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Buy Alloy Wheel Online

Also known as: Rim, Wheel Rim

OEM & aftermarket alloy wheel from top brands — compare prices, check fitment, order with free delivery

Browse alloy wheel from trusted brands. Compare prices, check vehicle compatibility, and order with fast UK delivery.

Alloy Wheel buying guide — what to know before you buy

Alloy wheels — also called rims or wheel rims — combine cast or forged aluminium alloy construction with a range of finishes and spoke designs to reduce unsprung weight, improve brake cooling, and enhance appearance. Compared with steel wheels, alloys dissipate heat from the brakes more quickly, contribute to sharper handling, and are a significant factor in kerb appeal. A cracked or corroded alloy must be replaced promptly because structural failure at speed can cause catastrophic tyre deflation. CarParts247 stocks alloy wheels from OZ Racing, ATS, Dezent, and Alutec across a wide range of bolt patterns and offsets to fit most European, Asian, and American vehicles.

Understanding fitment specifications

Correct fitment depends on five measurements: rim diameter (in inches), rim width (in inches), pitch circle diameter (PCD), number of studs, and offset (ET value). Using a wheel with an incorrect ET value can cause tyre-to-bodywork contact or bearing overload.

Rim diameter: must match tyre size (e.g. 17-inch wheel takes a 17-inch tyre)
PCD: the circle on which the wheel bolts sit — must match the hub exactly
Offset (ET): the distance from the wheel centreline to the hub face; higher ET means the wheel sits further inboard
Centre bore: the central hole must match the hub diameter; use spigot rings for a larger bore
Load rating: must exceed the vehicle's maximum axle load

Corrosion and damage

Alloy wheels corrode when the lacquer or powder coat is damaged by kerbing, pothole impacts, or road salt. Surface corrosion is cosmetic and repairable, but deep pitting close to the bead seat can cause slow tyre pressure loss. Cracks in the spokes or rim are a safety hazard — take the wheel out of service immediately.

Diamond-cut or polished finishes require special attention: they corrode quickly if the lacquer is not replenished and are not suitable for pressure washing.

Buying new versus refurbished

New alloys give a known structural history. Refurbished wheels are an economical alternative for cosmetic upgrades, but inspect the bead seat carefully — sand blasting and repainting can obscure hairline cracks. Budget for new wheel bolts or nuts when changing to aftermarket alloys, as seat angle and thread length often differ from the original.

Check the wheel bolt or nut seat angle — conical or ball seats are not interchangeable
Fit new locking wheel nuts and keep the key code in a secure location
Balance every new wheel after fitting to prevent steering vibration
Use a torque wrench — overtightened studs stretch and warp brake discs

Frequently Asked Questions

Are alloy wheel and rim the same thing?

Yes. "Alloy Wheel" and "Rim" refer to the same car part. Other common names include Rim, Wheel Rim. The part is the same regardless of which name is used.

Can I fit alloys from another make of car?

Only if the PCD, offset, and centre bore match. Even a correct PCD with a wrong offset can cause tyre rubbing or premature wheel-bearing wear. Use a reputable fitment calculator and verify before purchasing.

Why does my steering vibrate after fitting new alloys?

The wheels need balancing. Every new wheel and tyre combination should be balanced on a dynamic balancing machine after fitting. Vibration also points to incorrect torque or a damaged centre-bore spigot ring.

Are winter tyres compatible with alloy wheels?

Yes — many drivers keep a dedicated set of narrower alloys with winter tyres fitted. Narrower rims can help the tyre cut through snow. Check that the winter-tyre-specific rim size is compatible with the vehicle's brake calipers.

How do I tell if an alloy wheel is cracked?

Inspect the back face, spoke roots, and bead seat areas with a torch and a magnifying glass. A dye-penetrant test (available from motor factors) will reveal hairline cracks that are invisible to the naked eye.

What torque should I use for alloy wheel bolts?

The correct torque is listed in the vehicle handbook — typically 90 to 120 Nm for passenger cars. Always retighten after 30 miles following a wheel change, as bolts can settle slightly.