Your wheels are four of the most crucial parts of your car. The type of wheels and tyres you use can determine how your vehicle handles and performs. For instance, your wheel choice can affect how efficient it moves along! You will normally be able to fix wheels onto a car with ease using axle studs and locking wheel nuts.
Understanding Your Wheels
Wheels come in various manufacturing standards and materials. Some of the most popular wheels are made from steel, thanks to their durability. However, many people prefer alloy wheels as they are more pleasing to the eye, on the whole!
What’s more, steel wheels, while durable and resilient, are clunkier and slower on the road than alloy wheels. Then again, many drivers may find steel wheels to be assets in heavy weather conditions where grip is a must.
Alloy wheels are light, and many drivers prefer them as they are less likely to fail in hot temperatures. Alloy wheels are also easy to customise, though it is crucial centre alloy caps are fixed in place, giving protection to the axles and hubs.
Wheels will also arrive with trims, which are normally made from tough plastic. These are more than just stylish add-ons! They protect the hubs of your wheels and prevent them from corroding from flying debris.
Understanding Your Tyres
What are wheels without tyres? Unsafe! A tyre is a circular, rubber treaded disc filled with compressed air. A tyre, complete with inner wiring and cabling, will easily fit to a wheel and rim, cushioning the sensitive metal underneath.
Tyres are just as important to your car as wheels! The tyres you choose will determine how your car performs on the road. For example, you can purchase tyres with specific treads for specific vehicles. What’s more, you can fit tyres which have wet, dry and bad weather grips for added support.
Compatibility, however, is key. You can’t simply fit any old tyre to a wheel of your choice! It is extremely important to check your logbook and to consult a repair shop if you want to replace your tyres. Tread depth, for example, can and will vary depending on the car you use.
You should regularly check your tyre pressure for inflation and deflation. Underinflation can lead to wearing down, while overinflation can lead to too much pressure.
Looking After Your Wheels and Tyres
It is crucial that you balance your wheels regularly. Regular alignment can improve how your tyres perform in the long run. This will also mean that you get more money and mileage out of your fuel, and that you benefit from better car handling across a variety of surfaces.
Unfortunately, all tyres will wear down over time. Extend the life of your tyres by regularly checking pressure and treads, and make sure that the tyres you choose fit well to the car you are driving. Improperly fitting tyres can lead to mistakes, accidents, and even impact negatively on your car insurance.
