Rims bend on any pothole! Help!

[sweetcar]

Hi all- My 97 328ci has 21,000 miles and I have had to replace 5 wheels on the car due to hitting potholes on the NJ turnpike. I have the upgraded sport wheels 7x16" and Dunlop 225/50zr16 SP 2 tires. Yesterday I hit a curb (while trying to avoid a pothole!) and dented two more wheels!!! Dealer says there is nothing to be done but to replace them again with the same. Any ideas... or do I just avoid the turnpike? Thanks - Love the chat!

 

[ThatOneGuy]

Wheels can be fixed. As you seem to have a extra pair at the moment, send them out for repair so you have spares. If you get tired of that, you might consider a set of high quality forged wheels.

 

[Tom]

Forged wheels is a good option.

I'm not 100% sure on NJ laws, but most cities will reimburse you for damages to your car as a result of unmaintained roads.

 

[Tom]

Update:

Here is a link and a number you can call to file a claim.
http://www.nj.gov/transportation/commuter/potholeform.shtm
609-984-7294

1) Make sure you write down the street name
2) Date/time accident occured
3) Take a picture of the pothole
4) Take pictures of your wheel
5) Repair receipt or estimate of damage due to pothole

Good luck.

 

[Abdoman]

You might look at your tires. I noticed that I bent a couple of rims with a new set of tires that had very stiff sidewalls, right after I put them on.