Sometimes when doing the regular truck check, you will realize that one or all wheels are bent. The bends on the rims might result from the terrain where you often drive your truck and your driving habits. Bent rims and wheels will give you uncomfortable rides and might interfere with the stability of your truck at a certain speed. The instability will likely cause a roll if you attain a specific speed. Have you ever asked yourself what causes this? Let us look at what causes bent wheels and rims in trucks or other vehicles out there.

What Causes Bent Wheels and Rims In My Truck

Driving on Low Profile Tires

There are two types of tires, high and low-profile tires. The high-profile tires are good at absorbing shock when driving on rugged terrains. They offer more comfort and protect the rims from road shock. The low-profile tires are designed for performance sports cars. Such tires are uncomfortable as they do not absorb shock when driving on poor roads. When driving off-road on low-profile tires, you will experience rim bends, and sometimes the rims might crack. 

Corrosion

During winter, most states use salt to reduce road snow and ice. As you drive your truck, the salty roads come into contact with the rims. All metals are prone to corrosion, including alloys. Sometimes you might not feel it, but salt has a long-term impact on the rims. It weakens the rims with time. Corroded rims are not even and do not seal correctly with the tire. If your tires regularly deflate, there might be a problem with the rims.

Driving Over a Curb

Parallel parking is giving most drivers a headache. When parking or driving at high speed, you might heat curbs unexpectedly. You might see marked areas at the parking lots, which sometimes might not be markings but curbs. Whenever you drive over them, the rim suffers. When this happens, the rims become the number one victim before the shocks and are likely to bend. 

Potholes

Poorly maintained roads have a lot of potholes. Some areas are known for roads with potholes. When driving over potholes, the rims, axles, and shocks will likely suffer since these areas receive the road’s shock directly. Sometimes the potholes might seem too small and harmless to your truck. But if you drive over several of them with your truck, the rims will likely bend. 

Driving Underinflated Tires

Driving a truck with less or no pressure on the wheels increases the level of fuel consumption as well as damages your rims. Flat tires make the wheels feel the direct weight of the truck. As you drive, the rims might be overwhelmed and finally bend. 

Conclusion

Tire and wheel bend on a truck depends on how you drive and the terrain you regularly navigate. The above are some of the causes of wheel and tire bends. It would be best if you were conversant with them so that you avoid them at all costs. If your rims are bent, consider repairing them or even buying and fixing a new one. Performing rim service is one of the life-saving services you can perform to your truck.