How to straighten a figure eight on a wheel: 5 proven methods and advice from professionals

Drivers often face this problem eights on a wheel - deformation of the rim, in which the disc loses its perfectly round shape and begins to “beat” when moving. This not only reduces ride comfort, but can also lead to serious consequences: uneven tire wear, vibrations in the steering wheel, and in extreme cases, loss of control. The reasons for the appearance of the figure eight are varied: from a banal collision with a hole to a factory defect or improper installation.

Many car owners immediately go to a tire shop, but you can straighten the figure eight on the wheel with your own hands - with the right tools and knowledge. In this article we will analyze all straightening methods: from simple (using a jack and hammer) to professional (using a special machine). You will also learn when DIY repairs are dangerous and when they are justified.

It is important to understand that not every eight can be restored. For example, severe deformations on alloy wheels often require complete replacement, while steel rims are more flexible. We will dwell in detail on the criteria by which you can determine whether it is worth undertaking repairs or whether it is better to buy a new disk.

Reasons for the appearance of the figure eight on the wheel

Eight - this is a local curvature of the rim, in which part of it moves inward or outward relative to the plane of rotation. The main reasons for this defect:

🔹 Hitting obstacles. Hitting a curb, hole or rails is the most common cause. Even a minor impact at high speed can deform the disc, especially if it is made of soft metal (such as aluminum alloy).

🔹 Incorrect bolt tightening. If the wheel is not secured evenly (for example, the bolts are tightened crosswise with different force), this creates stress in the rim and, over time, leads to its deformation.

🔹 Factory defect. Rarely, there are discs with an initially uneven geometry. This usually appears immediately after purchase or after a short period of use.

🔹 Excessive load. Overloading a car (especially when it comes to minibuses or SUVs) can lead to gradual bending of the rims.

🔹 Temperature deformations. Sudden temperature changes (for example, when driving on hot asphalt and then getting into a puddle) sometimes cause microcracks and bending in the metal.

🔹 Poor quality repairs. If the disc has already been corrected, but the procedure was performed unprofessionally, the figure eight may appear again after a short time.

To minimize the risk, regularly inspect your wheels for dents and check their balance. Even a small figure eight (1-2 mm) can get worse over time.

How to identify a figure eight on a wheel: signs and diagnosis

Rim deformation is not always visible to the naked eye. Here are the key signs that will help identify the problem:

✅ Vibration on the steering wheel. Particularly noticeable at speeds above 60 km/h. If the vibration increases during acceleration, this is a sure sign of a figure eight or imbalance.

✅ Uneven tire wear. If the tire has "spots" or wears off faster on one side, this may indicate a warped rim.

✅ Knocking or noises when driving. Sometimes the figure eight leads to the wheel starting to touch elements of the suspension or braking system.

✅ Visual defects. Inspect the rim for dents, scratches, or changes in geometry. Spin the wheel - if it "walks" from side to side, this is a clear sign.

For accurate diagnosis you can use laser level or special wheel runout indicator (sold in auto stores). A simple test will also help:

1. Raise the car on a jack so that the wheel is hanging in the air.
2. Rotate it by hand and look at the gap between the rim and the brake caliper.
3. If the gap changes (it increases, sometimes it decreases), then there is a figure eight.

Acceptable runout for most discs is no more than 0.5 mm. If the value is greater, editing is required.

Tools for straightening the figure eight on the wheel

Depending on the method you choose, you may need the following tools:

• 🔧 Jack - to lift the car.
• 🔨 Soft-faced hammer (rubber or wood) - so as not to damage the paintwork.
• 🔩 Crowbar or crowbar - to create leverage.
• 🛠️ Clamps or vice - for fixing the disk.
• 📏 Caliper or ruler - to measure runout.
• 🔥 Gas burner (for the thermal method) - heats the metal, making it more ductile.
• 🛡️ Protective gloves and glasses - Mandatory when working with metal.

For professional editing use disc rolling machine (for example, models from Hunter Engineering or Hofmann). If you plan to do repairs regularly, such a machine will pay for itself, but for one-time use it is better to rent or go to a workshop.

Also useful WD-40 lubricant or similar - it will help remove rust and make the straightening process easier.

