Toyota of Orlando's Guide to Alloy Wheel Repair

 

When it comes to Orlando Toyotas, alloy wheels are becoming a more and more popular choice due to their lighter weight and elevated look. However, they are also easily damaged by potholes and other common road hazards. This can easily be fixed by our Toyota of Orlando collision techs, but what does the repair process look like? This is our guide on everything you need to know about alloy wheel repair.

Pay Attention to Your Wheels

Even before you get into an accident, you should be checking your alloy wheels. There are a few different reasons why:

• Appearance: Alloy wheels add to the overall aesthetic appeal and modern vibes of the car. Any scruffs or scratches take away from this appearance, so it's important to address any damage as soon as it appears.

• Safety: If you see any damage to your wheels and continue to drive, you could risk the structural integrity and deal with bigger issues such as air leaks, tire blowouts, and car control issues.

• Investment: Alloy wheels are investments that look good and offer protection, which later leads to a better resale value for your car.

When To Come In For Alloy Wheel Repair

There are multiple warning signs that indicate you need alloy wheel repair, including: 

• Vibrations/Shaking: If you feel any vibrations or shaking in your seat or steering wheel while driving, this could indicate a bent wheel rim or wheel imbalance.
• Pulling to One Side: If your car is pulling to the side while driving, it could be caused by wheel damage or wheel alignment issues.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Damaged tires can cause alignment issues, which lead to uneven wear on your tires.
• Frequent Air Pressure Loss: Cracked or bent wheels can cause constant air pressure loss in your tires, which can lead to further issues.
• Visible Damage: If your tires have scratches, chips, cracks, or dents on the surface, you should bring your car in for alloy wheel repair.
• Odd Sounds: Any thumping or rattling while driving usually means there’s an issue with your wheels or tire rims.
• Car Handling Issues: If you experience any difficulty steering your vehicle, it may be caused by a broken part on your wheels.

If you notice any of these issues, you’ll need to bring your vehicle to Toyota of Orlando ASAP before something bad happens on the road.

The Alloy Wheel Repair Process at Toyota of Orlando

When you bring your vehicle in for an alloy wheel repair, there are four steps your Toyota of Orlando collision technicians will take to restore the wheels: 

1. Cleaning and Inspection: First, they clean off the wheel and inspect the level of damage to identify the root of the problem.
2. Repair Damage: There can be various sources of damage (as we discussed before), so this step involves everything from reshaping bent parts, filling in dents, or even welding entirely new pieces.
3. Priming and Painting: After the necessary repairs, the alloy wheel is primed and then repaired to match the original part.
4. Wheel Balancing and Reinstallation: Finally, the tire is balanced and then reinstalled onto your vehicle!

Alloy Wheel Repair Cost

The alloy wheel repair cost depends on three factors: wheel type, type of damage, and location. Usually, this brings the cost to anywhere between $85 to $460, but keep in mind that larger repairs will be more costly than minor fixes.

How To Save Money on Your Repairs

We know this can be costly, but these repairs are important to keep your car running smoothly. We have a few tips to help keep the cost down: 

• Avoid Markups: Make sure to visit the Toyota of Orlando Collision Center for your alloy wheel repair to ensure you’re getting the best deal with technicians who know your car!
• Regular Inspections: Detect early signs of damage by regularly scheduling maintenance for your vehicle to avoid any future repairs!

Visit Toyota of Orlando for Your Alloy Wheel Repair!

Need an alloy wheel repair today? Schedule your appointment at Toyota of Orlando’s Collision Center today to get the best service for your car! Call them at 407-298-6006.

How to Clean Car Wheels for Beginners

When you think of cleaning your car or car detailing in general, you need to know how to clean car wheels. This overlooked portion of your ride is not only satisfying but also important! At Toyota of Orlando, we’re “ Making it Simple™” and breaking down how to do it right, products you’ll need and more!

Why Clean Your Wheels?

These are the shoes of your Orlando Toyota; they take on the dirt, grime, and even brake dust. Every time you hit those brakes, there are tiny particles that come off your brake pad,s and the dust sticks to your wheels. Over time, the brake dust can corrode the finish and damage your wheels. In addition, you want to consider safety! If there’s excessive dirt, it can cover up any damage or cracks on your wheels. Car detailing comes in handy when you’re thinking of resale value, especially with an Orlando Toyota! If you regularly clean your ride, this prevents any permanent stains or corrosion. 

Car Detailing Supplies You Need

Before we get into how to clean car wheels, you’ll need a few car detailing supplies. First, you’ll need wheel cleaner specifically for your type of wheels, such as alloy, chrome, painted, and more. If you’re unsure what kind of wheels you have, check the owner’s manual in your Orlando ride. Now, you’ll need a wheel brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching and a microfiber towel for drying and buffing. In addition, don’t forget a bucket of water for rinsing and a hose or pressure washer for tougher grime and dirt. You can even add tire cleaner and tire shine for a shiny touch. 

The Process

Now that you have all the supplies, you’re ready to get into how to clean car wheels and car wash basics! Pro tip from our Toyota of Orlando parts specialists: make sure you always start with your wheels first. You don’t want any dirt and grime splashing on your paint. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Rinse: Using a hose or pressure washer, rinse away any dirt and brake dust. This will help avoid any scratches. 

