Used alloy wheels can be a good way to save money, including wheels from brands such as Eagle. A used wheel can also hide problems that are not obvious at a glance. This guide explains how to inspect a used alloy wheel, what to check on the specification, and when to walk away.
Confirm the specification
Before looking at any wheel, confirm the size you need: diameter, width, bolt pattern, centre bore, offset, and load rating. Measure the wheel yourself if the seller cannot confirm the details. A used wheel that does not match the specification is not a bargain.
Inspect the wheel in person
Look for cracks, especially around the spokes, the hub area, and the bolt holes. Check the rim for bends or flat spots, and look at the inner barrel as well as the face. Check the valve seats for damage, and look for heavy corrosion, which can weaken the metal. Run a hand around the lip of the rim to feel for dents or deformation.
Check for repairs
Ask whether the wheel has been repaired, straightened, or refinished. Repairs can be sound, but poor repair work can hide cracks or weaken the structure. A wheel that has been straightened after a serious impact should be checked by a qualified refurbisher before fitting.
Look at the wheel on the car
If possible, fit a test wheel or check the wheel on the vehicle before paying. Check for wobble when the wheel is spun, and look for any rubbing or clearance problems. Ask a qualified fitter to check the wheel before you commit.
When to walk away
Do not buy a wheel with visible cracks, bends that affect the shape of the rim, or heavy corrosion around the spokes and bolt holes. Do not buy a wheel that has no clear specification or whose seller will not allow an inspection. A wheel in this condition is a safety risk, however cheap it looks.
After you buy
Have the wheel balanced with a suitable tyre before fitting, and fit it with the correct bolts or nuts. Tighten them to the torque specified for your vehicle and re-check after the first short drive. Keep the receipt and the specification in case you need to return the wheel.
Frequently asked questions
Are used Eagle wheels safe? They can be, if the specification matches your vehicle and the wheel passes a careful inspection with no cracks or serious damage.
Can a used wheel be refurbished? Light cosmetic damage can often be refinished. Cracks and structural damage mean the wheel should be replaced.
Do used wheels affect my warranty? They can in some cases, so check your vehicle warranty terms before fitting non-standard wheels.
Get help before you buy
For more on choosing wheels and tyres, read our wheel guides. If you are not sure whether a used wheel is safe for your vehicle, contact us with the make, model, and year and we will help you check.