Premium vehicle alloys pose higher risk

Intelligent Motoring, the expert behind vehicle ownership and management solution MotorEasy, has analysed alloy wheel insurance claims data to reveal a disproportionate risk to alloy wheels fitted to premium vehicles.

Brands with the highest proportion of alloy wheel claims include Tesla, Porsche and Land Rover, while the fewest claims were made for more mainstream makes such as Hyundai, Kia and Renault.

Nearly 85% of MotorEasy alloy wheel insurance policyholders will reportedly make a claim, but these claims are heavily weighted towards the premium brand vehicles. For example, the average Tesla driver will make 3 claims during their policy, while fewer than 10% of MG owners will ever make a similar claim. Most claims are made because of damage caused by kerbs, which pose a greater hazard for premium and electric vehicles and those with low-profile tyres.

Duncan McClure Fisher, CEO of Intelligent Motoring, explained: “There are several reasons premium vehicles are more at risk of alloy damage. Their larger wheels and low-profile tyres have a higher chance of hitting a kerb and offer less cushioning against potholes.

“Luxury and electric vehicles are also heavier, while performance-oriented vehicles have stiffer suspension, which increases the amount of force absorbed by the wheels themselves, leading to more damage. Of course, a higher claim rate for premium cars could also have something to do with owners’ wanting to keep their pride and joy in pristine condition.

“Urban driving conditions also increase the risk of alloy damage, as potholes, speed bumps, and tight parking spaces are more common. However, there are some things drivers can do to reduce the risk, such as using wheel protectors or ceramic coating, driving more cautiously on uneven surfaces and when manoeuvring close to kerbs. Of course, alloy wheel insurance is another important protection against the financial impact of damaged wheels, especially for premium vehicles.”