How to Select Wheel Rims

For some drivers, the biggest concern with their car's tire rims (or wheels) is appearance. But an owner's choice of rims really affects the car's performance, too. New wheels run upwards of $100 apiece. If you're replacing a damaged rim, consider buying a used one.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Think about buying alloy wheels if you do a lot of driving in the mountains or in stop-and-go traffic. Some alloy wheels are designed to encourage cool air flow over the brakes to prevent overheating. The alloy itself can help dissipate heat, too.

2. "Plus-size" your rims if you want to improve performance and add a sportier look. With a larger inner diameter, you'll find steering is more responsive and your car holds the road better. Purchasing rims that are one or two sizes larger than what you have means you'll have to buy new tires as well. While the outside diameter of the tire your car uses should remain the same, the inner diameter--wrapped around the rim--needs to be bigger to fit a bigger rim.

3. Look for rims that aren't too heavy for your vehicle. Big, steel rims on a small car can decrease handling ability. Heavy wheels are unsprung weight--not supported by your car's suspension-- and therefore useless for smoothing out the ride or improving balance in driving maneuvers.

Tips & Warnings

• Rims come in a staggering array of designs. For something spectacular, skip the tire store and check out custom-tuned car shows and specialty catalogs.
• Be sure any wheels you buy have a maximum-load rating compatible with your vehicle.
• Make sure your car's bolt pattern matches the new rims you're purchasing.

[mtuprince]

on 11/30/2007 Please keep in mind that when purchasing wheels, three things matter:
1. bolt pattern
2. offset
3. hub size(not all aftermarket wheels are hubcentric with the vehicle).

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on 2/25/2006 Aluminum is a great alloy if it is made right. Most alloy wheels are gravity cast. Although these are the cheapest, they are also heavier and more prone to bending. Look for a wheel that is either low-pressure cast or forged. They will cost more, but it will save weight and add strength. Forged magnesium is the lightest and often the strongest. It's also the most expensive. Keep in mind, sizing up more than two inches will actually add weight to the wheels, so plus-sizing should be done conservatively. Go for a wider rather than taller wheel.

on 12/20/2005 When sizing wheels, it is also important to purchase a wheel with the correct offset. The offset may be measured when viewing the backside of the wheel by placing a flat object such as a yardstick against the back of the wheel and measuring the distance between the yardstick and the surface that mates with the hub.

An incorrect offset will cause problems with steering and handling, and will be illegal if it causes the tire to stick out beyond the fender.