GM warns that wheel reconditioning is a dangerous practice in collision repair.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases Position Statements explaining which methods of auto body repair they recommend or do not.  While some shops disregard these statements, we take a fine-toothed comb to the information they provide so we can deliver the best possible repair for every vehicle that comes through our doors.

In the case of wheel reconditioning, GM has issued a Position Statement that clearly discourages this practice in any Cadillac repair.  If you are not familiar with wheel reconditioning, it is a process of using various tools and methods to repair a damaged wheel rather than replace it entirely.  Some methods include welding, reforming, or reshaping the wheel.  

Here’s what they say:

“GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening, or re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel’s coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed.  In evaluating damage, the GM Dealer is responsible for inspecting the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, and other damage. The Dealer must ensure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished.”

The problem with reconditioning methods, such as heating, welding, and reshaping, is that they can compromise the structural integrity of your wheels.  If a wheel is damaged enough to warrant reconditioning, then it should just be replaced outright.       

Being the only parts of the car that actually make contact with the road, your wheels are essential to your safety and warrant the proper time and energy.  It is simply not worth the risk to your life to take chances with the condition of your vehicle’s wheels.

 

Why does GM approve of wheel refinishing?

While GM disapproves of wheel reconditioning, certain cosmetic repairs are okay.  The wheels must be carefully inspected for cracks, gouges, or bending. 

GM says, “A refinisher’s responsibility includes inspecting for cracks using the Zyglo system or the equivalent. Any cracked wheels must not be refinished. No welding, hammering, or reforming of any kind is allowed. The wheel ID must be recorded and tracked throughout the process to ensure the same wheel is returned. Material removal, though, must be kept to a minimum. Re-machining of the wheel is not allowed. Paint and/or clear coat must not be present on the following surfaces: the nut chambers, the wheel mounting surfaces, and the wheel pilot hole. The refinisher must permanently ID stamp the wheel and warrant the painted/clear-coated surfaces for a minimum of one year or the remainder of the new vehicle warranty, whichever is longer.”

As you can see, GM provides very clear instructions for the procedures we must follow while inspecting and refinishing your Cadillac’s wheels.  If the damage is easily sanded or painted, refinishing is acceptable.  If the damage is more than superficial, then the wheels must be replaced.  

Superficial cosmetic adjustments are allowed, since they won’t jeopardize the integrity of the wheel structure.  Minor sanding and polishing repairs do not involve heat or reshaping, unlike reconditioning.    

Not all body shops follow these recommendations, but Alioto’s does.

It isn’t very pleasant, but some shops throw caution to the wind and continue wheel reconditioning despite GM’s adamant recommendation to avoid it at all costs.  They can get away with this because nobody is actually forced to adhere to a manufacturer’s Position Statement.  

At Alioto’s body shops, we firmly believe that there’s no reason to take a chance with your Cadillac’s collision repair by going against the advice of the manufacturer.  Reconditioned wheels can lead to hazardous problems.  We replace your Cadillac’s wheels entirely if they’ve sustained significant damage, or we will follow proper refinishing methods if the damage is cosmetic. 

You don’t need to worry about driving on unstable wheels when you bring your vehicle to us.  We always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to deliver the safest possible repair to our customers.