What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

I got a cracked alloy welded rather than replaced - could this invalidate my insurance?

When my Mercedes-Benz C-Class was about three months old, during a safety check, the dealer discovered one of the rear wheels was cracked (pot hole I guess - but no loss of pressure). Rather than pay £600 for a new one, I paid a local specialist welding company to repair it. The car is now just over three years old and I was told recently this could invalidate my insurance in the event of an accident. Is this correct?

Asked on 14 May 2018 by LPG

Answered by Honest John
If you had an accident as a result of the wheel failing, then yes, technically you could have your insurance invalidated because you were aware of it. Welding alloys is a big no, I definitely would never have it done. If it is fractured, bin it. Imagine if your wheel failed and, as a result, it killed somebody for the sake of £600. Has the repaired alloy been x-rayed or dye tested?
Aluminum needs to be stuck in an oven to get extremely hot before being welded, especially if it cast/forged. Few specialists have the facilities to do this.
Similar questions
My BMW Z4 has a cracked alloy wheel and a punctured run flat on the rear can either of these be professionally welded/repaired (by say Lepsons or a properly qualified wheel/tyre repair outlet? If not what...
I have been informed I may be able to claim for pothole damage to my tyres and alloy wheel caused by public roads. First incident was a damaged tyre which needed replacing. Second incident was damaged...
Can damaged alloy wheels be repaired?
Related models
Excellent refinement and very composed ride quality. Quiet diesel engine. Superb cabin quality. Spacious for rear seat passengers. Capable off-road if need be.