Alloy Wheels Guide: Types, Benefits, Advantages, & Tips to Buy
Things you will learn in this blog
- What are Alloy Wheels
- Different Types of Alloy Wheels
- Benefits of Using Alloy Wheels
- Advantages of Alloy Wheels over Steel Wheels
- Factors to Consider When Buying Alloy Wheels
- Tips to Maintain Alloy Wheels
- Our Verdict
Alloy wheels are the most modern wheels used on the latest cars globally. While a lot of different models are equipped with alloy wheels nowadays, there are a few budget cars and SUVs that use steel wheels for various reasons. If your car also has steel wheels and you plan to upgrade to alloy wheels, read our complete guide about the alloy wheels below, before upgrading.
Also, before you move ahead with the in-depth knowledge of alloy wheels, make sure to check out the best-used cars in UAE here.
Also Read: Electric Vehicle Charging In Dubai: Everything You Need To Know
What are Alloy Wheels?
Alloy wheels are lightweight wheels that are made by using complex mechanisms and different types of alloy materials like aluminum, magnesium, & other metal alloys. Alloy wheels are traditionally lighter than steel wheels, thus, offering better suspension quality, quick acceleration, better handling, higher fuel economy, and less maintenance. Alloy wheels are also known to reduce the total kerb weight of a vehicle.
Alloy wheels also make a car smarter aesthetically by enhancing its design. Buying alloy wheels is comparatively more expensive than steel wheels as it depends on the type of alloy wheels you choose. There are various types of alloy wheels differentiated by their construction.
Different Types of Alloy Wheels
Depending on the construction and use, there are multiple types of alloy wheels available in the car market in the UAE. As per their manufacturing type and purpose, the different categories of alloy wheels are as follows:
1. One-Piece Alloy Wheels
The most commonly used alloys in the passenger cars are the on-piece. These are carved out entirely from a monoblock, thus, allowing for a clean look with neat designs. These are also affordable to make and sell, as compared to the other types of alloy wheels.
2. Two-Piece Alloy Wheels
Also known as 'modular' alloy wheels, the two-piece design is made by combining two different alloy barrels. The inside loop beholds the spokes while being mounted to the outside barrel with machined bolts. These are stronger as compared to the one-piece alloy wheels, but, also costly in price. The two-piece alloy wheels are popular among SUV modifications due to their design and strength.
3. Three-Piece Alloy Wheels
Adding a third hoop to the two-piece, a three-piece alloy wheel is created. These alloy wheels look fancy and are popular among car modifiers globally. The three-piece alloy wheel design is costly to manufacture and hence the retail price of these alloy wheels is also higher.
4. Forged Alloy Wheels
Forged alloy wheels require a unique forging mechanism to get the desired shape. The forged alloy wheels are generally used for lightweight reduction purposes mainly seen in racecars and motorsports. Due to their extensive manufacturing, the price of forged alloy wheels is quite high.
5. Carbon Fiber Alloy Wheels
The carbon fiber alloy wheels use carbon fiber composite material for construction. These alloy wheels are made specifically for fast-performance cars. Due to their lightweight and rigidity, the rotational speed is higher for carbon fiber alloy wheels, hence, allowing quick acceleration and higher top speed. However, these are very costly and are usually seen on high-end sportscars.
6. Flow Form Alloy Wheels
These alloy wheels use a special type of rolling process that suppresses the aluminum with a roller. Hence, the bulges and curves on these alloy wheels are smoother and stronger than the regular alloy wheels. This process leads to a high-quality finish, but, increases the cost.
7. Spun Alloy Wheels
The spun alloy wheels are made by a special spinning lathe tool where the one-piece is carved out by an artist. Such alloy wheels are usually made for limited-edition cars or prototypes and are usually impractical to be made for mass level. Hence, the price of these custom alloy wheels is usually high.