How to make a homemade disc straightening machine?

To make a simple machine, you will need a metal frame, bearings for mounting the disk, a lever with an adjustable stop, and a runout indicator. Drawings can be found on specialized forums, but remember: homemade designs require precise calibration and are not always safe.

Methods for straightening a figure eight on a wheel: step-by-step instructions

There are several ways to eliminate the eight. The choice depends on the degree of deformation, the type of disc (steel or cast) and the available tools.

1. Straightening with a hammer (for steel wheels)

This is the simplest method and is suitable for minor deformations. Do not use it on cast or forged wheels - they can crack!

Step by step instructions:

1. Remove the wheel from the car and clean the dirt from the rim.
2. Place the disk on a flat surface (for example, a wooden board) with the deformed part facing up.
3. Gently tap the convex part of the figure eight with a hammer, starting at the edges and gradually moving towards the center.
4. Check the result periodically by spinning the disc and measuring the runout.
5. After editing, balance the wheel on the machine.

⚠️

Attention! Do not hit the disc too hard - this may cause microcracks. Use a wooden or rubber spacer between the hammer and the metal.

2. Straightening using a jack and pry bar

This method is suitable for more severe deformities. An assistant will be needed.

Algorithm of actions:

1. Place a jack near the deformed area.
2. Place a wooden block under the rim to avoid damaging the coating.
3. Place a pry bar between the jack and the disc.
4. Gently lift the jack, applying pressure to the figure eight. An assistant should monitor the process and stop the jack at the first sign of straightening.
5. Repeat the procedure until the runout decreases to an acceptable value.

📌 Critical: Do not apply force to the spokes of the cast wheel, as this may cause them to break.

3. Thermal straightening (for aluminum wheels)

Cast aluminum alloy wheels cannot be cold adjusted - they are fragile and can burst. Instead, heat is used.

Technology:

1. Heat the deformed area with a gas burner to a temperature 300-400°C (the metal should turn cherry color).
2. Gently press down on the convex part using a wooden block.
3. Allow the disc to cool naturally (do not cool with water!).
4. Check the geometry and repeat the procedure if necessary.

⚠️

Attention! Do not overheat the disc - this can change the structure of the metal and make it even more brittle. Work in a well-ventilated area, as toxic fumes are released when heated.

4. Editing on a machine (professional method)

If the figure eight is strong or the disc is expensive (for example, forged), it is better to contact a workshop where they use rolling machine. The process looks like this:

1. The disk is mounted on a machine that rotates it with high precision.
2. A special roller presses on the deformed area, gradually leveling the rim.
3. The process is controlled by a laser sensor that measures runout in real time.
4. After editing, the disk undergoes balancing.

The average cost of the service is from 1500 to 5000 rubles for one wheel, depending on the region and complexity of the work.

5. Straightening with a hydraulic press

For very severe deformations (for example, after a serious accident), a hydraulic press is used. This method requires experience and special equipment, so it is not used at home.

📊 Below is a table comparing methods:

Method	Disk type	Difficulty	Cost	Efficiency
Hammer	Steel	Low	0-500 rub.	For minor defects
Jack + pry bar	Steel, cast (carefully)	Average	0-1000 rub.	For medium deformations
Thermal straightening	Cast, forged	High	500-2000 rub.	For aluminum wheels
Machine	Any	Professional	1500-5000 rub.	Maximum accuracy
Hydraulic press	Any	Very high	3000-10000 rub.	For severe damage

When editing the figure eight is impossible or dangerous

Not all deformities can be restored. Here are the cases when it is better don't take risks and replace the disk:

🚫 Cracks or chips. If there is visible metal damage on the disc, straightening may make the problem worse. This is especially true for cast and forged wheels.

🚫 Severe corrosion. Rust weakens the metal, and if you try to straighten the disc, it may break.

🚫 Spoke deformation. If not only the rim, but also the spokes (especially on alloy wheels) are bent, restoration is almost impossible.

🚫 Large runout (more than 5 mm). Such deformations usually indicate serious damage to the metal structure.

🚫 Wheels with factory defects. If the figure eight appears on its own (without hitting), it is most likely a manufacturing defect. Editing here is pointless.

