What Are the Advantages of Having Aluminum Wheels?

When it’s time to bring your vehicle in for commercial tire replacement or service, one decision you may need to make is about the type of wheels that are best for your vehicle. There are two main options: aluminum wheels and steel wheels. Which is better? Get informed about the pros and cons of each so you can make the right decision when it’s time for tire replacement on your truck or semi-trailer. 

What You Should Know About Aluminum Wheels

Aluminum wheels have entered the market with great promise. They are designed to be lighter than steel wheels, which may help to reduce fuel costs. They offer other potential benefits as well, such as:

• Lighter wheels mean better load capacity for fleets. Companies can add on more freight and still stay within legal limits. 
• Aluminum is also less likely to chip, crack, or peel, which improves its overall durability. They do not rust like steel can as well. That means the mounting surfaces remain in good condition. 
• Aluminum wheels improve agility and fuel efficiency because of their lighter design. 

While aluminum wheels feel like the overall winner in this process, that’s not always the case. For example, steel wheels are more resistant to gravel and deicers. They are also less likely to suffer damage from brake dust, which makes them an excellent choice for rougher roads and winter conditions. Notably, steel continues to be more affordable than aluminum.

How to Determine Which Is Right for You?

To make this decision, the experts at our commercial tire service recommend that you consider these factors.

• Finishing Options: Aluminum tends to offer more options, including bare polished, PVD (physical vapor deposition), and machined and clear-coated. 
• Spoke Options: Aluminum has a large number of spoke options, but steel offers just a few, making it less of a preferred choice for some drivers.
• Driving Purpose: Aluminum is an all-purchase wheel ideal for most conditions, including more difficult conditions with performance tires. Steel does well in off-pavement travel, four-season commuting, and heavy snow travel. 
• Fuel Efficiency: Overall, aluminum tends to be lighter weight which improves fuel efficiency but still doesn’t add too much to gas mileage. 
• Cost: Aluminum wheels are a bit more expensive than steel, but this also depends on the brand. Brand quality can influence costs significantly. Cheaper, offshore brands of tires generally tend to be of poorer quality, while locally manufactured, leading brands have lasting value even though they cost a bit more.  Moreover, they can also be cleaned and refinished by a commercial aluminum wheel cleaning service, such as Aluminshine. 

When it comes to making a decision, come in for commercial tire service with our team. Let us offer recommendations based on the type of truck, work, and conditions you’re driving in to ensure you get not only the right tire type but also the best products. 

STTC is your go-to provider for commercial tire service. Above all else, our goal is to ensure safety, competitive cost, and outstanding service for your truck fleets and drivers. Call now at 610-954-8473 or contact us online.