Beyond Aesthetics: Things To Guide Your Choice Of New Rims

Choosing new rims for your car is more than just about aesthetics. While having a flashy set of wheels can definitely up your car's style game, there are other important factors you should consider when selecting new rims.

Your rim selection can impact your vehicle's performance, safety, and fuel economy. So before you hit the stores or start browsing online, here are three considerations that can help you choose the right rims for your car.

Rim Size Matters

Your car's rim size can significantly affect your ride experience. The rims usually dictate the type and size of the tires that best suit your car. Smaller rims can provide better fuel efficiency but may not be able to accommodate certain tire sizes. On the other hand, larger rims can provide improved grip and stability but are heavier, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Smaller rims often leave more room for adequate tire sidewalls for better handling and a smoother ride. Bigger rims, on the other hand, can enhance your car's style and improve its visual appeal. But they can often make your car's ride experience rougher and really do not handle potholes or rough terrain as well.

Make sure you choose a size according to your car's manufacturer specifications to suit your driving style. The manufacturer-recommended size should be the minimum you consider when shopping for rims.

Rim Material Impacts Performance and Durability

The material used to construct your rims is very important in determining both performance and durability. Alloy wheels are popular due to their strength and lightweight, and they tend to have a long lifespan. Steel rims are the most affordable option. They can also be durable but are typically heavier than alloy wheels.

Carbon fiber rims offer the highest level of performance and agility but come with a hefty price tag. So make sure to analyze your driving habits and route conditions and balance between your budget and the rim material that fits your preferences.

Check Your Bolt Pattern and Offset

Before you get new rims, you should also take your car's bolt pattern and offset into consideration. Bolt patterns are the lug nuts' number, size, and spacing that attach the wheel to the vehicle.

A wheel with an incorrect bolt pattern may not fit your car or can affect your car's overall balance and safety. The offset determines how far the wheel center sits from your car's hub. A positive offset positions the wheel more towards the vehicle's outside, while a negative offset moves the wheel inwards.

Offset plays a vital role in ensuring the wheels center correctly to your vehicle's hub and influences several aspects of the wheel's handling characteristics. It ensures the wheel does not rub against your car's body or other suspension components. Therefore, you must select rims with the correct bolt pattern and offset for your specific car model. 

For more information on new rims, contact an auto shop.