Wheels and Tyres
What are Alloy Wheels / Steel Wheels?
The metal discs that the tyres are bolted to.
Simplified animation — not to scale.
In plain English
Wheels are the structural metal discs that the tyre sits on and the hub bolts to. Steel wheels are heavy and tough; alloy wheels are lighter, look smarter and help with handling and fuel economy.
A simple analogy
"Like the rim of a bicycle wheel — if you bend it, nothing else on the wheel can run true."
How it works
The wheel locates the tyre bead against an air-tight rim, then bolts to the hub so engine and braking forces can pass through. Alloys are cast or forged from aluminium alloy; steel wheels are pressed from sheet steel and usually hidden behind a plastic trim.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Steering wobble or vibration (a buckled or out-of-balance wheel)
- ⚠Slow puncture from a kerbed or cracked rim
- ⚠Visible kerb damage, scrapes or curbing on the lip
- ⚠Cracks radiating from the bolt holes or spokes
- ⚠Corrosion under the lacquer causing the tyre to leak at the bead
Rough UK cost
£60 – £150 to refurbish, £100+ to replace
Parts: £80 – £400 per wheel (alloys); £40 – £90 (steel)
Labour: £50 – £120 refurbishment per wheel
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by car, region, and parts brand.
Heads up: Carautonomy is for general guidance only. If your car is showing warning lights or behaving oddly, get it looked at by a qualified mechanic.