Swapping rims on your car can be rewarding, giving your vehicle a new look and potentially improving its performance. However, it's crucial to understand the do's and don'ts to avoid damage to your car or injury to yourself.
Today we share an extensive list of do’s and don’ts of swapping your alloy wheels.
Do your research: Before buying new rims, verify their fitment for your specific car model and year. This includes
Bolt Pattern (PCD): This specifies the number of lug nuts and the diameter of the circle they form. It MUST match your car's existing wheels. Incorrect bolt patterns can lead to catastrophic wheel failure.
Wheel Offset (ET): This measures the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. Incorrect offset can cause rubbing against the suspension, brakes, or fenders. Slightly different offsets might be acceptable, but significant deviations are risky.
Center Bore Diameter: This is the hole in the center of the wheel that fits over the hub. It should be the correct size, or use hub-centric rings to ensure a proper fit. A too-small center bore is dangerous; a too-large one might not be.
Wheel Diameter: This is the overall diameter of the wheel (e.g., 17", 18", 19"). This influences tyre size selection and overall vehicle height.
Wheel Width: This affects tyre choice and the overall stance of the vehicle. Improper width can lead to tyre rubbing or instability.
Check tyre Size: The tyre size you choose must be compatible with your new rims. The tyre sidewall will specify the proper size, typically expressed as something like "225/45R17." Using the wrong size tyre can severely impact your speedometer, odometer, handling, and potentially damage your vehicle. Consult a tyre size calculator to ensure compatibility with your new rims.
Use the correct lug nuts: Use only lug nuts specifically designed for your new rims and car. Different lug nuts have different lengths and thread pitches. Using incorrect lug nuts can lead to loose wheels and potential accidents.
Balance your wheels: After mounting tyres on the new rims, have them professionally balanced. Unbalanced wheels can cause vibrations at certain speeds, affecting handling and comfort.
Inspect regularly: After installing new rims and tyres, regularly inspect the lug nuts to ensure they remain tight.
Don't guess about fitment: Don't assume that rims will fit your car just because they look similar or are advertised for your car's model year. Verify all specifications mentioned above.
Don't use the wrong lug nuts: Using incorrect lug nuts is extremely dangerous and can lead to wheel detachment while driving.
Don't hand-tighten lug nuts: Never hand-tighten lug nuts. Use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque. This information is usually found in your car's owner's manual or online.
Don't over tighten lug nuts: Over-tightening can damage the wheel studs, while under-tightening can lead to loose wheels.
Don't ignore rubbing: If your new rims and tyres rub against any part of the car (suspension, brakes, fenders), it's a serious problem. You might need wheel spacers (use with caution and consult a professional), different offset rims, or smaller tyres. Continuing to drive with rubbing can damage components.
Don't neglect wheel balancing: Ignoring wheel balancing can lead to vibrations, premature tyre wear, and discomfort.
Don't use damaged rims: Never use rims that are bent, cracked, or otherwise damaged. This is a serious safety hazard.
Don't modify your vehicle without checking local laws: Some modifications, including wheel and tyre changes, might not be street-legal in your area.
Also read :- What's the Difference Between OEM and Aftermarket Wheels?
By carefully following the do's and avoiding the don'ts, you can safely and successfully swap rims on your car and enjoy a new look and potentially improved performance. At Apollo Vredestein we always recommend getting professional advice from a tyre expert before making any modifications to your wheels or tyres. Because, ignoring the basics of wheel and tyre changes can lead to reduced performance, bad ride quality, and in some cases, safety hazards for the driver and the passengers.