8. Monoblock Alloy Wheels
Monoblock alloy wheels are made from a single-piece machining process. These alloy wheels do not involve any joints or bolts. The monoblock alloy wheels can have hoops but everything is made from a single piece of alloy material.
9. Multi-Piece Alloy Wheels
As the name suggests, these alloy wheels use multiple blocks or patterns jolted together to create a single rim. Due to the involvement of multiple designs and elements, these are highly customizable rims and are mainly used on heavy-duty vehicles.
10. Beadlock Alloy Wheels
Beadlock alloy wheels use an external beading ring with bolt locks on the sidewall. These alloy wheels are made for off-road purposes and these can operate even with very low tyre pressure. Additionally, their design allows for better off-road grip and strength. Beadlock alloy wheels are expensive to replace and the tyre changing process is also made difficult due to their sidewall design.
Benefits of Using Alloy Wheels
Alloy wheels are seen on every modern car as a standard OEM part. The reason is simple, these are better in every aspect than the steel wheels. Below are some of their main benefits:
1. Better Handling and Ride Quality
Due to their lightweight, the alloy wheels offer better ride quality and handling. The lightweight means that the suspension is able to absorb more undulations perfectly. Hence, the passenger comfort is enhanced automatically. Moreover, due to their ability to hold the tyre rubber with a stronger grip on the sidewalls, the alloy wheels offer a direct steering response.
2. Increased Mileage
As per the Environment Protection Agency, the lightweight alloy wheels are able to save up to 10% more fuel than regular steel wheels. Also, the alloy wheels have reduced the inertia of rotation by up to 2%. Therefore, the mileage of the vehicle is increased and users can save more fuel compared to using the steel wheels.
3. Faster Acceleration
Due to the low rolling resistance and lightweight, the alloy wheels offer faster acceleration. The alloy wheels can rotate quickly than the steel wheels, therefore, providing better rolling acceleration as well.
4. Improved Braking
The lightweight of alloy wheels means the overall kerb weight of the vehicle becomes lesser. Hence, the stopping distance is reduced due to the less overall momentum. Additionally, even after prolonged use, the alloy wheels generate considerably less heat than the steel wheels.
5. High Durability
Alloy material is an anti-corrosive construct and enables better durability in the long run. The alloy wheels are less prone to climate change and rust, hence, not requiring replacement or repairs even after years of use.
Also Read: Top 7-Seater Cars In UAE To Buy In 2024
Advantages of Alloy Wheels Over Steel Wheels
While upgrading to the alloy wheels might feel like a costly choice, it has its own benefits. If you are upgrading from steel wheels, below are the major benefits that you will enjoy with the purchase of alloy wheels for your car:
1. Reduced Weight
Steel wheels are traditionally heavier. While it is possible to construct lightweight steel wheels, it is not feasible cost-benefit ratio-wise to the manufacturers. Also, the lightweight steel wheels will be prone to bending and less utility-friendly. The alloy wheels being lightweight, have an automatic advantage over the steel wheels. These offer better handling, and ride quality, and require less maintenance.
2. Less Maintenance
Steel wheels are prone to bending. This quality allows the steel wheels to be more utility-friendly for rural and rough roads. However, most of the roads in the UAE are well-paved and don't require heavier wheels. The alloy wheels offer better strength as they do not bend. The alloy wheels are brittle in nature and hence, a harsh crash will create a crack in them, rather than bending them.
3. Less Heating
If you are driving for long hours in the extreme heat, the steel wheels tend to get very hot. It is due to the rotational frequency of the tyre as well as the steel used. However, this is not the case with the alloy wheels. They remain very cool even after a long day of use in heat. Less heat also means that the other components associated with the wheel, like the brake rotors, axle parts, etc., also remain cooler.
4. Weather-Resistant
Alloy wheels are not affected by changing weather due to their construction. Therefore, rusting and other factors that are associated with the weather, do not affect them. The steel wheels, however, require care and maintenance as they accumulate rust easily. The weather-proof nature of alloy wheels is a strong reason behind customers choosing to upgrade.