2. Spray Cleaner: You need to get cleaner all over the wheel; let it sit for one to two minutes, or be sure to follow the instructions on the product! Don’t let the product dry! Something important to note on how to clean car wheels: don’t use harsh home cleaners or degreasers. 

3. Scrub: Grab your brush and dip it into your bucket with clean water, and then you can start scrubbing. Now, an important how to clean car wheels tip: be sure to get the face, between the spokes and around the lug nuts. 

4. Rinse Again: Be sure to rinse off all the product and make sure there is no dirt left behind. 

5. Dry: Using your microfiber towel, dry your wheels. Be sure to keep this microfiber towel specifically for your tires to avoid cross-contamination of chemicals on your Orlando Toyota.

We talked about the optional tire spray for a shine once you’ve cleaned everything. Go ahead and spray your tires. This can really make your Orlando Toyota sparkle! 

Tips and Tricks on How to Clean Car Wheels

When wondering how to clean car wheels, you might want to know what the experts think. Our Toyota of Orlando team recommends the following:

• Clean your wheels regularly.

• Never clean your wheels immediately after driving; this can damage the finish, and the cleaner can dry fast!

• Be sure to use separate tools. A key on how to clean car wheels is using different tools. This will help you avoid scratching your ride or chemically damaging your paint. 

• Protect your wheels. After learning how to clean car wheels, you’ve put in the work! You can use wheel wax or a seal to make cleaning easier and even help repel brake dust. 

These tips and tricks are just a few things that can help you answer how to clean car wheels.

Wheel Cleaning Products

Now, what products should you be using? Whether you’re shopping in person at Toyota of Orlando or online, there are a few beginner-friendly products that have some great reviews.

• Meguiar’s Hot Rims Wheel Cleaner

• Chemical Guys Diablo Gel

• Sonax Wheel Cleaner Plus

• Mother's Wheel Brush

• Chemical Guys Tire and Rubber Cleaner

These products are typically great for regular maintenance, changing colors, and being tough on grime and they can get your tires looking like new. You’ll want to go through the reviews and see which works best for your ride. If you aren’t sure, you can always contact our Toyota of Orlando parts specialists for more information and help. 

Get Your Detailing Products at Toyota of Orlando

Now you know how to answer how to clean car wheels and what you need. If you’re looking for guidance or products, you can come on down to Toyota of Orlando. We’re just off the I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia or you can give us a call at (407) 298-4500 today.

A Guide to the Best Service Center for You

Whether you go to your local Toyota Service Center or find a private shop, you need to know what to look for. Our trusted team at Toyota of Orlando is “Making it Simple™” and breaking down what to look for, what to ask and more! 

Types of Auto Service Centers 

There’s different types of Auto service centers; there’s two major options to know. Whether you choose a Toyota service center or another option, it’s important to know what’s out there! Now this is also dependent on the car you have and what service you need. Here are the differences:

• Dealerships: A dealership service department, like a Toyota service center, is familiar with the cars they sell. They’ll know common issues, have the latest equipment and have access to any special service advisories from the automaker. 

• Independents: While these shops may be cheaper, the quality can vary and they may not have the tools or expertise to work on your car. 

Searching for a Auto Service Center 

When you’re looking for a trusted mechanic, you need to look at online reviews, how they respond to reviews and how long they have been in business. Once you’re ready to visit the Toyota service center in person, you need to look for a few more details. We’re talking;

• Appearance and amenities: A clean and well-organized shop shows attention to detail and an effort to their image. You’ll also want to look for a comfortable waiting area and clean bathrooms. Some places will even offer a courtesy shuttle service, like at Toyota of Orlando! Our courtesy shuttle service takes you within five miles of the dealership while you wait for service. 

• Technicians: Look for any certifications or service training; this could be advertised in the shop or online. If you don’t see any, be sure to ask your service advisor or an employee. Our Orlando Toyota service center has 40 certified technicians working on your vehicle! 

• Warranty: You’ll want to ask about a 12-month/12,000-mile parts and labor warranty on the work provided. Our Orlando Toyota service center repairs are backed by this warranty and we’ll even send you reminder emails about your recommended maintenance schedule. 

What to Ask at Your Orlando Auto Service Center

When you’re getting service done on your car, you should be asking questions. Now, before you start asking questions, be sure to describe any issues you’re having with your car. An important question you should ask your Toyota service center tech what they believe the issue can be. You’ll also want to ask other questions like

• How long will repairs take?

• How will you communicate with me regarding any updates?

• What’s included in my service?

• Do you specialize in my make and model?
  

A trusted Toyota service center technician will be able to answer these questions. Our Toyota of Orlando team is able to help answer these questions and any others you might come across. 

Get your Service Today at Toyota of Orlando

You want to service your car with a trusted team who knows the ins and outs of your ride. That’s why our Orlando Toyota Service Center technicians are here to help. Schedule your service online or come on down; we’re at 3575 Vineland Road or you can give us a call at (407) 298-0001.