Alloy wheels play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and style of a car. However, for a car to run smoothly on the road, there is another aspect which is as important as alloy wheels. It is the car’s full efficiency. You will come across many drivers focusing on engine health and tyre pressure to improve the fuel economy. If you have damaged or neglected alloy wheels, it will negatively impact your car’s fuel efficiency. For alloys in Hartlepool, contact the renowned garage that can help you understand the issues with your wheels and repair them promptly.
How can damaged alloy wheels increase fuel consumption?
Minor and insignificant alloy wheel damage can create inefficiencies in the car over time. Again, if there are visible dents, cracks, or misalignment in your wheels, it will interfere with the smooth driving performance of your car. This will make your engine work harder and increase fuel consumption in the long run.
Rolling resistance
When the alloy wheels are out of balance, the car will experience uneven rotation. This will result in higher rolling resistance, requiring more power or fuel to maintain a consistent speed on the road. This, in turn, leads to high fuel consumption and reduces the car’s fuel efficiency.
Misalignment, bends and cracks
If the wheels of your car are damaged, misaligned, cracked, or the rim is bent, then it will change the complete alignment of the wheel. These poor alignments will cause the car’s wheels to drag, creating friction between the wheel and the road surface. When your car drags along, it will burn more fuel and ultimately become unstable.
Excess strain on suspension and tires
If the wheels are damaged, it will put excess strain on the car’s suspension and tyres. This imbalance of the wheels will lead to premature wear and tear, causing the car to use more energy than it requires to remain stable on the road. This process, in turn, reduces the car’s fuel economy.
What are the common types of alloy wheel damage?
Kerb damage
When your car suddenly hits a kerb or pothole at high speed, the wheels might bend or crack under pressure. This is especially common during the winter and spring seasons, when roads are often damaged. Again, corrosion causes the rims of the wheels to wear over time, and this can also lead to kerb damage.
Crack alloy wheels and bend rims
Cracks are more dangerous on the wheels compared to the bent rims. While both damages significantly reduce fuel efficiency, cracks pose a risk of air leakage from the tire, which can compromise the structural integrity. Bent rims, on the other hand, will affect the alignment of the wheels and the fuel consumption.
Are you stuck with a scratched alloy wheel? Do not replace it; instead, have it refurbished by professional mechanics from RS Alloy Refurb Ltd. With professional alloy wheel refurbishment, you can give your wheels a new lease of life. Proper alloy refurbishment services can not only improve the aesthetics of the wheel but also add a protective covering.