Alloy wheel repair in Devon: Your questions answered.

Wheeltec is among the most trusted wheel repair services in Devon. Our team of committed car enthusiasts work tirelessly to keep Plymouth’s wheels in mint condition.

Plymouth & Devon car enthusiasts - here is what you need to know. 

Diamond cutting alloy wheel repair might not sound like the type of service a committed petrolhead wants to think about. However, when the sickening crunch of alloy against granite interrupts your day, you are going to want the best alloy wheel repair in Devon. Living in Plymouth or South Devon means an abundance of high kerbs. Many were hewn from the bedrock centuries ago and, as many an unfortunate car enthusiast will tell you, Devonian kerbs can make mincemeat of expensive wheels. 

Kerbs are not the only issue. Devon’s roads have never been in a worse state. Potholes have become the enemy of the low-profile wheel. With many of the potholes slap bang on the line you need to take, it is all too easy to take out a wheel. Alloy wheels can buckle, split, or sustain serious cosmetic damage in seconds. Of course, it is not just accidental damage that can ruin a wheel. Over time, lacquers can be damaged, leading to discolouration, pitting, and corrosion. Classic alloys, such as the Capri Pepperpot, are difficult to find, and restoration may be your only route. 

There are two types of car owners. First, those who see a vehicle as a means of getting from A to B. The second type of owner is emotionally attached to their vehicle. If those opening paragraphs have sent you into a cold sweat, then it is likely that you are in the second camp. Welcome. We at Wheeltec are petrolheads, too. When it comes to the crunch, you can trust us with your pride and joy.

FAQ about alloy wheel repair in Devon. 

If you have damaged one or more wheels, there are probably a few questions you want to ask. We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions below. Have a browse through. If you cannot see the answer to your question, or are ready to book a vehicle in for assessment/repair, then you can email us at: info@wheeltecalloywheelrepair.co.uk. For the most accurate quote and premium booking service, why not pop along to our workshop in Plympton, Plymouth, where one of our team will be more than happy to help.  

What is diamond cut wheel repair?

Put simply, we repair alloy wheels with a diamond-tipped cutting tool. The wheel is “turned” on a lathe, and a sliver of surface material is removed. Once the wheel is flush, we use a variety of finishing techniques to restore your wheel to concours condition. 

How many times can you repair a wheel? 

As a rule of thumb, most wheels can be diamond cut a few times. Three seems to be the upper limit, although heavily damaged wheels might only be able to sustain one repair. In instances where a wheel is not able to be Diamond-cut, you will need to consider powder coating. Although a little more expensive, powder coating can be carried out multiple times, and the finish is generally considered to be of the highest quality.

How much does diamond cutting cost? 

Diamond cut alloy wheel repair starts at £85 per wheel, depending on the type of wheel and the amount of damage sustained.

What is the difference between diamond cutting and powder coating?

Diamond cutting removes a thin layer of the wheel surface and removes the damaged layer. The resulting surface is then polished and lacquered to restore the condition of the wheel. Powder-coating binds a new layer of material to the wheel. This process is far more suited to heavily damaged wheels, or wheels that have reached their cutting limit. Powder coating starts at around £100 per wheel.   

Why is alloy wheel repair so popular? 

With wheels costing anywhere from £250 each, and over a £1000 each, depending on the brand and size, hitting a kerb with one or more wheels can be an expensive mistake. Fear not. Most wheel scrapes, gouges, dents and buckles can be fixed relatively easily. Get in touch to find out more.  You can submit your photos via email, or fill out our contact form here.

Do you offer trade services? 

We do offer trade services, including collection and delivery in some cases. Our wheel repair services are used by many of Devon and Cornwall’s well-known motor traders, including City & Western, Mercedes and Vospers Motor House. We are happy to work with traders of all sizes. If you would like to speak with our commercial team, email us at info@wheeltecalloywheelrepair.co.uk.

Who are you people? 

Rob and Nichola (Nikki) Walklin are petrolheads, too. Rob started out in the motor trade many years ago. He has run a successful Japanese import business and sold motorcycles for GT Motorcycles in Plymouth. While selling cars, he spotted a gap for a reliable wheel repair service. 

Wheeltec was formed in 2018 and started out in Lister Close, with one bay, servicing eight vehicles a day. The service proved so popular that it was not long before Wheeltec was taking up much of the small car park that serviced the surrounding businesses. Another move, and three new technicians followed.

From those humble beginnings, Wheeltec has flourished. We now employ 6 technicians, including 1 apprentice. You are welcome to visit our modern, hi-tech workshops at our latest premises in Plympton. There, you will meet a committed and professional team, all of whom share your passion for cars and motorcycles. 

We look forward to meeting you.

Rob and Nikki Walklin.