recent experience with Exel wheels / wheelmax.com

[DDS_Racer]

WOW, HOLY SH!!!T. I did a google search of Exel wheels and i had no idea I was the only guy that has been screwed by wheelmax. It's a friggin' epidemic: those bastards are screwing everybody.

Hi guys, i just registered today so i can speak about my experiences on wheelmax. i own a modded 350z and last november i bought some wheels from wheel max thinking i was going to get a good deal. boy, was i wrong.

my story is posted on my350z.com, but here is the link: http://my350z.com/forum/showthread.php?t=153061

anyway guys, 8 mos. later and those f$%kers never gave me back my money that they owed me for their mistake on my order. so all in all i paid for their mistakes and their fraud on my order. Oh, and this is icing on the cake, now my wheels are starting to flake. im just glad i came across this forum b/c i easily get into the triple digits in my Z. Now i now that these wheels are volatile and not too be trusted. I even went so far as to call a miami consumer lawyer but the whole damn thing started to drag and i lost energy cause i felt like i was fighting an uphill battle.

I say this b/c their customer service is run by a lady who is a major four letter explitive that starts with a C (lydia)! And the owner/manager (diego i think is his name) is a douche that started arguing with me and never even listened to a word i said. he claimed the whole thing was my fault.

WARNING: WHEEL MAX EMPLOYEES ARE CON ARTIST!!! This is not an exaggeration. they completely frauded me and i paid literally twice in time and money trying to fix their **** ups.

I am planning on purchasing a set of SSR GT3's which are the real thing. It's expensive, but you can't put a price on your safety. sweet3rdgen, i'm just glad you're well and not too seriously hurt.

[sweet3rdgen]

I am looking into having a lab do a stress test on the remains of the rim. It all depends on how cost prohibitive it is.

I was hoping Banky would contact me again and try to provide some kind of customer service, but it looks as though the motis operandi of Wheel Max is to ignore the person and they will go away. Now I am looking at persuing litigation. I was hoping to avoid that.

Can't say I didn't give them opportunity

[jgauspohl]

I am looking into having a lab do a stress test on the remains of the rim. It all depends on how cost prohibitive it is.

I was hoping Banky would contact me again and try to provide some kind of customer service, but it looks as though the motis operandi of Wheel Max is to ignore the person and they will go away. Now I am looking at persuing litigation. I was hoping to avoid that.

Can't say I didn't give them opportunity

It is very obvious that they are at fault. I hope you have documents of everything...including phone calls and such. A judge...even if he is knowledgeable or not is going to know by that pic of the wheel that the company is at fault and is selling faulty products for which they should be held liable for. I too do not want a "sponsor" like that to be selling to this community...if it were an individual selling faulty merchandise everyone would know and action would be taken...so why should a big company such as wheelmax/exel be any different. Honestly instances like this is what makes me glad I either stick with OEM or a "reputable/more expensive" company...glad you're alright man that could have been fatal.

[sweet3rdgen]

It is very obvious that they are at fault. I hope you have documents of everything...including phone calls and such. A judge...even if he is knowledgeable or not is going to know by that pic of the wheel that the company is at fault and is selling faulty products for which they should be held liable for. I too do not want a "sponsor" like that to be selling to this community...if it were an individual selling faulty merchandise everyone would know and action would be taken...so why should a big company such as wheelmax/exel be any different.

It may be obvious to you and me but a court will need more "undeniable" proof. If I go to court with what I have now I may or may not win. If I get laboratory proof how can they argue?

And they get away with it BECAUSE they advertise on forums. The forums have newbies everyday. Those newbies see the ad and shop because they want to be accepted in the community and they equate the two.

And what will happen with this thread is it will become old news, slowly dropping down the pages until it is forgotten. And that is what Wheel Max is hoping for, for me and my "problem" to go away. They won't handle this because they know that they don't have to. They will lose me as a customer but they will gain 100s more by adverstising on this forum and others like it. I may be able to convince a few others to purchase elsewhere but that is all.

And we are only fooling ourselves if we think NICO will ask them not to sponsor anymore. Wheel Max is money, it is income.

[whiterps13]

I agree with everything except your last sentance. Greg doesnt want a sponsor that doesnt stand behind the porduct they sell. Have you been in contact with him about this isuue?

[AZhitman]

And we are only fooling ourselves if we think NICO will ask them not to sponsor anymore. Wheel Max is money, it is income.

I just LOVE how people pull assumptions outta their a$$es.

Integrity > money for us. Always has, always will. You'd know that if you'd been here longer. If it were all about the money, I wouldn't have dropped $6K on the event in ATL and another $3K on NICOfest. Think about it.

Based upon WheelMax's lack of response to me regarding this issue, we're dropping them as a sponsor effective 9/30/06.

So I think you owe an apology.

