Why Does Tire Repair Always Scratch the Wheel Hub?
3 Answers
The paint on wheel hubs is very prone to peeling off. Even a slight touch from the tire mounting/dismounting machine head can cause the paint to chip, but as long as it's not scratched off during the process, it won't affect the wheel hub. Unless it's a brand-new car, most vehicles' wheel hubs will experience this issue. If the scratches are minor, you can purchase a bottle of wheel hub repair spray paint online to fix it yourself. For more significant scratches, it's best to take it to a professional wheel hub repair shop. Additional Information: Typically, curbs and stones kicked up from the road are the biggest culprits for tire scratches. These often leave deep marks on the tires. In such cases, wheel hubs can usually be repaired. There are two main types: the first is steel wheels, commonly known as 'iron wheels,' which are frequently used in base-model vehicles. These wheels have the advantage of being more repairable—for example, they can be straightened if deformed. They are commonly used in off-road vehicles because they can withstand harsh off-road conditions and remain usable after repairs. The second type is aluminum alloy wheels. For these, minor scratches can be repaired without affecting safety. However, if cracks appear, it significantly compromises safety, and even if repairable, it's advisable to replace them outright instead.
It's a common annoyance to have wheels scratched during tire repairs. I've seen too many similar cases, mainly caused by careless use of tools during the repair process. For example, when using a pry bar to lift the tire edge, improper force control can scratch the wheel surface, especially on softer aluminum alloy wheels which are more prone to marks. Another reason might be uncleaned tools carrying small stones or dust that abrade the wheels during operation. I recommend communicating with mechanics in advance, asking them to cover wheel areas with cloth or protective film to prevent most damage. Also, choosing more professional repair shops helps, as experienced technicians handle things more carefully. Otherwise, it's truly regrettable to see brand-new wheels get scratched instantly - it affects the car's appearance and increases maintenance costs.
As an ordinary car owner, I've experienced the frustration of finding scratches on the wheel rim after tire repair. The mechanic explained that their tools, such as pry bars or pneumatic wrenches, can easily come into direct contact with the rim edge, and even a slight rush during operation can cause scratches. Especially with older cars, the wheel rim material becomes more fragile after wear and tear, making it prone to damage with just a slight touch. Later, I learned a trick: reminding the technician to handle the tools gently or use protective covers before tire repair can significantly reduce the risk. Sometimes, parking on uneven ground makes the operation difficult, so it's best to choose a flat surface for tire repair. Regular wheel rim inspections also help—spotting minor damage early allows for timely repairs, preventing bigger issues down the line. In short, this matter requires attention to detail; don't cut corners by leaving it to unreliable shops.
