A vehicle wheel (12) of lightweight alloy is provided with a replaceable beadseat protector (20) which protects the beadseat area (14) of the rim of the wheel from tire abrasion and chafing and subsequent corrosion. When formed of organic resin material, the beadseat protector (20) also reduces transfer of heat through the beadseat area of the wheel and the associated tire. The beadseat protector (20) can be removed and replaced periodically as required. The beadseat protector (20) may be constructed from a variety of materials including ferrous and non-ferrous metals and plastics. It is preferably prepared from fiber-reinforced organic resin which is premolded to the desired internal and external contours for the intended application. The wear protector is sealingly affixed to the beadseat area against rotation relative to the wheel rim, by bonding or by mechanical interference.