Could a bent wheel rim affect how the car handles?

Hi,

I looked at the picture and certainly saw the bend. Because of the location of the bend, I don't feel it would cause a handling issue.

What I suggest is this. It should be replaced because the next time you get tires, they may have issues removing/installing a tire without damage to the bead. So, you may want to have a shop put it on the tire balancer and spin it to see if there are any other bends that may cause problems for you. If there aren't and you aren't losing air, drive it until you can get a new one.

Explain to me what is happening when driving. Let me know as much as you can.

Take care,

Joe

Hi,

If there was a balance issue, you would likely feel a vibration in the steering and not the veering issue.

Tell me, is there anything that seems to prompt this to happen? Also, after driving it for a while, is there excessive heat coming from that wheel? Have you checked for a problem with a worn tie rod or another steering component?

Try this. Safely lift one front wheel off the ground at a time. Place your hands at 3 and 9 o'clock and try to wiggle the wheel back and forth. Do the same at 12 and 6 o'clock. Do you feel any play or is there any noise you notice?

Here is a link that explains how a tie rod is replaced. I'm adding it so you know what to look at if there is play and not for replacing a part.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement

Let me know what you find.

Joe