Pothole damage a leading cause of alloy wheel repairs

Potholes are a leading cause of alloy wheel damage across the UK and Ireland, with damage often occurring when stones or grit is thrown up by other road users, thus scratching or chipping the wheel.

According to British repairer Revive UK, there has been a 25 per cent year-on-year increase in alloy wheel repairs in the UK during the first quarter of 2026.

It cites an excess amount of rainfall and cold temperatures during the winter as a major contributing factor to pothole-related vehicle damage. Ireland also experienced above-average rainfall last winter.

“Critical damage is not only being caused to alloy wheels, but to important suspension and steering components, presenting a serious safety risk to road users,” said Revive UK managing director Mark Llewellyn.

While the AA Ireland has previously reported that around 35 per cent of motorists per year suffer wheel damage due to potholes, it remains clear that more funding is needed for the maintenance and protection of Irish roads.