Have you ever been misled by a tire dealer into buying fake tires thinking they were alloy wheels? You are not alone. This is a practice that has become very common as technology has evolved. The funny thing is that they are so similar that you don’t know which is which. However, you no longer have to worry. These are the methods you can use to prove that the ones you are buying are actually made of alloy.
Metal wheels have become the best wheels on the market over time. They are the wheels of choice for many motorists due to their extraordinary qualities. You probably have them in your car and cannot replace them with any other type of wheels. Some of the qualities of these wheels that make them stand out in the wheel manufacturing industry include;
Light weight that makes them more efficient.
Force that makes them withstand great pressure and exposure.
Good heat dissipation
Variety of designs and
Great appearance
These are the main characteristics that make up a good rim and alloy wheels have them.
Many tire stores have sprung up claiming to sell alloy wheels, but as technology has improved, so has the knowledge of manufacturers making fake tires. Therefore, a big problem has arisen when motorists have bought alloy wheels but they wear out faster than supposed. You may have been a victim.
The big question every motorist asks is; How can I tell if the wheels on my car are actually metal alloy?
There are several proven ways to determine if your vehicle’s wheels are alloy or steel.
· Acidity test
Metal alloy wheels are made of an alloy of aluminum and another metal. Aluminum is not corrosive unlike magnesium. You have to buy an acid solution for this test and choose a hidden spot at the back of the steering wheel. You don’t have to worry about doing this test because if it is an alloy, no corrosion will occur. However, if corrosion occurs, the hidden location will be invisible. Take some acid and apply it to the chosen spot. If it is an alloy wheel, it will not corrode, but if it is not, it will cause corrosion. This will show that it is in fact not a metal alloy wheel.
· The magnetic check
Another method used is magnetic control. Aluminum is not magnetic. Steel, on the other hand, is very magnetic. Take a magnet and hold it close to the supposed alloy wheel. If the magnet sticks, the wheel is made of steel and not alloy. The reverse will also be true. However, this is not a complete proof that the wheel you have is an aluminum alloy one. This is because magnesium is also not magnetic. That is why it is necessary to carry out the litmus test.
· The visual check
This is where you use your eyes and the knowledge you have to check the wheels. If the rim is completely painted black and does not look like a replacement wheel, it is definitely not alloy. Another way to tell by visual verification is to check if the wheel has hubcaps. If it is there, it is not an alloy either. Most alloy wheels do not use hubcaps.
There may be other ways to differentiate an alloy wheel from a steel wheel, but these stand out the most. However, if you are unsure of your wheels after checking them, it is always recommended that you visit your car manufacturer or consult your mechanic. Mechanics know a lot. They have worked with fake and real wheels for a long time and can tell the difference with just a visual check.
The above indicated; The acid test, magnet check, and visual check are the methods you can apply to determine if your wheels are alloy. The litmus test is the best and most appropriate test of the three.
Make sure you get the right alloy wheels next time and enjoy your rides!