5. More Options and Better Aesthetics
Alloy wheels are offered in various styles and designs. Hence, a customer has numerous options to choose their favourite colour, design, and brand while upgrading to alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the design of the vehicle is also enhanced with a set of good alloy wheels. Steel wheels fail to do both things cumulatively.
Also Read: 5 Affordable Cars On Rent in Dubai
Factors to Consider While Buying Alloy Wheels
When opting for the alloy wheel upgrade for your car, make sure to create clarity of a few important factors that are mentioned below:
1. Correct Size
Each car can accommodate a wheel size of at least one inch or two inches more than the OEM size, without any alterations to the parts. However, it is necessary to stick to the OEM size and recommendations. If you are upsizing, do not go beyond a one-inch upgrade than your OEM size. Also, make sure to install the correct offset/backspacing and bolt pattern as well. By installing the correct alloy wheel and tyre size, you will ensure that your car's handling and performance are not altered anyhow.
2. Performance
While buying alloy wheels for your car, ensure the purpose and consider the driving conditions. Each car has its own limitations and if you want better performance, the basic alloy wheels will not satisfy you. For higher performance, go for the forged alloy wheels. Similarly, if your aim is to make modifications to transform your car for racing purposes, go for carbon fiber alloy wheels and monoblock alloy wheels as they are lightweight and more rigid.
3. Driving Conditions
It is important to note where your car will be most used. If your driving pattern involves mostly urban or city driving, then the basic or low-cost alloy wheels will work fine. However, if you drive on bad roads or off-roads often, then opt for beadlock alloy wheels. Make sure to buy high-strength alloy wheels for highways, lightweight alloys for city use, and durable and strong alloys for off-road use.
4. Weather Conditions
Choosing the right set of alloy wheels also depends on the type of weather conditions. If you live near to coastal region or near sand dunes where the temperature is usually high, then opt for power-coated alloy wheels. Durable alloy wheels suit extreme weather conditions driving.
5. Budget
The growing competition has led to a variety of alloy wheel makers offering their versatile products. While you can afford a 20-inch alloy wheels upgrade on your 17-inch OEM size, we suggest not going beyond a specific budget. Better quality demands a higher price but it is equally necessary to understand the limitations of your vehicle and also your budget.
Also Read: Best Hatchback Cars in UAE to Buy in 2024
Tips to Maintain Alloy Wheels
If you have already upgraded to the alloy wheels or you are soon going to, below are a few quick tips to maintain them so that your car and alloy wheels look forever clean and young.
1. Deep Cleaning
It is necessary to deep clean the alloy wheels regularly. This method not only ensures a clean look but you will keep the debris and other unwanted elements like the road salt, etc., away from your wheels. As wheels are attached to other important parts like brakes and axles, deep cleaning will ensure that your car remains in top-notch condition mechanically. Also, you will be able to notice cracks or scratches closely and further repair the wheels accordingly.
2. Polishing and Waxing
Every time you deep clean your alloy wheels, make sure to either polish or wax them. This method will add an extra layer of lubricant protection to your wheels. Thus, the grace and outlook of the alloy wheels will remain consistent even after prolonged use. Moreover, waxing avoids unwanted debris sticking to the wheels, thus, acting as a protective agent.
3. Inspect and Repair Damage
If your car's alloy wheels have any sort of damage like cracks or deep scratches, you need to inspect and repair them. A light crack can extend and lead to the breaking of the alloy wheel. Hence, a small negligence of not inspecting and repairing can lead to worse results on the road.
Our Verdict
Alloy wheels are the most modern wheels that are suited for every use. With a versatile market full of options, buyers can choose any type of alloy wheels as per their requirements and design preferences. Alloy wheels not only offer strength but also help in saving money by providing better mileage. Also, the maintenance-free construction of alloy wheels is a boon for users. Tell us in the comments below what you think about the alloy wheels and why will you choose these for your car.
