At what level of damage does a wheel hub need to be replaced?
3 Answers
If the outermost edge of the wheel hub is chipped off, then the wheel hub needs to be replaced as it will affect the airtightness of the tire. Here are some considerations: 1. Registration: Changing the size of the wheel hub and tire requires registration at the vehicle management office to update the driving license for normal transfer and annual inspection. 2. Selection: The wheel hub is the circular metal component mounted on the axle that supports the tire from the inside, also known as the rim or steel ring. Wheel hubs come in various types based on diameter, width, forming method, and material. Choose a hub suitable for long-distance travel that is economical and durable. 3. Increase range: Generally, without changing the wheel hub, the tire width can be increased (or decreased) by 1-2 levels. For example, a standard 215 hub can be directly replaced with a 220 or maximum 225 hub. However, changing to a 235 hub poses safety risks, mainly because it can easily cause the tire to dislodge during emergency braking.
At what level of damage does a wheel rim need to be replaced? I've learned several lessons from experience. Minor scratches or small dents can generally be repaired without replacement—for example, by having a professional shop hammer them flat or polish them out—as long as they don't affect the rim's shape or its fit with the tire. However, if the damage is too deep, causing cracks, or if the rim is severely deformed, leading to air leaks or significant driving vibration, it must be replaced immediately. I remember once hitting a pothole and getting a small crack in the rim. I thought I could make do, but within two days, it started slowly losing air, and eventually, the tire was ruined. The key issue with rim damage is whether it threatens safety or affects the vehicle's balance: a deformed rim can cause wheel misalignment and braking problems. So now, I inspect my rims very carefully—minor damage gets repaired, serious damage gets replaced. Safety should never be compromised.
The severity of wheel damage determines whether replacement is needed. As a daily driver, I frequently encounter such situations. For minor scratches or light scuffs that don't affect sealing, simple treatments like spray painting can suffice - no need for immediate replacement. However, if the wheel shows obvious deformation (like dents or bends after hitting a curb), it will cause abnormal vibrations affecting handling, making replacement advisable. Once when my wheel was warped, I experienced tire deflation and alignment issues - inspection revealed severe deformation requiring replacement. Cracks are most dangerous as they may cause sudden blowouts. Additionally, if repair costs approach the price of a new wheel, replacement makes more sense. Regular maintenance helps prevent major issues. I recommend novice drivers avoid potholes to protect wheels and minimize major repairs.
