A cracked alloy wheel is one of the few types of wheel damage where the answer genuinely depends on the specifics — but in most cases, yes, it can be safely repaired.
What kinds of cracks are repairable?
Radial cracks running from a spoke to the rim, hairline cracks from impact, and rim lip cracks are commonly repairable with TIG welding. Cracks through the spoke face itself, or right next to bolt holes, need careful individual assessment — not every crack should be welded.
How do you know if a wheel is cracked (vs. just damaged)?
A persistent slow puncture on one corner, with no obvious cause, is a classic sign — along with a visible fine line in the alloy face, often on the inner rim where it's harder to spot. If in doubt, send us a photo.
Is a welded wheel actually safe?
When repaired correctly by a specialist and within appropriate parameters, yes. The process involves a safety assessment of the crack's location and the wheel's remaining thickness, precise TIG welding, grinding back to the original profile, and — critically — pressure testing every repair before it's cosmetically finished. A wheel that doesn't pass isn't returned.
Cost and turnaround
Crack repair is priced on application depending on severity and wheel size, with most jobs completed in 24–48 hours. It's typically far cheaper than replacement, and it's often the only way to keep a rare or discontinued wheel on the road.
Full details on our crack & weld repair page.