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 13 May 2018 by LPG
Answered by
Tim Kelly
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.
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.
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