Wheels

What are automotive wheels and where are they located?

The wheels are what finally translate the power generated from your engine to the movement of your car or truck. They mount to the wheel hubs, and the tires mount to them. You could say that the wheels are where the rubber meets the road. Some people refer to wheels as “rims,” but technically the rim is only the edge of the wheel that the tire attaches to. 

Buying wheels can be confusing. Many wheels on the market are multi-fit or specialty wheels, used to customize automobiles. To find wheels that match the ones you had before, you’d have to know your wheel width, diameter, and bolt pattern. At 1A Auto, we make it easy. Our aftermarket wheels are specific to your model and designed to fit just like the original. You just need to know your model to find the right wheels. 

How do I know if my vehicle's wheels need to be replaced?

Wheels can suffer aesthetic or structural damage. Your wheels get exposed to the elements which, over time, can lead to corrosion. Wheels are painted to prevent corrosion, but if the paint starts to chip, moisture, salt and dirt can gain access to the metal. To avoid corrosion, exercise caution any time you clean your wheels. Acidic soap or too much abrasion can also take off paint and expose the metal. 

It also pays to be cautious when driving to avoid structural wheel damage. Bumping the curb or hitting potholes too hard can dent or bend the wheel rims. The wheel spokes provide support, so damage is more likely to be on the inside of the wheel, where it’s not visible. Vibration in the steering column and a decrease in steering responsiveness can be signs of a bent rim.

Can I replace an automotive wheel myself?

Replacing your wheels will require a little bit of help from a professional technician. New wheels won’t do you much good without tires on them, so you’ll have to take your wheels to have tires mounted on them. Your local mechanic or tire shop will use special equipment to mount the tire to the wheel. Once that’s done, replacing the wheel is relatively easy. You just need to remove the lug nuts from the old wheel, pull it off, put the new wheel on, and tighten the lug nuts. Be sure to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification in a crisscrossing pattern.  

Need replacement wheels for your car or truck?

Without wheels, your vehicle isn’t going anywhere. Wheels are the metal support for the car or truck’s tires, and ensure the vehicle’s stability while driving. They carry a big burden when it comes to the functioning of your vehicle—literally—so, if they are in need of replacement, it’s obvious that you do so ASAP in order to get your ride rolling again. At 1A Auto, we carry a huge selection of replacement wheels for many makes and models, and at great prices. These replacement wheels are just what you need to get your vehicle in good working order again!

At 1A Auto, we make shopping for replacement wheels for your car, truck, SUV or van easy—we're here to help you select the right parts for your vehicle! Call our customer service toll free at 888-844-3393 if you have any questions about our aftermarket wheels, warranty, compatibility or to purchase, or you can buy online.