When shopping for used OEM wheels, knowing what you’re buying can make all the difference. That’s where the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) comes in. The ARA’s Wheel Grading Standard ensures that used wheels are inspected, graded, and sold with clear guidelines on condition and quality. Let’s break down how the system works and why it matters to you as a buyer.
What Is the ARA Wheel Grading Standard?
The ARA developed the Wheel Grading Standard to provide transparency and confidence for customers purchasing used OEM wheels. This standard ensures that each wheel is visually inspected for functional damage, cosmetic blemishes, and overall quality before being graded.
Key Benefits:
- Guarantees wheels are safe, functional, and balanced.
- Eliminates guesswork when shopping for pre-owned rims.
- Provides a fair and consistent grading system.
The Wheel Grading Process
Step 1: Initial Inspection
Wheels are inspected for structural integrity and safety. Issues like:
- Cracks
- Bent rim flanges
- Distorted wheel holes
- Surface damage affecting functionality
Any wheels failing this step are discarded because they can’t hold air or be balanced.
Step 2: Detailed Cosmetic Inspection
After confirming structural integrity in Step 1, wheels are carefully inspected for:
- Corrosion
- Scrapes
- Gouges
- Dents
Any damage that cannot be corrected by sanding or polishing is noted. This ensures that only wheels in repairable or presentable condition proceed for grading.
Step 3: Cosmetic Grading
At this stage, wheels are graded based on cosmetic blemishes using the ARA Damage Codes. The system identifies wheels with no damage or varying levels of cosmetic wear:
- Grade A: A wheel with no blemish—the best condition available.
- Grade B: A wheel with minor blemishes, equal to one unit or less (one unit is the size of a credit card).
- Grade C: A wheel with more significant blemishes, greater than one unit in size.
This clear grading scale ensures that buyers understand the condition of the wheel they’re purchasing.