[AZhitman]

BTW, the only other argument I'd have with your line of reasoning:

The US has no "standards" for wheel strength or durability. As far as I know, Germany is the only country with regulations like that.

So, to assume that you should get "equally safe" wheels regardless of price (Homey-G Spinners vs. Forged HRE's) is a fallacy.

Think a Daewoo Leganza is as safe as a BMW 750il? You get what you pay for.

Don't buy cheap wheels.

[jgauspohl]

I just LOVE how people pull assumptions outta their a$$es.

Integrity > money for us. Always has, always will. You'd know that if you'd been here longer. If it were all about the money, I wouldn't have dropped $6K on the event in ATL and another $3K on NICOfest. Think about it.

Based upon WheelMax's lack of response to me regarding this issue, we're dropping them as a sponsor effective 9/30/06.

So I think you owe an apology.

props to NICO...I've been here long enough to know this is a great community THAT LISTENS to it's members I had no doubt action would be taken. THANKS FOR PROVIDING SUCH A SITE AS TO WHERE I CAN LEARN MORE, SELL, BUY, AND of course the occasional bull****ting. as for sweet3rdgen now ya know...no hard feelings...but NICO is the best ...wooot wooot! lmfao

[Florida240sx]

I'm glad that Banky never got back to me on my order...... Would of been another thing to add to my KA-T problem list...

[Eikon]

Based upon WheelMax's lack of response to me regarding this issue, we're dropping them as a sponsor effective 9/30/06.

So I think you owe an apology.

NICOwned!

To be sure.. poor customer service and a poor product are not tolerated by the boss!

My $.02 on the issue if I may.

The difference between high end (Volk for example) and low end (Exel for example) is not only in the product itself, but also in the quality control and manufacturing process.

The average Exel wheel is safe. It is not as well made as a high end wheel, but it should be safe for a very long time! So, I don't really think they are junk.

But, the standards to which the wheels are manufactured are vastly different and can be the source of some extremely shoddy units. Exel is probably not too picky over the batches of aluminum and other materials that it uses to make wheels. In order to keep costs down, they will clearly work with suppliers who "keep costs down". Most likely this wheel came from a really bad shipment of alloy. As such, it failed miserably.

You won't see this from Volk because they demand much higher quality materials.

[DDS_Racer]

when i was going through my bad exerience with wheelmax.com, i had asked the idiot sales man who sold me the wheels in the first place if wheelmax had ever been sued and he said "yes". but he also stated that wheelmax has never lost a case.

i honestly think you have a great case. who knows? maybe people who have sue wheelmax in the past did not adequately prepare for their case and/or had insufficient evidence. i think the lab test results will prove definitely that wheelmax is at fault. man i hope wheelmax loses big time.

to this day i am still angry for how they treated me and took my money (and now my wheels are flaking off clear coat). again, i even tried to sue but it seems like no lawyer wants to mess with something that to them seems petty. now if i got injured like you did i would have an army of lawyers wanting to sue wheelmax since the ambulance chasers are always hungry for work. good luck bro.

[AZhitman]

^ How would WheelMax be "at fault"? You guys watch too much TV...

They sold a wheel. The wheel failed. We know nothing about why, how, or the circumstances surrounding it, other than the word of the owner.

Anyone know for sure if the driver hit a pothole? Do we know if the tires were properly inflated? Was the wheel of a proper load rating for the car? How about the tire? Was the driver exceeding the speed limit? What did he use to clean the wheel? Anything caustic? Were the lugs torqued properly? Was the suspension maintained properly? Was there debris in the road?

People are so damn sue-happy it's hilarious.

What's he gonna sue for? Emotional trauma? Online pwning? He's out the cost of a cheap wheel.

WheelMax (although I'm not defending them) probably can't be bothered with such trivialities - They should have at least replied with an effort to help, but the original poster should have gone straight to the manufacturer.

Hell, someone starts talking "lawsuit", I wouldn't answer their calls either. They know you're either pissed and irrational or some Intarweb blowhard who doesn't understand the way the Court system works.

[whiterps13]

Greg, I knew you wouldnt stand for **** like this. You have morals, unlike most other 'business' owners. I commend you for putting us over your wallet.

As far as sueing, dont waste your time. I cant tell you enough how I hate America for being such a sue happy society. So what you spilled your damned McDonalds coffee. What makes you think you deserve millions of dollars? Idiots...

[sweet3rdgen]

Greg, I owe you an apology and a thank you. It is not often that anyone has integrity today, I am thankful of a forum that does. And I am very sorry that I assumed anything about this forum. Please accept my apology a for my foolish assumption.

AZHitman, I contacted Wheel Max for two reasons. First, because they sold the product, and second, because there is no contact at Exel because they are part of Wheel Max.

As for your assumtions that I may have been partly at fault I can only say WTF? How could any of the possibilties you presented result in a rim shattering as this one has and why would I do anything like that to risk the car I have put so much effort into building and my life?