Things you will learn in this blog
- What are Alloy Wheels
- Different Types of Alloy Wheels
- Benefits of Using Alloy Wheels
- Advantages of Alloy Wheels over Steel Wheels
- Factors to Consider When Buying Alloy Wheels
- Tips to Maintain Alloy Wheels
- Our Verdict
Alloy wheels are the most modern wheels used on the latest cars globally. While a lot of different models are equipped with alloy wheels nowadays, there are a few budget cars and SUVs that use steel wheels for various reasons. If your car also has steel wheels and you plan to upgrade to alloy wheels, read our complete guide about the alloy wheels below, before upgrading.
Also, before you move ahead with the in-depth knowledge of alloy wheels, make sure to check out the best-used cars in UAE here.
Also Read: Electric Vehicle Charging In Dubai: Everything You Need To Know
What are Alloy Wheels?
Alloy wheels are lightweight wheels that are made by using complex mechanisms and different types of alloy materials like aluminum, magnesium, & other metal alloys. Alloy wheels are traditionally lighter than steel wheels, thus, offering better suspension quality, quick acceleration, better handling, higher fuel economy, and less maintenance. Alloy wheels are also known to reduce the total kerb weight of a vehicle.
Alloy wheels also make a car smarter aesthetically by enhancing its design. Buying alloy wheels is comparatively more expensive than steel wheels as it depends on the type of alloy wheels you choose. There are various types of alloy wheels differentiated by their construction.
Different Types of Alloy Wheels
Depending on the construction and use, there are multiple types of alloy wheels available in the car market in the UAE. As per their manufacturing type and purpose, the different categories of alloy wheels are as follows:
1. One-Piece Alloy Wheels
The most commonly used alloys in the passenger cars are the on-piece. These are carved out entirely from a monoblock, thus, allowing for a clean look with neat designs. These are also affordable to make and sell, as compared to the other types of alloy wheels.
2. Two-Piece Alloy Wheels
Also known as 'modular' alloy wheels, the two-piece design is made by combining two different alloy barrels. The inside loop beholds the spokes while being mounted to the outside barrel with machined bolts. These are stronger as compared to the one-piece alloy wheels, but, also costly in price. The two-piece alloy wheels are popular among SUV modifications due to their design and strength.
3. Three-Piece Alloy Wheels
Adding a third hoop to the two-piece, a three-piece alloy wheel is created. These alloy wheels look fancy and are popular among car modifiers globally. The three-piece alloy wheel design is costly to manufacture and hence the retail price of these alloy wheels is also higher.
4. Forged Alloy Wheels
Forged alloy wheels require a unique forging mechanism to get the desired shape. The forged alloy wheels are generally used for lightweight reduction purposes mainly seen in racecars and motorsports. Due to their extensive manufacturing, the price of forged alloy wheels is quite high.
5. Carbon Fiber Alloy Wheels
The carbon fiber alloy wheels use carbon fiber composite material for construction. These alloy wheels are made specifically for fast-performance cars. Due to their lightweight and rigidity, the rotational speed is higher for carbon fiber alloy wheels, hence, allowing quick acceleration and higher top speed. However, these are very costly and are usually seen on high-end sportscars.
6. Flow Form Alloy Wheels
These alloy wheels use a special type of rolling process that suppresses the aluminum with a roller. Hence, the bulges and curves on these alloy wheels are smoother and stronger than the regular alloy wheels. This process leads to a high-quality finish, but, increases the cost.
7. Spun Alloy Wheels
The spun alloy wheels are made by a special spinning lathe tool where the one-piece is carved out by an artist. Such alloy wheels are usually made for limited-edition cars or prototypes and are usually impractical to be made for mass level. Hence, the price of these custom alloy wheels is usually high.
8. Monoblock Alloy Wheels
Monoblock alloy wheels are made from a single-piece machining process. These alloy wheels do not involve any joints or bolts. The monoblock alloy wheels can have hoops but everything is made from a single piece of alloy material.