It is also not recommended to edit rims on cars with the system yourself. TPMS (tire pressure monitoring) as the sensors may be damaged.

⚠️

Attention! If you doubt your abilities, especially when it comes to cast or forged wheels, it is better to turn to professionals. Incorrect editing may result in disk destruction on the go, which is fraught with an accident.

Prevention of figure eights: how to avoid wheel deformation

The best repair is preventing the problem. Here are some tips to help keep your discs in perfect condition:

• 🚗 Avoid potholes and curbs. Try to avoid obstacles, especially at high speed.
• 🔧 Tighten the bolts correctly. Use a torque wrench and observe the tightening torque (indicated in the vehicle owner's manual).
• ⚖️ Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated or overinflated wheels increase the load on the discs.
• 🔄 Check balance regularly. Imbalance accelerates wear and can lead to deformation.
• 🛠️ Wash your wheels in winter. Salt and reagents cause corrosion, weakening the metal.
• 🚘 Don't overload the car. Excessive weight increases the stress on the wheels.

If you often drive on bad roads, consider installing rims with reinforced rim or tubeless tires with sidewall protection (for example, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV or Continental CrossContact LX2).

It is also useful to inspect the rims once a season for microcracks and dents. Early detection of the problem will save time and money on repairs.

Common mistakes when editing figure eight and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that aggravate the problem. Here are the most common ones:

🔴 Hitting too hard with a hammer. This can lead to cracks, especially on alloy wheels. Solution: Use a soft-faced hammer and apply light, targeted blows.

🔴 Editing by eye without measurements. Without precise runout control, you can overdo it and make a backwards figure eight. Solution: Use an indicator or caliper to take measurements.

🔴 Ignoring balancing after repair. Even a perfectly aligned disc requires balancing. Solution: after correction, be sure to visit a tire shop.

🔴 Working without protection. Metal splinters or burner splashes may cause harm. Solution: Always wear goggles and gloves.

🔴 Trying to fix a cracked disc. This is extremely dangerous - the disk may fall apart while moving. Solution: If there are cracks, replace only.

🔴 Using inappropriate tools. For example, an iron hammer for a cast disk or a jack without a gasket. Solution: match the tools to the disc type.

🔴 Disc material not taken into account. Steel and aluminum wheels require different approaches. Solution: Before editing, determine the material (usually indicated on the rim).

If you are unsure of your skills, practice on an old, unwanted wheel before attempting to repair the impeller.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about eights on wheels

Is it possible to drive with a figure eight on the wheel?

In the short term, yes, but it is fraught with consequences. The figure eight causes vibrations that destroy the suspension, wheel bearings and tie rods. Tire wear also accelerates. If the beating is strong (more than 3 mm), driving is dangerous - the disc may burst while driving.

How much does it cost to edit a figure eight in a workshop?

The cost depends on the region and type of disk:

• Steel disc: 800-2000 rub.
• Alloy wheel: 1500-4000 rub.
• Forged wheel: 3000-8000 rub.

The price usually includes diagnostics and balancing.

Is it possible to straighten a figure eight on a cast wheel without heating?

Theoretically it is possible, but extremely risky. Cast wheels are fragile, and cold straightening often leads to microcracks that grow over time. Heating makes aluminum more ductile and reduces the risk of damage. If you decide to edit without a torch, use minimal force and be sure to check the disc for cracks after repair.

How often do you need to check 8-wheel drives?

It is recommended to inspect the disks:

• After each strong impact (hitting a hole, curb).
• When changing tires seasonally.
• Every 20-30 thousand km mileage
• When vibrations appear on the steering wheel.

It is also useful to check the rims after long off-road trips.

Is it possible to make a disk straightening machine yourself?

Yes, but this requires skills in working with metal and accurate calculations. A homemade machine usually consists of:

• Metal frame with bearings for mounting the disk.
• Lever with adjustable stop.
• Runout indicator (you can use a dial indicator from a caliper).

Drawings and instructions can be found on forums (for example, Drive2 or Autolada.ru). However, remember that homemade machines are inferior to professional ones in terms of accuracy and safety.