But let me ease your mind. I check my tire pressure every month (as everyone should) I was not speeding (I did not receive a citation, police were on scene). The suspension is fairly new and very well maintained. I use only quality cleaning products on my wheels (correct for type). There are no pothole or debris in the road, save a manhole cover that sticks up maybe .75".

When I contacted Wheel Max it was simply for answers. I did not remotely suggest a suit or even ask for reperations. I expected them to be courteous and responsive, instead I received brashness followed by being ignored. And as Greg has experienced customer service for them is not a priority. Even when it comes to a forum that they sponsor. I understand and appreciate your skepticism.

I never asked for them to be dropped as a sponsor (though I am glad and thankful that they were) I only wanted to warn people of possible danger. I felt it was my duty. If someone else would have bought Exel rims, and had a similar thing happen, they could have been hurt. I hope by my posting here I have done some good. That, in itself, is rewarding.

[AZhitman]

1) Greg, I owe you an apology and a thank you. It is not often that anyone has integrity today, I am thankful of a forum that does. And I am very sorry that I assumed anything about this forum. Please accept my apology a for my foolish assumption.

2) AZHitman, I contacted Wheel Max for two reasons. First, because they sold the product, and second, because there is no contact at Exel because they are part of Wheel Max.

3) As for your assumtions that I may have been partly at fault I can only say WTF? How could any of the possibilties you presented result in a rim shattering as this one has and why would I do anything like that to risk the car I have put so much effort into building and my life?

4) But let me ease your mind. I check my tire pressure every month (as everyone should) I was not speeding (I did not receive a citation, police were on scene). The suspension is fairly new and very well maintained. I use only quality cleaning products on my wheels (correct for type). There are no pothole or debris in the road, save a manhole cover that sticks up maybe .75".

1) Understood, accepted, appreciated.

2) I was not aware of that - My bad.

3) Just asking the questions an attorney would ask. It's the accident investigator in me.

4) Awesome. No more cheap wheels. Even if you have to buy them used, buy GOOD wheels or OEM's.

A lot of people overlook OEM take-offs, but they're among the best you can buy. Don't forget wheels from other Nissan products when considering wheels for your 240.

[DDS_Racer]

HITMAN,

Your questions have to be a joke, right? Let’s examine this:

Anyone know for sure if the driver hit a pothole?

Yes, because forget drifting…traveling through potholes is a way more exhilarating experience.

Do we know if the tires were properly inflated?

Yes. He over inflated his tires to over 85 psi so he could adversely affect vehicle maneuverability, making the ride harsher, and therefore putting himself in harm from a blowout.

Was the wheel of a proper load rating for the car?

No. He drives an H2 Hummer and prefers the look of undersized tires and wheels.

What did he use to clean the wheel? Anything caustic?

After soap and water, he uses hydrochloric and sulfuric acid in a two-step process. It gives the rims and wheels that “just washed look!”

Was there debris in the road?

Yes. The OP ran over several boulders and logs before realizing this was affecting his gas mileage.

What's he gonna sue for? Emotional trauma? Online pwning? He's out the cost of a cheap wheel. WheelMax (although I'm not defending them) probably can't be bothered with such trivialities - They should have at least replied with an effort to help, but the original poster should have gone straight to the manufacturer.

I don’t believe the cost of the cheap wheel is the principle of the matter. The guy could have been killed, yet despite your callousness, he takes the time to warn readers about the inherent risks of Exel wheels which he bought from wheelmax. If wheelmax knows, from prior anecdotes of similar experiences, that these wheels have an elemental risk of malfunction, then THEY ARE TOTALLY RESPONSIBLE!!!

[maxnix]

If you think you can buy a Benz at a Yugo price, you will be burned many times over.

Check and see what is on racing machinery. It ain't the show stuff. Most racing wheel manufacturer's will only sell well made wheels under their name. Some like Enkei are all over the map, and that can help you to determine to some extent how good a particular model is. by knowing where it is made.

I would suggest Tire Rack and another sponsor, IoS, for consideration. One might look at how much OEM wheels cost from a dealer to get an idea about what the costs of aftermarket wheels that meet or exceed OEM specifications will cost. Wheels are also rated for strength. Don't buy if it iisn't on the wheel. Both Germany and Japan have government wheel rating standards.

[superDorifto]

you are a tool....every question that greg posted was a legitamit one, if you want to start talking lawsuit, those are JUST the type of questions you should be asking.... and your sarcasm does much to illustrate that you dont understand the point of this thread.

[AZhitman]

HITMAN,

Your questions have to be a joke, right? Let’s examine this:

The only joke here, Son, is you, DDS Ricer.

You a Certified Accident Investigator?

You work for the highest Court in the State for 7 years?

