How to Repair a Deformed Car Steel Rim?
2 Answers
Repair methods for deformed car steel rims are as follows: 1. Locate the deformed area of the rim, mount the rim on a fixture, and use a calibration dial gauge to find and correct the deformation; 2. Apply localized heating to the deformed area using a blowtorch. The small red dots on the rim are from an infrared thermometer, and heating should stop once the desired temperature is reached; 3. Once the rim softens at the appropriate temperature, perform repeated minor corrections using a small hydraulic jack. The car steel rim, also known as the car wheel hub, is a cylindrical metal component that supports the tire from within and is mounted centrally on the axle. It is also referred to as the rim, steel rim, wheel, or wheel disc. Wheel hubs can generally be categorized into two types: painted and plated, with plated hubs further divided into silver plating, water plating, and pure plating, among others.
I've been driving for decades and have encountered wheel rim deformation several times, mostly due to bumpy roads or minor collisions. Fixing it is actually quite delicate. If the deformation isn't severe, such as a slight dent, you can take it to a repair shop where they can slowly hammer it back into shape using a straightening machine, which works well. But for severe deformation, don't attempt it randomly as it can damage the entire wheel structure. After repair, a dynamic balance test is essential; otherwise, the car will shake while driving, affecting handling and tire lifespan. Personally, I believe this job should be left to professionals—DIY poses too much risk and could compromise safety. Whenever I wash my car, I inspect the wheel surface to catch issues early. A repair typically costs around 100-200 yuan, much cheaper than replacing a new rim, but safety comes first, so don't hesitate—get it fixed at a reliable shop if deformed. Regular wheel inspections are also crucial to prevent major problems.