9. Multi-Piece Alloy Wheels
As the name suggests, these alloy wheels use multiple blocks or patterns jolted together to create a single rim. Due to the involvement of multiple designs and elements, these are highly customizable rims and are mainly used on heavy-duty vehicles.
10. Beadlock Alloy Wheels
Beadlock alloy wheels use an external beading ring with bolt locks on the sidewall. These alloy wheels are made for off-road purposes and these can operate even with very low tyre pressure. Additionally, their design allows for better off-road grip and strength. Beadlock alloy wheels are expensive to replace and the tyre changing process is also made difficult due to their sidewall design.
Benefits of Using Alloy Wheels
Alloy wheels are seen on every modern car as a standard OEM part. The reason is simple, these are better in every aspect than the steel wheels. Below are some of their main benefits:
1. Better Handling and Ride Quality
Due to their lightweight, the alloy wheels offer better ride quality and handling. The lightweight means that the suspension is able to absorb more undulations perfectly. Hence, the passenger comfort is enhanced automatically. Moreover, due to their ability to hold the tyre rubber with a stronger grip on the sidewalls, the alloy wheels offer a direct steering response.
2. Increased Mileage
As per the Environment Protection Agency, the lightweight alloy wheels are able to save up to 10% more fuel than regular steel wheels. Also, the alloy wheels have reduced the inertia of rotation by up to 2%. Therefore, the mileage of the vehicle is increased and users can save more fuel compared to using the steel wheels.
3. Faster Acceleration
Due to the low rolling resistance and lightweight, the alloy wheels offer faster acceleration. The alloy wheels can rotate quickly than the steel wheels, therefore, providing better rolling acceleration as well.
4. Improved Braking
The lightweight of alloy wheels means the overall kerb weight of the vehicle becomes lesser. Hence, the stopping distance is reduced due to the less overall momentum. Additionally, even after prolonged use, the alloy wheels generate considerably less heat than the steel wheels.
5. High Durability
Alloy material is an anti-corrosive construct and enables better durability in the long run. The alloy wheels are less prone to climate change and rust, hence, not requiring replacement or repairs even after years of use.
Also Read: Top 7-Seater Cars In UAE To Buy In 2024
Advantages of Alloy Wheels Over Steel Wheels
While upgrading to the alloy wheels might feel like a costly choice, it has its own benefits. If you are upgrading from steel wheels, below are the major benefits that you will enjoy with the purchase of alloy wheels for your car:
1. Reduced Weight
Steel wheels are traditionally heavier. While it is possible to construct lightweight steel wheels, it is not feasible cost-benefit ratio-wise to the manufacturers. Also, the lightweight steel wheels will be prone to bending and less utility-friendly. The alloy wheels being lightweight, have an automatic advantage over the steel wheels. These offer better handling, and ride quality, and require less maintenance.
2. Less Maintenance
Steel wheels are prone to bending. This quality allows the steel wheels to be more utility-friendly for rural and rough roads. However, most of the roads in the UAE are well-paved and don't require heavier wheels. The alloy wheels offer better strength as they do not bend. The alloy wheels are brittle in nature and hence, a harsh crash will create a crack in them, rather than bending them.
3. Less Heating
If you are driving for long hours in the extreme heat, the steel wheels tend to get very hot. It is due to the rotational frequency of the tyre as well as the steel used. However, this is not the case with the alloy wheels. They remain very cool even after a long day of use in heat. Less heat also means that the other components associated with the wheel, like the brake rotors, axle parts, etc., also remain cooler.
4. Weather-Resistant
Alloy wheels are not affected by changing weather due to their construction. Therefore, rusting and other factors that are associated with the weather, do not affect them. The steel wheels, however, require care and maintenance as they accumulate rust easily. The weather-proof nature of alloy wheels is a strong reason behind customers choosing to upgrade.
