Polo 6r 1.6 TDI alloys.

[ixReaperrr]

I've currently got the stock 15inch alloys but they're in pretty bad condition due to the last owner. I know everyone has different preferences but could anyone recommend any decent alloys? Also would 17" fit or would they be too big?

[SRGTD]

I’d go for a well known reputable makes of alloy such as BBS, Borbet, Ronal, Oz etc. Some of these manufacturers also make OEM alloys for VW. I’d avoid cheap Chinese imports and cheap replica wheels often sold on eBay and similar online auction sites. Some of these cheap imports may be of questionable quality; poor finish, and prone to buckling or cracking if you’re unlucky enough to hit a pothole or raised drain covers. Cheap imports are less likely to have been subjected to stringent quality control and structural testing (TUV, ABE, JWL or similar certification) that wheels manufactured by the likes of BBS, Borbet etc will have been.

17” alloys will fit the Polo - The 6r / 6c Polo GTI and BlueGT came with 17” alloys as standard. I have these fitted to my Polo GTI (VW Motorsport in anthracite grey; 7Jx17 ET46);

However, not all 17” alloys will fit - whether or not a specific 17” alloy will fit depends upon the bolt pattern (PCD), centre bore size, wheel width and the offset (ET). The Polo has a PCD of 5x100 and a centre bore of 57.1 and the factory 17” alloys fitted to the BlueGT and GTI are 7Jx17 ET46 or 7.5Jx17 ET44. Be aware that if you choose wheels with an aggressive offset, you could experience rubbing issues with the tyres fouling the bodywork (edge of the wheel arches). I’d also avoid diamond cut alloys; they may look good, but the diamond cut finish isn’t particularly durable - if it gets damaged by stone chips or kerbing, then water can creep under the lacquered surface; and if this happens, white worm corrosion will set in and can only be removed by having a full refurb. Some online alloy wheel websites actually state that diamond cut alloys aren’t really suitable for winter use. Given the choice, I’d always go for alloys with a powder coated / painted finish.

There’s a useful offset calculator on the Will they Fit? website; www.willtheyfit.com. The calculator will calculate the impact on clearance of the new, replacement wheel/tyre combination compared to your existing set up.

If you were considering buying used wheels, always ask the seller if they’ve been damaged, if they’ve had any cracks or buckles repaired or removed and whether or not they’ve been refurbished. Always check what marks are stamped into the reverse side of the spokes (should be the manufacturers mark, part no., wheel spec details - width, diameter and offset - and TUV, ABE or JWL approval / certification mark if they’ve been safety tested). Bear in mind that with diamond cut alloys, there’s a limit to the number of times they can be refurbished - usually no more than twice. This is because the refurbishment process involves re-cutting the face of the wheel on a lathe which removes a layer of metal. More than two refurbs can result in too much metal being removed, and the structural integrity of the wheel can be compromised.

Also bear in mind that the wheel load capabilities of any replacement wheels you fit need to capable of supporting the weight of the car they’re fitted to. If the axle load of your car exceeds the load capability of the wheels, you’ll be putting extra stress and strain on the wheels that might cause them to buckle or crack. You may also invalidate your insurance. If you buy new wheels from reputable sellers, they should only offer to sell you wheels where the spec and load capability are suitable for your car.

If you do fit different wheels, this is considered to be a modification for insurance purposes, so you’ll need to inform your insurer.