Alloy wheels are the most common upgrades or modifications that many of us consider after buying a new car. In most cases, people go for alloy wheels that look good and fit within their budget. Several brands offer alloy wheels on a budget, but this is also a market where many fake aftermarket alloy wheels are sold. Buying such wheels can be dangerous, as one Bentley owner found out the hard way. The fake aftermarket alloy wheels on their Bentley broke while driving on a highway.
We all know how important alloy wheels are for some cars. They are one of those elements that enhance the overall look of a vehicle. If you opt for high-quality alloy wheels, they not only improve the aesthetics but also the performance of your car. However, if you opt for fake or low-quality wheels, they can do more harm than good.
In this case, we see a yellow Bentley Continental GT sports coupe. In the images, the alloy wheel of the car is shown broken and has come apart. This happened while the car was in motion. The exact location of the accident is unknown. Thankfully, it seems the car was not being driven at high speed, which resulted in only minor bumper damage after the wheel came off.
The owner of the car had installed aftermarket Audi S8-type alloy wheels, which were apparently fake. Original alloy wheels are designed to improve the performance and aesthetics of a car. They are also durable, but that is not the case with replicas. Replicas are often made with cheap materials that lack durability.
That is why the wheel simply broke. In fact, the rim sheared off the hub while the car was still in motion.
Dangers of Buying Cheap Aftermarket Alloy Wheels
Rim Cracks and Structural Integrity
While replica wheels may look similar to the originals, there is a significant difference in quality. Not much research goes into the development of these replica wheels, as they simply copy the original design. They are not very strong and often crack when hitting potholes. Such defects can be dangerous on the road.
Air Leaks and Tire Integrity
Poor-quality alloy wheels often result in cost-cutting measures that lead to defects. These defects can cause issues like air leaks, bending, or even cracks. An underinflated tire affects handling and stability, creating safety risks.
Stranded on the Roadside
The load-bearing capacity of alloy wheels is often rated by the manufacturer. You might not find the same standards in replica or local wheels. This can lead to rim failures, like the one in the case above, leaving the owner stranded on the roadside.
Warranty and Insurance
Using fake aftermarket alloy wheels increases the chances of voiding your vehicle’s warranty. It can also invalidate insurance coverage. Mechanical components like the suspension and wheels are specifically designed by manufacturers for their vehicles. If a fake alloy wheel doesn’t meet these standards, any related claims and warranties may be rejected.
Conclusion
It is always a good idea to avoid cheap alloy wheels and go for branded ones. If you have bought a lower variant of a car, you can get original alloy wheels from the service center as an accessory. Additionally, consult a tire and wheel expert or shop to ensure compatibility. Avoid oversized tires and wheels, as they can affect the driving dynamics of your car.