You ever testify as an expert witness in a multi-million dollar automotive collision case?

Nope?

Then STFU.

[whiterps13]

/thread

[naed240sx]

I'll be honest, I'm not fully in support of Greg on this point. Like the original poster said, NO wheel should fail like that, regardless of price. He is lucky to only be out the cost of a cheap wheel. He could have easily lost his life due to a wheel shattering in such a way.

Yes, it is true that nobody should expect to see the same quality and strength in cheap wheels as with expensive ones, but again, NO wheel should fail like that. The hub BROKE AWAY FROM THE BARREL. That is unheard of.

Wheelmax, as a retailer, should refund him the cost of the wheels. Yes, it is not wheelmax's fault that it happened, but companies should stand behind the product they sell. In order to not be loosing out, they can then go the manufacturer, and get a refund for the cost amount of the wheels. The way I see it, that is the only option here, other than wheelmax declaring the wheel as a manufacturer's defect and sending another free of charge.

[sweet3rdgen]

I didn't view AZHitmans questions as jokes. I saw them as legitimate questions. He is correct when he said that all you have is my word. I cannot give you any more unless you were there. The pictures do speak volumes however.

Greg tried contacting Wheel Max and received the same treatment I received, being ignored. He did not openly trust me, he did research.

I learned a valuable lesson in this about getting what you pay for. I only hope that many others can learn from my mistakes.

DDSRacer, there is no reason for sarcasm. I think most of here on this forum are here to meet and possibly help others who share our love of cars.

Yes, Wheel Max should stand behind the product they sell, as should any vendor. Apparently they choose not to. If, and that is if, I choose to pursue litigation it will be to force them to be aware of the quality of the products they are selling. It will be to ensure that others will be safe when buying from them.

[Black on Gold]

Looks like a dinner plate to me and you just dropped it on the floor

[AZhitman]

For the record, I never said the OP wasn't due a refund, a replacement, or some sort of compensation.

Please re-read my post.

Those questions are the SAME questions an attorney would ask in a product liability case.

Being ill-prepared to answer those questions on the stand = a whimpering plaintiff, a pissed-off judge and you STILL have to pay your attorney (and possibly the Defendant's attorney fees.

Thought and logic > emotion.

Ironic that I'd be pointing that out to some folks.

[Black on Gold]

Getting in an arguement with Greg is like arguing with a woman, your never going to win

[whiterps13]

Even if you win, he still has the power to ban you. And hes not afraid to use it.

[DDS_Racer]

you are a tool...every question that greg posted was a legitamit one

1) LEGITAMIT is spelled LEGITMATE. Learn that before you call someone a tool.

and your sarcasm does much to illustrate that you dont understand the point of this thread.

2) If go back and read my original post on this thread you’ll learn that I’ve dealt with these Wheelmax pricks before. I completely understand what this thread is about.

[DDS_Racer]

HITMAN,

I understand that you have been helpful in bringing forth some resolution to the matter. Just thought you were another prick who when someone shares their experiences in a public forum respond with callous, unsupportive remarks. Yes you might have been asking the “right” attorney questions, but your approach came across as: “I presume to know something about accident investigation so that gives me the right to act like a total ***.” Obviously you took it personal, not my motive.

BTW, DDS Ricer? …good to know you’ve got the intelligence of a goat.

[sweet3rdgen]

Guys, arguing and namecalling is not intelligent debate. Hitman asked qualified questions. DDS offered support from shared experience. Why the hostility? It produces nothing.

I feel like Rodney King..."can't we all just get along?"

I know even considering legal action is a losing proposition when ill prepared. That is why I won't even consider it without substantial proof.

I appreciate all that has been said on this thread (except the pointless namecalling). I truly appreciate all that greg has done. I never expected that. I applaud Greg for not blindly believing me and asking questions that deserve to be asked.

I do not put a lot of weight on what salesman says. Do you honestly think a salesman is going to say "yeah, we have had to pay out before"? Also I had a friends father die in a plane crash many years ago. His mother went to sue Cesna. Found out that there had been 8 previous law suits for the same thing, all 8 settled out of court. They were able to say that they had never been successfully sued as well.

All I ask (and have asked all along) is that everyone considers what I have posted and uses that information to make intelligent decisions when purchasing from any vendor. Also that this information be shared to hopefully save another from what has happened to me. I do not want to see somebody get injured from a similar accident, which maybe my sharing this could have prevented.

[AZhitman]

If Rodney King was here, I'd ban his a$$.

You misinterpreted me all along. I DO know quite a bit about the topic, when no one else in the thread did, so I took the opportunity to shine a bright light on a dimly-lit subject.

If that makes me a prick, well, then, wrap me in latex and take me home to meet your sister.

Intellect is apparently in the eye of the beholder. I'll take that as a compliment.

BAAA-A-A-A-A-A-A-AAAA!