@ghostbustertab; I’m assuming that you’ve not owned your car from new, otherwise you’d have been aware your wheel had been welded. If you’ve only very recently bought your car, the dealer may make a goodwill gesture by contributing towards the cost of a new wheel if you make a specific request. However, in view of their current response (‘it happens, so tough luck,’), it seems unlikely they’ll be willing to
help.
Cracks in alloys can safely be repaired by welding, but I don’t know if a previously welded crack can safely be welded a second time. It might be worth seeking the advice of a reputable alloy wheel refurbishment company such as Lepsons (
www.Lepsons.com) who do offer a wheel welding repair service. Lessons will only perform a weld repair where they consider the wheel will be safe for everyday road use after it’s been repaired. However, I don’t think I’d want an existing repair repaired a second time; I’d be looking to replace the wheel.
In the absence of a repair, your options would be;
- Sourcing a used wheel to replace your damaged one. However, there’s no guarantee a used replacement hasn’t been welded or straightened if it’s suffered impact (pothole) damage - if it has, you may have the same issue that you currently have - leaking air.
- Buy a brand new replacement wheel. As @Legojon has suggested, you may be able to get one at a discounted price from the forum sponsors, or check for other Seat dealers with online shops who may offer genuine Seat products at discounted prices.
- Replace all four wheels with a different set if you fancy a change; a potentially costly option, especially if you change the size of the wheels, as new tyres would then be required.
In your position, I’d be going for the second option.