete wheels you choose.
Checking Damages of Your Used Rims and Complete Wheel Sets
Before you decide to buy used alloy rims or used complete wheel sets, be sure to check them for damage. Even minor damage that is not visible at first glance can render rims unusable.Be Suspicious of even the Smallest Damage to Used Rims
A popular trick of windy private sellers and dealers is to roughly patch used rims or complete wheels with repair kits and to attach great importance to cleaning so that the products look visually good. In this way, small hairline cracks are often concealed, but these can later lead to devastating rim fractures.
Of course, not every scratch is immediately irreparable damage that prevents you from buying. Especially small edge damages can usually be repaired without any problems. Small scratches or nicks are unavoidable, especially on goods that are sensitive in everyday use, such as rims. You should be careful if the color of the metal has changed in some places or if the rim looks brand new. Other indications of damage are:
- wide scratches or indentations with more than 4 mm
- excessive imbalances and
- conspicuous, uneven dents
Do not Buy Rims if they are Cracked
Hairline cracks are irreparable damage, because they inevitably become larger. Even if they are welded shut, the weld seams will open again sooner or later, or in the immediate vicinity. With hairline cracks, the risk of the rim cracking sooner or later while driving - especially at high speed - is very high. Do not under any circumstances allow such cracks to be downplayed when buying. Often sellers state that small cracks are normal and not a big deal. However, please refrain from buying such rims!Buying Used Rims and complete Wheels in Case of Imbalances
Even if they look more dangerous than cracks at first sight - smaller imbalances can be repaired (cost: approx. 90 $). However, if the imbalance is clearly visible to the naked eye, you should refrain from buying.