Bent Wheel or Damaged Rim
A bent wheel can cause highway vibration, air leaks, steering shake, and uneven tire wear.
Can I Drive?
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Most Likely Causes
- 1
Pothole or curb impact
Hard impacts can bend the inner or outer rim lip.
- 2
Cracked wheel
A crack can cause air loss and vibration.
- 3
Wheel not seating flat on hub
Rust or debris can make a wheel appear bent.
- 4
Tire damage after impact
The tire belt may be damaged along with the wheel.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Spin wheel and watch runout
A bent wheel may wobble visibly when spun.
Tool: Lift or balance machine
- 2
Check for air loss at bead or crack
Use soapy water around rim and bead areas.
Tool: Soapy water spray
- 3
Inspect tire for bulges or belt shift
Look for sidewall bubbles or tread distortion after impact.
Tool: Flashlight
How to Fix It
Repair or replace bent wheel
Minor bends may be repairable; cracked wheels should be replaced.
Replace damaged tire
Do not reuse a tire with belt separation or sidewall bubble.
Clean hub mating surface
Remove rust or debris before reinstalling wheel.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not keep driving on a cracked wheel or tire with a sidewall bubble.
- Do not assume a vibration is only balance when the wheel has impact damage.
- Do not mount a new tire on a wheel that cannot hold air or run true.