When Should You Change Your Car Rims

Over the years, we have talked a lot about tires. For instance, we discussed their functions and various parts. We feel that we have neglected one of the parts – rims. So, today’s blog is all about the rims. Without making you wait any further, let us start our discussion.

WHAT IS A RIM?

Rims are the outermost part of the tyres on which they rotate. In other words, it is simply an alloy upon which the tires are fixed. The rims are typically made up of aluminium or a simple metal. Rims provide traction to your car and also support the weight of the vehicle. Tires are often confused with the rims as both are thought to be the same while in reality, they aren't. In simple and easy terms, tyres are the rubber part while the rim is the metal part.

WHICH RIM IS SUITABLE FOR YOUR CAR?

Rims come in different sizes and designs. The size of the rim of your car depends on the size and weight of your vehicle. A small car would usually require a small rim. For instance, a bigger vehicle, an SUV, would need a bigger rim to support its weight. If the size of your tyre is bigger than that of the rim, it will negatively affect your car performance and can also be very dangerous.

Rims come in different qualities, and there are many options available in the market. It is recommended not to go for a cheaper rim as they will not be much durable and may damage your tyres. Steel rims are much better in quality and durability than aluminium rims.

HOW ARE RIMS DAMAGED?

As we already know by now, rims are metallic, meaning they must be solid. However, this does not mean that they are unbreakable. There are many ways in which your car rims can get damaged. All of these damages are related to road hazards. It is not easy to protect the rims from being damaged, but you can take measures and be a little bit more watchful on the road and avoid the following things:

1. POTHOLES

It is challenging to spot a pothole due to heavy traffic or when going at high speed. Even if you do, it usually is too late. All of us let our car drive over it and hope for the best. You might think you missed car damage after running over a pothole, but you should always get it checked by an expert, especially if you have run over several potholes. It might seem well from the outside, but that might not be the case. There is a possibility that your rim got damaged from the inside part. It is usually hidden from us.

2. HITTING THE CURB

A common mistake we all make is hitting the side of the curb while making a turn or when we park the vehicle. The majority of us have made this mistake, and it might prove to be costly for your rims as they may get damaged. So make sure that you stay away from the curb while making a turn or while parking. If there is any damage or a scratch on your rim, get it checked.

3. BROKEN ROAD

There are always some roads that are not maintained, and as a result, they develop cracks. Driving over such roads is as dangerous as hitting a curb or going over a pothole. So, avoid using such roads or lower your speed so that rims do not get damaged.

WHEN TO REPLACE CAR RIMS?

Knowing when to replace the rims can save you money on expensive repairs:

1. DAMAGE VISIBLE ON RIMS

Common signs to replace your car rims are if you see cracks or the edges of the rim are roughed up. It should be enough to alert you; if not, it might damage your tyres.

2. LOW FUEL EFFICIENCY

If your car consumes more petrol than usual and gives low mileage, you should get your tyres and rims checked as damaged rims and tyres are also responsible for low fuel efficiency.

3. UNEVEN DRIVE

Suppose your car is not running smoothly even though the tyres are nowhere near their end life and the road is well maintained. In that case, there might be a strong possibility that your rim has been damaged, causing the car to bump and have an uncomfortable drive.

4. FREQUENTLY INFLATED TYRES

There are also some of the causes that hurts tyre life. If your tyre is frequently inflated and there is no damage or puncture to your tyre, then it might be because the rims have bent, causing tyres to lose air pressure.

Wrap Up

This article talks about rims in ample detail and informs car owners on when to replace them. If you still have any questions about the rims or any other vehicle part or one of our services, please let us know. Thank You.