Protecting the alloy wheels of a Smart: diameters, models and advice

Protecting Smart alloy wheels is an essential reflex: these city cars navigate tight spaces where kerbs and edges are ever-present.

Smart fits aluminium alloy wheels as standard across virtually all current trim levels. A scratch on an original alloy wheel rim can cost between €150 and €350 depending on the finish and the retailer — not to mention the vehicle downtime. Having a set of AlloyGator protectors fitted comes to around €99 including fitting at a network approved fitter, which is a fraction of the cost of a single repair.

Smart alloy wheels: common diameters and finishes by model

The three most widespread models on the French market — the #1, the #3 and the #5 — feature different alloy wheel diameters and widths, which directly determines the choice of the right alloy wheel protector.

Two-tone or polished finishes are the most susceptible to scratches: the slightest contact with a kerb edge leaves an immediately visible white mark. On the 20- or 21-inch rims of the #5, the tyre sidewall is reduced and offers no mechanical cushioning against lateral impacts.

Why Smart cars are particularly exposed

The compact dimensions are these vehicles' greatest asset in the city — and the primary source of alloy wheel rim exposure. Smart drivers squeeze into spaces where others give up, which multiplies manoeuvres close to obstacles. Underground car parks with raised kerbs, parallel parking on slopes, and cycle lanes bordered by concrete kerbs are the most damaging situations.

There is also an economic factor: Smart charges high manufacturer prices for its original alloy wheels. A 19-inch #3 rim in polished black regularly exceeds €300 per unit as an official replacement part, excluding labour for removal and rebalancing.

AlloyGator on a Smart: fitting, compatibility and colours

The AlloyGator profile is inserted between the tyre and the alloy wheel rim during a straightforward tyre remount. Fitting takes approximately one hour for all four wheels at a network approved fitter. The dedicated Smart alloy wheel protection page lists the references compatible with the 18, 19, 20 and 21-inch diameters fitted as standard on the #1, the #3 and the #5.

The online colour simulator lets you choose from several shades — black, silver, red, blue, yellow — before placing your order. On a #3 with matt anthracite alloy wheels, the black profile blends seamlessly into the rim; on a two-tone #5, the silver grey shade extends the polished lip without any visual break.

The AlloyGator set includes four profiles and the complete fitting kit. For a risk-free installation on valuable alloy wheels, visiting an specialist experienced with finely machined aluminium profiles remains the best option — that expertise applies equally to neighbouring premium brands such as Audi or BMW, whose alloy wheels present similar constraints.

FAQ

Is the AlloyGator profile compatible with the 21-inch alloy wheels of the Smart #5?

Yes. AlloyGator offers profiles suited to diameters ranging from 13 to 24 inches. The 21-inch alloy wheels fitted to certain trim levels of the #5 fall within this range. The profile width is selected according to the exact rim profile; the dedicated model page details the references to choose from.

What is the total cost of an AlloyGator set fitted on a Smart #1 or #3?

The set (four profiles + kit) is ordered online, and fitting at a network approved fitter is charged at around €99 for all four wheels, taking approximately one hour. This amount covers the entire fitting, with no surcharge for the standard 18- or 19-inch diameters of the #1 and #3.

Does the profile withstand repeated impacts in underground car parks?

The profile is manufactured from high-resistance nylon. It absorbs repeated contacts with kerbs and bollards without cracking or coming loose. Should localised wear occur after several years of intensive use, it can be replaced on its own — leaving the alloy wheel itself completely intact.