The anatomy of the alloy wheel

The majority of new cars on British roads, as well as those produced within the last decade, have been fitted with alloy wheels from new. In most cases, the bare alloy wheels were gripped on a rotating paint stand, etchprimed and painted, prior to being lacquered with a layer of clear paint, which not only imparts a shiny finish but is also vital for keeping out moisture that will corrode the metal.

The most recent trend is to create a highly polished diamondcut surface on the spoke after the colour has been applied but before the final lacquering stage. This is achieved using a diamond-tipped cutting blade. Once fitted to the car, the centre hub is covered with either a plastic or metal – and usually branded – centre cap.