Flat tyre - wheel problem?

[feetn2veg]

Hi Guys

Mine's a 16 year old 2.0 Hdi.

Took wheel off to see why tyre went flat and found nothing wrong with valve, tyre or rim when I dunked it a bit at a time in a trough. Puzzled I tried again but decided it would be easier to handle in a deeper container. Good thing I did because this time I found that the wheel itself was leaking – not the rim but nearer the centre (the valley between the two yellow blobs in photo).

Never heard of this in a steel wheel before. Obviously it's well corroded but to perforate in just 16 years is surprising.

Do you think I can have a tube put in or does it mean a replacement wheel?

Grateful for your thoughts on this.

[Mrwilson]

I'd have a look inside first before deciding. It wouldn't be hard to sort but to do it properly, sand blast, weld, paint etc. would probably be dearer than a second hand, decent steel rim. Or indeed a set of alloys with tyres.
I'd not be comfortable just sticking a tube in it as a permanent fix.

[cancunia]

How much is a used wheel?

[Pedronicus]

TBH, if all the wheels have as much rust on 'em I wouldn't be happy driving the vehicle at all. If one has started to break down the other three can't be far behind.

[ffrenchie]

I'd look for replacement wheels if it was mine.

[feetn2veg]

Thanks for your responses.

Unable to find a used wheel nearby so I'll be getting a new one (around £40, not too bad). There's not so much corrosion on the other wheels.

This car, or shed if you prefer, is mainly used for shifting rubble and tree prunings (a LOT of both) to the recycling centre 2 miles away. I just need to keep it on the road for a bit longer to finish the jobs. It's been a fantastic workhorse for me, never short of power when needed. 

I intend to replace it with a newer series Berlingo. I suppose I'd better leave my diesel years behind and go petrol. Will I be disappointed?