Why Aftermarket Wheels Often Outperform OEM

What Makes Aftermarket Wheels Lighter?

One of the primary reasons many drivers opt for aftermarket wheels is the significant reduction in weight. By using advanced materials and manufacturing processes, aftermarket wheels can be lighter than OEM options, enhancing vehicle performance. A lighter wheel reduces unsprung mass, which can improve handling, acceleration, and braking. In our Crumpsall workshop, we see this benefit realised every time we fit a set of forged aftermarket alloys on a customer’s Toyota GT86, instantly making the car feel more agile.

How Do Aftermarket Wheels Enhance Aesthetics?

Aesthetics are another major factor where aftermarket wheels outshine OEM. The variety of styles, finishes, and sizes available in the aftermarket world is vast. This means car enthusiasts can find the perfect look to match their personal style. For example, a Vauxhall Astra owner wanted a more aggressive stance and chose a set of satin black alloys with a diamond-cut face. We executed a perfect fitment, and the transformation was immediate and striking, drawing compliments from everyone at the workshop.

Why Choose Aftermarket Wheels for Customisation?

Customisation is at the heart of the aftermarket appeal. OEM wheels are typically designed for mass appeal and standardisation, leaving little room for personal expression. In contrast, aftermarket wheels can be tailored to specific tastes and performance needs. At Manchester Alloys, we frequently assist customers in selecting custom colours and finishes, such as powder coating in unique hues, to make their wheels truly one-of-a-kind.

Are Aftermarket Wheels as Durable as OEM?

Durability of aftermarket wheels can match or even exceed OEM standards, especially when opting for reputable brands that utilise high-quality materials and manufacturing techniques. Forged wheels, for example, are crafted from a single block of metal, making them incredibly strong compared to cast wheels. A customer with a Volkswagen Golf R came to us after bending an OEM wheel on a pothole-ridden stretch of the M60. We recommended a set of aftermarket forged wheels, which offered superior strength and resilience to the harsh road conditions.

Do Aftermarket Wheels Affect Vehicle Fitment?

Fitment is a important consideration when switching to aftermarket wheels. It’s important to ensure that the new wheels have the correct PCD (pitch circle diameter), offset, and centre bore to match the vehicle’s specifications. At Manchester Alloys, we meticulously verify these dimensions using precise tools. A Seat Leon owner recently visited our Middleton Road workshop, worried about potential fitment issues with aftermarket wheels. We assured them by test-fitting the wheels, checking clearances, and ensuring optimal performance with the correct offset and PCD.

Reviewed by

Casey Jones

Forged wheel and performance car specialist · 6 years hands-on

First-in-the-world fitments on the new-shape Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, BMW XM, and Citroen Ami. Thousands of wheels and tyres personally sold and physically fitted across performance, luxury, and classic vehicles. Every article on this site is reviewed against real workshop experience.