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Alloy wheels, steel wheels and Diamond Cut wheels: What's the difference and what should you choose?

When choosing rims for your car, there are several different factors to consider. The choice of wheels affects both the appearance and performance of your car. Most people want a fast and good-looking car, and while many see rims as a decorative accessory, the choice of rims is actually more important in terms of practicality, safety and driveability.We take a closer look at the difference between the different types of rims, as well as the pros and cons of each.
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Grey car with close up og alloy wheels.

What are Alloy Wheels?

Silver colored alloy wheels

Alloy wheels are a type of wheel made of aluminum. It's also the type of rim that most people have for their car. In particular, most people use this type of rim for their summer tires.

There is a huge variety of alloy wheels on the market and there really is something for everyone when it comes to color and appearance. But beyond the appearance of alloy wheels, this type of wheel also comes with a number of benefits.

Most cars today are delivered with alloy wheels.

Benefits of Alloy Wheels:

Alloy wheels are made from a mixture of aluminum, magnesium, and other non-ferrous metals. This mixture is put together to strengthen the aluminum, reduce the weight of the rim, and make them extra durable.

Most people want rims that are lightweight for better handling characteristics. The contact with the road is better with lightweight rims, resulting in better fuel economy and shorter braking distances. The structure of an alloy wheel makes it more responsive, improves braking performance and allows the car to accelerate faster.

Disadvantages of Alloy Wheels:

The main disadvantage of alloy wheels is that they are more expensive than steel wheels and are more sensitive to dirt and debris. In addition, alloy wheels are also more susceptible to damage as aluminum is softer than steel.

Can Alloy Wheels be Repaired?

If you have a scratch or scuff on your alloy wheels, they can easily be repaired. In most cases, repairs are also much cheaper than buying new wheels.

We offer repairs of painted alloy wheels at a price starting at R 1 300,00. Included in the price is the repair and subsequent painting and refinishing of the rim. In addition, we're also happy to straighten your warped rims with a rim straightening service if your rims have been knocked askew in a collision or curb kiss.

What are Steel Rims?

a bent alloy wheel being restored in a wheel straightening machine.

Steel rims are a type of rim that is generally more durable than aluminum rims. Steel rims are more robust in material, which means they are more resistant to damage and don't get as dirty or grimy. Many people also choose to use hubcaps on the outside of the rim if they use steel rims, as this type of rim is not as attractive as alloy rims. A hubcap can make the rims a little nicer to look at.

Many people choose to drive with steel rims on their winter tires because winter roads are more unstable. We have to drive in road salt, snow and a lot of water. Steel rims are not damaged by driving in road salt. Road salt will change the appearance of the rim, but will not affect the structure of the rim as such.

Benefits of Steel Rims:

The advantage of steel rims is that they are typically cheaper than alloy rims and also more resistant to damage.

Due to the weight of steel rims, they provide better grip when driving in snow or ice, which is why it's a good idea to use steel rims in winter.

Disadvantages of Steel Rims:

The main disadvantage of steel rims is the heavier weight, which can affect fuel economy and vehicle handling.

There is also a disadvantage to the appearance of steel rims, as they don't look as nice as aluminum rims. This is especially a disadvantage if you want nice looking rims for your car.

Can Steel Rims be Repaired?

Yes, you can repair damage to steel rims. Read more about our rim repair services here.

What are Diamond Cut Wheels?

A closeup of a shiny diamond cut alloy wheel with black details.

A Diamond Cut rim is a type of alloy rim that has a thin layer of aluminum cut from the front of the rim, leaving a part of the rim where the aluminum is exposed. The exposed aluminum is very shiny and glossy and provides a good contrast to the colored part of the rim, which is why this type of rim is very desirable if it's all about the appearance of the rim.

Diamond Cut is made in a specially developed CNC machine that cuts the surface of the rim with a very fine diamond blade. The machine removes a very thin layer of the aluminum surface, leaving part of the rim completely exposed.

Benefits of Diamond Cut Wheels:

The advantage of having Diamond Cut rims for your car is that they are a beautiful type of rim that gives a unique look to your car. Diamond Cut wheels are very unique and stand out from the crowd.

Disadvantages of Diamond Cut Wheels:

Due to the exposed aluminum on the rim, this type of rim is also much more prone to damage than other types of rims. It doesn't take much for the rim to get scratches, scrapes or the like, and then the rim no longer looks as good.

Can Diamond Cut Wheels be Repaired?

Yes, Diamond Cut wheels can be repaired. During a Diamond Cut rim repair, the rim is placed in a specially developed machine that very finely trims the surface of the rim to smooth out scratches and other scuffs.

However, not all types of rims are suitable for Diamond Cut. It's a good idea to talk to a professional technician who can assess whether your alloy wheels are suitable for this type of renovation.

Which rims should you choose?

Technician sanding a scratch alloy wheel during an rim repair.

When choosing rims for your car, it's important to consider your preferences, driving style and budget. Alloy wheels offer a mix of performance and aesthetics, but at a higher price. Steel wheels are more affordable and durable, but lack the style and elegance of alloy wheels. Diamond Cut wheels offer a unique and eye-catching finish, but require more attention and care to maintain their appearance.

Whichever type of wheel you choose, it's important to select quality wheels that suit your car and your needs. By considering factors such as weight, durability and aesthetics, you can make the right choice and improve both the appearance and performance of your car.