Hi, just wondering as the title suggests whether surface damage to alloys could affect the structure?

I am looking at some second hand alloys, which do appear 'used', but didn't know whether this was something that I should be concerned about!

Thanks

Technically yes, but practically no. A surface scratch can concentrate stress and become a site for fatigue cracking. However the stress has to be at a high level already which is unlikely in a standard road wheel. It might be an issue with very thin spokes but I would not worry about it. A bigger issue on cheap wheels is voids caused by poor casting, but they are hidden.


Robert G8RPI.

Ah ok, good to know. Thanks for your help!

Also scratching and other surface damage can accelerate corrosion which then tracks to the tyre/rim interface - this is a common cause of leakage with alloy wheels.

Personally I just don't see the point of alloys on a small family hatchback, especially the usual cheap heavy castings you typically find nowadays. Give me a set of steelies anyday.