6 Tips on Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wheels for Your Car

There are plenty of good reasons to swap out the wheels on your ride. Whether you're looking for a sportier style, superior performance, or a smoother ride, changing the wheels can totally change the character of your ride for the better. But you'll need to know a few things to select quality wheels that'll work properly on your vehicle.

Aftermarket wheels can really make a car stand out from the crowd. But with so many different styles and sizes to choose from, how do you know which ones are right for your car? Here are six things you need to know before you buy aftermarket wheels:

1. Make Sure the Wheels Fit Your Car

The first thing you need to do is ensure the wheels you're considering will actually fit your car. That means checking the bolt pattern, wheel diameter and width, and tire size.

Bolt pattern: The bolt pattern is the number of lug nuts on the wheel and the distance between them. You'll need to know this to ensure the wheels will fit over your car's brake calipers and hub.

Wheel diameter and width: The wheel's diameter is the distance from one side of the wheel to the other. The width is the distance from the inside of the wheel to the outside. It's important to get wheels that are the same diameter as your current ones, but you can usually go up or down a few inches on the width without issue. Just be aware that wider wheels may not fit in your car's wheel well and could rub when you turn.

Tire size: The size of the tire you'll need will be determined by the size of the wheel. You can usually find this information on the side of your current tires. Once you know the size, you can buy new tires to match.

2. Choose the Right Offset 

The offset of a wheel is the distance from the wheel's center line to the mounting surface. It's important to choose the right offset, so the wheel sits properly in the wheel well and doesn't rub on suspension components or the body of the car. 

3. Consider Wheel Weight

The weight of the wheel is important for two reasons. First, heavier wheels can negatively affect performance by making the car harder to accelerate and brake. Second, heavier wheels put more stress on suspension components, which could lead to premature wear.

4. Decide on a Wheel Material

The two most popular materials for aftermarket wheels are aluminum and cast aluminum. Cast aluminum is stronger than aluminum, but both materials are strong enough for most cars and trucks. Forged aluminum wheels are even stronger, but they're also more expensive. Steel is a less expensive option, but it's also heavier and less durable than aluminum.

5. Choose the Right Finish

Aftermarket wheels are available in a wide range of finishes, from polished aluminum to matte black. The right finish is a matter of personal preference, but it's also important to consider how easy the finish will be to maintain. 

6. Ensure the Wheels Are Load-Rated 

All aftermarket wheels must be load-rated, which means they're strong enough to support the car's weight. Most aftermarket wheels are designed for passenger cars, which means they're strong enough for most trucks and SUVs. However, if you have a heavy-duty truck or SUV, you'll need to ensure the wheels you choose are rated for the extra weight. 

Conclusion

There are a few things to remember when choosing aftermarket wheels for your car. First, make sure that the wheels you choose are the correct size and fit for your car. Second, choose a wheel that is made of high-quality materials and construction. Third, be sure to factor in the cost of the wheels when making your decision. And finally, make sure you are happy with your decision before you make a purchase.

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