Wheels

Advice on Wheels, Rims and Performance Tires

The steps below will help guide you through the wheel buying process, ensuring sales, appearance and performance satisfaction.

Think about buying alloy wheels if you do a lot of driving in the mountains or in stop-and-go traffic. Some alloy wheels are designed to encourage cool air flow over the brakes to prevent overheating. The alloy itself can help dissipate heat, too.
"Plus-size" your rims if you want to improve performance and add a sportier look. With a larger inner diameter, you'll find steering is more responsive and your car holds the road better. Purchasing rims that are one or two sizes larger than what you have means you'll have to buy new tires as well.
Look for rims that aren't too heavy for your vehicle. Big, steel rims on a small car can decrease handling ability. Heavy wheels are unsprung weight--not supported by your car's suspension-- and therefore useless for smoothing out the ride or improving balance in driving maneuvers.

Advice on Wheels, Rims and Performance Tires

The steps below will help guide you through the wheel buying process, ensuring sales, appearance and performance satisfaction.

Think about buying alloy wheels if you do a lot of driving in the mountains or in stop-and-go traffic. Some alloy wheels are designed to encourage cool air flow over the brakes to prevent overheating. The alloy itself can help dissipate heat, too.
"Plus-size" your rims if you want to improve performance and add a sportier look. With a larger inner diameter, you'll find steering is more responsive and your car holds the road better. Purchasing rims that are one or two sizes larger than what you have means you'll have to buy new tires as well.
Look for rims that aren't too heavy for your vehicle. Big, steel rims on a small car can decrease handling ability. Heavy wheels are unsprung weight--not supported by your car's suspension-- and therefore useless for smoothing out the ride or improving balance in driving maneuvers.