Wheel straightening vs new wheels

[fr3nch]

Three of the wheels on a E46 I just bought are slightly bent. They balance out, but I can still feel a slight vibration in the steering wheel sometimes, which drives me nuts. I was quoted $450 to straighten all three. I can buy new wheels for $600. Will the old rims be like new after I get them straightened? Are there any drawbacks to wheel straightening?

[twastheglow]

It really depends on the condition of the wheels. If they're perfect (with the exception of the bend(s)), then they'll be perfect after they straighten them. If they have any curbing, dings, scratches, etc, they'll still have all those defects after too-unless of course rim repair was part of that quote.

In my opinion, if they have any defects on them, the extra $150 to buy new ones would be worth it...although I can't imagine what wheels you have if they're $600 for a new set.

People tend to have expensive wheels straightened because it's dramatically cheaper to straighten them (depending on the bend) than it is to buy a new one. That is not the case with your wheels so it's really up to you.

[z3papa]

This is the same dilemma I am considering. I have a set of 17"x8.5" AC Schnitzer Type III's which have minor bends but still hold air while having a minor vibration. I can get them straightened and refinished for $500 but really want some lightweight (DForce LTW5 or Apex ARC8) 17x9 wheels. I may get them done and sell them for $1200 or have them done and keep them but can't see the logic of just tossing them.

[about6]

These guys really helped me out. http://www.ibentmywheel.com

[fr3nch]

I just bought a used set of straight wheels for less than it would cost to straighten mine. They are guareneed to be straight, I just hope they are not beat to shit. I need a set of wheels for winter tires so I did check out ibentmywheel. I'll let you know how it turns out. If the wheels check out I'll let you know where I bought them. I don't want to recommend this place if they try and screw me.