Car wheels are susceptible to damage from potholes, curbs and general wear and tear. When a wheel gets damaged, it can disrupt your daily routine and potentially compromise your vehicle's safety until you can arrange wheel repair or replacement. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to get back on the road safely.

Is it Covered Under Your Insurance Policy?

The first step is to determine whether the damage is covered by your car insurance policy. Contact your insurance company and provide them with details about the damage so you can find out if it’s included in your coverage. Some policies may cover wheel damage under comprehensive or collision coverage, while others might not. Understanding your policy's specifics can save you significant repair costs.

Can You Claim Compensation from VicRoads?

In some cases, you might be eligible for compensation from VicRoads if the damage was caused by poor road conditions. VicRoads has provisions for such claims, but they have specific criteria that must be met. You will need to provide evidence that the damage was due to a road defect and that you reported the issue promptly. If successful, this claim can help cover the costs of wheel repair or replacement.

Is it Cosmetic or Structural Damage?

Assessing the type of damage is crucial before deciding on the next steps. Cosmetic damage usually affects the paint and finish of the wheel and doesn’t impact its structural integrity. This type of damage is generally less severe and can be fixed relatively easily. Structural damage, on the other hand, involves issues like buckling or cracking, which can compromise the wheel’s safety and performance.

Is it Repairable?

Once you’ve identified the type of damage, the next step is to determine if it’s repairable. Consult with a specialised wheel repair shop to get a professional opinion. Typically, minor dents can be fixed with a wheel reroll. However, severe structural damage like significant cracks or bends might not be fixable. Knowing the repairability will help you decide whether to fix the wheel or seek other alternatives.

Can You Purchase a Replacement Wheel?

If the wheel is beyond repair, you might need to purchase a replacement wheel. If your wheels are still in production, you can buy a new wheel to replace the damaged one. If new wheels aren’t available, obsolete wheels and used wheels may be available through speciality retailers.

Can You Swap with the Spare Wheel?

If your car comes with a spare wheel that matches the existing ones, you could use it as a temporary replacement. This solution is practical and allows you to get back on the road immediately. To maintain safety, replace the spare wheel with a basic steel wheel and tyre as soon as you can, ensuring you always have a spare available for emergencies.

Conclusion

Dealing with a damaged wheel involves several considerations, from insurance coverage to repairability and replacement options. Always consult with professionals when in doubt to ensure you make informed decisions about your car's wheels. Canterbury Tyre & Mag Supamart is a wheel specialist with over 30 years experience. They offer a full range of wheel repair and refurbishment, along with a huge selection of new, used and obsolete wheels.