5. More Options and Better Aesthetics
Alloy wheels are offered in various styles and designs. Hence, a customer has numerous options to choose their favourite colour, design, and brand while upgrading to alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the design of the vehicle is also enhanced with a set of good alloy wheels. Steel wheels fail to do both things cumulatively.
Also Read: 5 Affordable Cars On Rent in Dubai
Factors to Consider While Buying Alloy Wheels
When opting for the alloy wheel upgrade for your car, make sure to create clarity of a few important factors that are mentioned below:
1. Correct Size
Each car can accommodate a wheel size of at least one inch or two inches more than the OEM size, without any alterations to the parts. However, it is necessary to stick to the OEM size and recommendations. If you are upsizing, do not go beyond a one-inch upgrade than your OEM size. Also, make sure to install the correct offset/backspacing and bolt pattern as well. By installing the correct alloy wheel and tyre size, you will ensure that your car's handling and performance are not altered anyhow.
2. Performance
While buying alloy wheels for your car, ensure the purpose and consider the driving conditions. Each car has its own limitations and if you want better performance, the basic alloy wheels will not satisfy you. For higher performance, go for the forged alloy wheels. Similarly, if your aim is to make modifications to transform your car for racing purposes, go for carbon fiber alloy wheels and monoblock alloy wheels as they are lightweight and more rigid.
3. Driving Conditions
It is important to note where your car will be most used. If your driving pattern involves mostly urban or city driving, then the basic or low-cost alloy wheels will work fine. However, if you drive on bad roads or off-roads often, then opt for beadlock alloy wheels. Make sure to buy high-strength alloy wheels for highways, lightweight alloys for city use, and durable and strong alloys for off-road use.
4. Weather Conditions
Choosing the right set of alloy wheels also depends on the type of weather conditions. If you live near to coastal region or near sand dunes where the temperature is usually high, then opt for power-coated alloy wheels. Durable alloy wheels suit extreme weather conditions driving.
5. Budget
The growing competition has led to a variety of alloy wheel makers offering their versatile products. While you can afford a 20-inch alloy wheels upgrade on your 17-inch OEM size, we suggest not going beyond a specific budget. Better quality demands a higher price but it is equally necessary to understand the limitations of your vehicle and also your budget.
Also Read: Best Hatchback Cars in UAE to Buy in 2024
Tips to Maintain Alloy Wheels
If you have already upgraded to the alloy wheels or you are soon going to, below are a few quick tips to maintain them so that your car and alloy wheels look forever clean and young.
1. Deep Cleaning
It is necessary to deep clean the alloy wheels regularly. This method not only ensures a clean look but you will keep the debris and other unwanted elements like the road salt, etc., away from your wheels. As wheels are attached to other important parts like brakes and axles, deep cleaning will ensure that your car remains in top-notch condition mechanically. Also, you will be able to notice cracks or scratches closely and further repair the wheels accordingly.
2. Polishing and Waxing
Every time you deep clean your alloy wheels, make sure to either polish or wax them. This method will add an extra layer of lubricant protection to your wheels. Thus, the grace and outlook of the alloy wheels will remain consistent even after prolonged use. Moreover, waxing avoids unwanted debris sticking to the wheels, thus, acting as a protective agent.
3. Inspect and Repair Damage
If your car's alloy wheels have any sort of damage like cracks or deep scratches, you need to inspect and repair them. A light crack can extend and lead to the breaking of the alloy wheel. Hence, a small negligence of not inspecting and repairing can lead to worse results on the road.
Our Verdict
Alloy wheels are the most modern wheels that are suited for every use. With a versatile market full of options, buyers can choose any type of alloy wheels as per their requirements and design preferences. Alloy wheels not only offer strength but also help in saving money by providing better mileage. Also, the maintenance-free construction of alloy wheels is a boon for users. Tell us in the comments below what you think about the alloy wheels and why will you choose these for your car.
