Bent Rim. Repair or Replace?

1. Severity of the damage: If the rim is severely bent or structurally compromised within the spokes (hub-centric bend), it is generally recommended to replace it. However, a majority of bends occur in the barrel of the wheel and can be safely repaired by a wheel professional.  2. Repair cost: Today’s aluminum rims can be very expensive. Assess the cost of repairing the bent rim compared to the cost of a replacement rim. Nearly all bends can be repaired at a lower cost, but steel rims can often be replaced for the same cost as repair.  3. Wheel availability: Consider the availability of a replacement rim for your specific make and model of the car. If finding a suitable replacement is challenging or costly, repairing the bent rim might be a more practical option. Aftermarket rims are especially difficult to replace. Styles are often discontinued within 2-3 years.  4. Future durability: A properly repaired rim is as durable or strong as a new one. If a professional repair method is used, the structural integrity of the rim is not compromised. However, recurrent cracking and welding in the same location calls for a replacement rim.  5. Professional evaluation: Seek the advice of a professional wheel repair service. They can assess the extent of the damage and provide a recommendation based on their expertise. Their evaluation can help you make a more informed decision.