Things to Know about After Market Wheels
Perhaps your car looks good but not spectacular. Even when you have it all cleaned up, it just doesn’t look right any more. You could spend $30,000 or more on a new vehicle or you can spend far less for a set of after market wheels and tires. This can dramatically improve your car’s appearance and performance. Here are some important things to know when you shop for the right rims.
Steel or Alloy Wheels?
Many of the finest after market wheels today are made from special metal alloys. Of course you always have the option of choosing steel. Steel wheels are cost effective and if you buy the right wheel covers, you can have a great looking car.
Steel wheels may not be the best choice for aftermarket rims. Steel is heavier than alloy and when you need high performance wheels, steel usually falls short.
Alloy wheels are light and very strong. Many are made for performance and will give your car eye appeal. You can buy alloy rims in large sizes and many are designed to allow for brake clearance.
Performance
Alloy wheels are better for performance but some are much better than others. If you have a large car, you’ll want to go with the lightest possible after market wheels, for greater performance. Also, spoke type wheels will give you maximum heat dissipation.
The Importance of Size
Perhaps you would like to install 24 inch tires and wheels on your midsized vehicle. This will give the car a unique look. However, your car can only handle certain size rims and tires and you might need to make changes in the suspension.
Going too large on after market wheels, can affect vehicle performance. For example, it may be harder to take corners at higher speeds. When you buy large wheels, you might want to go with a smaller sidewall on your new tires, to eliminate possible suspension problems.
To Stagger or Not to Stagger
Running wider tires on the rear is regaining popularity, and this is often done for better traction as well as appearance. In fact, many after market wheels are available in special staggered sets with two of the rims as much as two sizes wider.
Where to Buy Your Wheels
You can find a number of places to purchase after market wheels. However, you may save a great deal of money when you go with an online source. Some online dealers occasionally offer special promotions for free shipping and tire mounting with your purchase, to save additional money.
