Your dream car isn’t complete without the perfect set of alloy wheels. However, if you don’t know much about alloy wheels or you’re just not sure what finish or size is right for you, then keep reading. We’ll run through everything you need to know about alloy wheels so you can choose the right ones for you. 

Sizing 

Size does indeed matter here, both in terms of appearance and performance. Whichever you choose will depend on your goals regarding comfort and overall looks. 

Here’s how the size of your alloy wheels can affect your car: 

Larger Alloys 

Most people opt for larger alloys because generally, they do look better. They also provide better handling and grip in dry conditions. However, they can reduce ride comfort, acceleration, and fuel efficiency due to a lack of cushioning, more weight, and more energy required to spin wider wheels. 

Smaller Alloys 

While less sought after, smaller alloys do offer a range of benefits, including:

• Better comfort – the taller tyre sidewalls absorb impact better, offering a smoother ride quality 
• Improved fuel efficiency – smaller alloys weigh less, positively contributing the fuel economy of the car
• Faster acceleration – less rotational mass allows the car to accelerate quicker 

Finishes 

There are numerous types of finishes available, each with their own unique style that can help to bring out your car’s aesthetic, whether that be sleek and modern or sporty and aggressive. 

Here are the most popular options: 

• Polished – glossy, reflective finish that requires regular cleaning 
• Matte – sporty, modern aesthetic and less cleaning required  
• Satin – easier to maintain than polish but still provides a subtle sheen 
• Chrome – dazzling but susceptible to scratches and requires thorough cleaning
• Painted – versatile with variety of colours and finishes available but prone to chipping and scratches
• Black or gunmetal – a practical, sleek, and modern choice
• Anodised – durable and corrosion resistant with various colours available 
• Diamond cut – high-shine, two-tone finish that offers a distinct appearance but requires more maintenance 

Alloy Wheel Maintenance 

To keep your alloy wheels in tip top shape, you need to maintain them properly. This means:

• Cleaning regularly – preferably every one to two weeks with a soft, non-abrasive brush and non-acidic cleaners (acidic cleaners and harsh bristles can ruin the finish) 
• Protecting against dust and grime – apply wax or sealant to prevent build up 
• Driving carefully – you don’t want to scrape or damage your alloys as this can lead to further corrosion

Where to Buy Alloy Wheels 

You can shop high-quality alloy wheels in various finishes at Wheel Guys or any other reputable wheel dealers in the UK. The higher the quality, the longer they’ll last and the better they’ll look, so always shop around to get the best wheels on the market! 

Even if you passed your driving test years ago, getting back behind the wheel can be scary if you haven’t driven for a while. Whether you’ve not driven for a while because you’ve been working from home or recently moved abroad, it’s important to refamiliarise yourself with your car and the road. Transitioning back into driving after a break involves a methodical approach to regain confidence and ensure safety. Begin by reacquainting yourself with your vehicle, checking that it is in good working condition, including tyre pressure, brakes, and fluid levels. Start with short, familiar routes to rebuild your comfort level gradually. Refresh your knowledge of current traffic laws and defensive driving practices to ensure you are up-to-date.

Here’s how you can have a smooth transition back to driving. 

1. Assess your readiness to drive 

Firstly, it’s important to assess your physical and mental readiness before you get behind the wheel. This is to keep you and other road users safe. 

Physically, you should check your vision, hearing and mobility. You should also be mindful of any medication that could impair your ability to drive. 

You’ll need to be mentally ready to drive, too. Try to assess your stress, focus, decision-making ability and emotional state as well as your confidence. 

To gauge your skills and confidence, think about the last time you were driving and how you felt. If you feel like you need more reassurance, you might want to seek feedback from friends and family. 

If you need to take this one step further and undertake a refresher course to regain confidence, check if this will be covered by car insurance.

2. Refresh your knowledge of road rules 

Before you start driving, you should re-familiarise yourself with the highway code and check for any changes in traffic laws, road signs or regulations. 

3. Make sure your vehicle is road-ready 

To give you peace of mind when you’re on the road, it’s a good idea to check your car is roadworthy – especially after a long period of inactivity. 

As a minimum, you should check the battery for charge, inspect your tyres for wear and top up fluids like oil, coolant and brake fluid. You should also examine your lights for functionality. 

If you’re not sure how to give your car a once-over, book in for a professional inspection at a local garage. 

4. Practical tips for easing back into driving 

To start with, try and only do short trips on roads you know, ideally during off-peak hours. This will help you gain confidence before you start tackling rush-hour mayhem. 

As well as driving on A-roads and motorways, you should spend time practicing your parking and maneuvering. It’s no good getting to your destination if you don’t know how to park once you get there! 

In conclusion, transitioning back into driving after a break requires a combination of preparation, patience, and practice. Start by familiarising yourself with your vehicle’s controls and ensuring it is in good working condition. Begin with short, familiar routes to rebuild confidence and gradually extend your driving range. Refresh your knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving techniques to enhance safety. Consider taking a refresher driving course if needed. By taking these steps, you can smoothly and safely return to driving, ensuring a confident and comfortable experience on the road.

PEMBROKESHIRE Vauxhall retailer W P Lewis & Son is the top for customer care in Wales for the seventh year in a row.

Denis Chick, Communications Director of Vauxhall Motors visited the dealership to present the team with Vauxhall’s 2018 customer excellence award.

The award is based on the results gained from Vauxhall satisfaction surveys sent out to customers and W P Lewis & Son is one of only four in Britain achieve award status consecutively since inception of the awards in 2012.

Steve Lloyd, Managing Director said, “I am extremely proud of our team who work tirelessly to provide the personal touch when it comes to customer care and Vauxhall’s customer excellence awards is testament to the hard work of our small team”.

The company is the only Vauxhall retailer in Wales to have achieved all 7 consecutive awards.

“Much of our team have been with the family business for many years and we certainly see ourselves as one big family. Our team provide a great service to our customers who in turn have provided us with wonderful feedback to Vauxhall which we are hugely grateful for,” added Steve.

Vauxhall Communications Director Denis Chick praised the team’s continuing success, “W P Lewis is a credit to the Vauxhall franchise. Winning the Customer Excellence Reward 7 years running shows that caring for customers is a top priority and one that the whole team can be proud of”.

Steve concluded “On behalf of our Director Margaret Lewis, I would like to thank staff and customers alike for their overwhelming support”.