If you are not familiar with wheel reconditioning, it is a process of using various tools and methods to try to repair a damaged wheel, instead of replacing it entirely.   Some methods include welding, re-plating, or reshaping the wheel.  

Nearly every car manufacturer releases Position Statements explaining what methods of auto body repair they do or do not recommend.   While some shops disregard these statements, we take a fine-tooth comb to the information they provide so that we can provide the best possible repair for every vehicle that comes through our doors.

When it comes to wheel reconditioning, Hyundai has issued a Position Statement explaining why they do not accept wheel reconditioning in any vehicle repairs.   Here’s what they say:

“Hyundai Motor America does not approve the use of reconditioned steel or aluminum wheels on any Hyundai vehicle. Reconditioned wheels may not meet the same standards as newly manufactured wheels. Reconditioned wheels may contribute to poor performance and compromise safety.”

The problem with reconditioning methods, such as heating, welding, and reshaping, is that these techniques could compromise the structural integrity of your wheels.   If a wheel is damaged enough to warrant reconditioning, then it should just be replaced outright.        

Being the only parts of the car to actually make contact with the road, your wheels are essential to your safety and are worth investing the proper time and energy into.   It is simply not worth the risk to your life to take chances with the condition of your vehicle’s wheels.

Even though wheel reconditioning is not approved of by Hyundai, certain cosmetic wheel repairs are permitted:

“Hyundai only recognizes steel or aluminum wheel repair that is limited to surface treatment that restores cosmetic appearance of the finish coating.”

Basically, only superficial cosmetic adjustments are allowed, since they won’t jeopardize the integrity of the wheel structure.   If the wheel is damaged beyond minor cosmetic issues, then it should be replaced entirely.

It’s disappointing, but some shops throw caution out the window and continue to practice wheel reconditioning, despite Hyundai’s adamant recommendation to avoid this practice at all costs.   They can get away with this because no body shop is actually forced to adhere to a manufacturer’s Position Statement.  

At our shop, we strongly believe that there’s no reason to take a chance with your Hyundai’s repair by going against the advice of the manufacturer.   Reconditioned wheels can lead to very dangerous problems down the road.   We will always replace your Hyundai’s wheels entirely if they’ve sustained significant damage or we will follow proper refinishing methods if the damage is cosmetic.  

You won’t have to worry about driving on unstable wheels when you bring your vehicle to us.   We always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in order to deliver the safest possible repair to our customers.  

The post Hyundai Does Not Approve of Wheel Reconditioning—Here’s Why That’s Important for Your Repair appeared first on Ken Rocha Collision.