Alloy Wheel Refurbishment in Reading, Berkshire

Your alloy wheels take a beating. Kerbs, potholes, road salt and brake dust all take their toll, leaving your wheels looking tired and worn. At Prestige Protect in Reading, we offer professional alloy wheel refurbishment that restores your wheels to showroom condition or better. With over 10 years of experience, we work on everything from standard factory alloys to high-end forged wheels on luxury and performance vehicles.

Types of Wheel Damage We Repair

Alloy wheels are exposed to constant abuse on UK roads. We repair all common types of damage, including:

• Kerb damage - The most common form of alloy damage. Clipping a kerb during parking or tight manoeuvres chips and gouges the outer rim, leaving visible marks that detract from your vehicle's appearance.
• Scuffs and scratches - Surface-level marks from general road use, car parks and minor contact. While less severe than deep kerb damage, scuffs accumulate over time and make wheels look neglected.
• Corrosion - Road salt, brake dust and moisture work their way beneath the lacquer, causing white spots and bubbling. Left untreated, corrosion spreads and weakens the wheel's protective finish.
• Peeling lacquer - The clear lacquer coat that protects your wheels can peel, flake or lift, particularly on older wheels or those exposed to harsh conditions. This exposes the paint or bare alloy beneath to further damage.
• Faded or discoloured finish - UV exposure, chemical brake cleaners and general ageing can cause wheel finishes to dull, yellow or become patchy over time.

Our Refurbishment Process

We follow a thorough, multi-stage process to ensure every wheel leaves our workshop in outstanding condition:

1. Inspection - Each wheel is carefully examined for damage, cracks, corrosion and structural issues. We check for any safety concerns before proceeding with cosmetic work.
2. Stripping - The existing finish is removed to bare alloy. This includes stripping old paint, lacquer and any corrosion to create a clean foundation for the new finish.
3. Repair - Kerb damage, chips and gouges are filled and shaped to restore the original wheel profile. We use specialist alloy fillers and carefully reshape the rim to ensure a smooth, even edge.
4. Finishing - The wheel is then refinished to your chosen specification. This may involve powder coating for maximum durability, wet painting for a wider range of colour options, or diamond cutting for a precision-machined face. Each method has its own advantages, and we will advise on the best option for your wheels.
5. Lacquer - A high-quality clear lacquer is applied to seal and protect the new finish. This provides UV resistance, chemical protection and a lasting shine.
6. Balancing - Once refurbished, each wheel is professionally balanced before being refitted to your vehicle. This ensures smooth driving and prevents uneven tyre wear.

Custom Finishes

Refurbishment is not just about repairing damage. It is also an opportunity to change the look of your wheels entirely. We offer a full range of custom finish options:

• Colour change - Transform your wheels with a completely new colour. From classic silver and gunmetal grey to bold black, bronze or any custom shade, we can match any vision you have in mind.
• Diamond cut - A precision-machined finish that removes a fine layer of alloy to reveal a bright, polished face with sharp detailing. The machined surface is then lacquered for protection. This is the factory finish on many premium vehicles.
• Satin finish - A smooth, low-sheen finish that sits between matte and gloss. Satin finishes are popular on modern luxury and performance vehicles, offering a sophisticated, understated look.
• Gloss finish - A deep, mirror-like shine that makes your wheels a standout feature. Gloss finishes are easy to clean and maintain.
• Matte finish - A flat, non-reflective finish that gives wheels a contemporary, aggressive look. Matte finishes work particularly well on performance and sports vehicles.

Not sure which finish to choose? Bring your vehicle to our workshop in Reading and we will talk you through the options, show you samples and help you find the perfect look for your car.