Wheels play an important part of any vehicle. Hence it becomes very important to choose the wheel of your vehicle wisely. Steel and alloy wheels are two of the most popular wheel materials in modern automobiles. Each has advantages and disadvantages, ranging from dependability to maintenance to aesthetics. But, in the end, it all boils down to which wheel type is best for your vehicle. So we have come up with some of the amazing information about both the wheels which can help you to select one which will suit you the best.
What Are Alloy Wheels?
Let’s get technical for a moment. An alloy is made up of several metals that have been mixed together to combine their main characteristics (rigidity, malleability, hardness). In this context, an alloy wheel is one that is made from an aluminium or magnesium alloy. Alloy wheels occupy a unique position in today’s automobiles, and they can make or break a sale. Alloy wheels are more expensive than steel wheels, but they have significant advantages. (Of course, the same can be said about steel wheels!) Regardless, alloy wheels improve a car’s overall appearance and increase its road presence in the eyes of the average person. But there’s more to alloy wheels – or simply alloys – than meets the eye.
Features of Alloy Wheels-
- Aesthetics- The appearance of the alloy wheel is its most prominent benefit. Alloy wheels are a luxury feature found in many Indian cars, mostly in higher-end models. The basic makeup is the same, whether it’s marketed as “Diamond Cut” or “Laser Edged.”
- Weight- Alloy wheels are significantly lighter in weight, which helps with weight reduction, fuel economy, braking, and acceleration. This is due to the complex manufacturing process of alloy wheels. Alloy wheels also help to extend the life of tyres because they dissipate heat more quickly than steel wheels.
- Performance- Alloy wheels transmit less weight to the coil spring due to their lightweight construction, resulting in improved grip and traction. There is also a noticeable difference in steering and cornering abilities.
- Rust Proof- Another vote of confidence. Alloys are corrosion resistant! This feature is especially useful for people who live near the coast, where salt and surface corrosion are common.
Drawbacks of Alloy Wheels
- Costing- Purchase, repair, and manufacturing costs are all prohibitively high. Because of the lengthy manufacturing process, alloy wheels are quite costly. A steel wheel will set you back 50% more than an alloy wheel. As a result, carmakers do not include alloy wheels in their low-cost models (duh!).
- Rigidity- Unfortunately, alloy wheels do not have the same strength as steel wheels. Cracks, dents, and curb rashes are common. As a result, even minor damage to the wheels can detract from the car’s overall appearance.
- Repairability- For alloy wheels, that’s a difficult one. It takes time and money to repair an alloy wheel. Alloy wheels, unlike steel wheels, must be reshaped using complicated procedures.
Also Read, Summer Car Tips: Get your Car ready to Beat the Heat
What are Steel Wheels?
The name speaks for itself. Steel wheels are made of… steel (obviously strikes! ), specifically “stamped steel.” These steel wheels have a long history and have been battle-tested for toughness and longevity. As a result, these steel wheels can be found in city cars, hardcore SUVs, and even HMVs. Steel wheels are produced as a low-cost alternative to alloy wheels.
Features of Steel Wheels
- Costing- Steel wheels are made by stamping them into the desired shape. Steel wheels are much less expensive to purchase, costing between 70% and 80% less than alloy wheels.
- Durability- Take note of this! Alloy wheels are weaker than steel wheels. Steel wheels are fitted to tough, rugged SUVs for this reason. Many economy car manufacturers also use them as their first choice.
- Repairability- Steel wheels are easier to repair than alloy wheels because they are more malleable. A steel wheel can be repaired by simply hammering the bent portion back into shape.
Drawbacks of Steel Wheels
- Weight- Steel wheels, despite this, are heavy, adding to the car’s unsprung weight. The suspension takes a beating as a result of the extra weight of steel wheels. However, being overweight isn’t always a negative experience. Steel wheels provide better traction and manoeuvrability, so this is an advantage for certain vehicles.
- Corrosion- Steel wheels aren’t fond of salty and/or humid conditions. Steel wheels can, to some extent, resist corrosion and rust thanks to modern paint technology such as powder coating.
- Looks- This is, after all, a personal opinion. Steel wheels, on the other hand, aren’t luxury carmakers’ first choice. The plain Jane, uninteresting appearance does not help a vehicle stand out on the street. Steel wheels, however, do look absolutely radical in some tasteful vehicles.
