Which Wheel Covers Fit My Car?
- Wheel covers fit standard steel rims, meaning they do not fit custom rims or alloy wheels.
- The size of the wheel covers that fit your car can be found on the tire of your car. For example, if your tire is labeled 195/55-R15, then it is 15-inch wheel covers, and if it is 165/80-R13, then it is 13-inch, meaning you should look at the last two numbers.
- Spherical wheel covers are only used for steel rims where the wheel bolts protrude far beyond the tire when viewed from the side. This is usually only larger vans or motorhomes. Regular passenger cars do NOT use spherical wheel covers.
In this guide, we will go through the installation process step-by-step.
Preparations:
It is a good idea to install the wheel covers in a warm garage or similar, as the plastic is more flexible when warm. Alternatively, you can place the wheel covers indoors to warm them up, then take one out at a time so you can install it before it cools down if it is cold outside. A pair of good work gloves is also a good idea, as the car's wheels are usually dirty.
Step-by-Step Installation Process.
- Install the metal ring inside the plastic clips on the back of the wheel cover. This way, the metal ring pushes the plastic clips out towards the rim edge when you push the wheel cover into place.
- Place the wheel cover in front of the wheel and ensure that the valve hole in the cover aligns with the valve on the wheel. Correct alignment ensures that you can access the valve without removing the wheel cover if you need to check tire pressure or inflate the tire.
- Ensure that the wheel cover is seated correctly, then press on 3 points (use your knee and 2 hands so it forms a Y (Clock positions 2 / 6 / 10) Knee at 6 o'clock, right hand at 2 o'clock, and left hand at 10 o'clock). Then press evenly as the cover goes in straight and does not break during installation.
- Ensure that the wheel cover is straight and fully in place; if it is too loose/tight, it can be adjusted by modifying the size of the metal ring in the adjustment arch.
- Once you have installed all the wheel covers, it is a good idea to slowly roll forward a bit and check that all covers are seated correctly and do not wobble or move unevenly.
Benefits of Using Wheel Covers
- First, the visual aspect; it greatly enhances the appearance of the car to have nice wheels on.
- Protection; the wheel covers act as a protective barrier that shields your wheels from dirt and potential damage, which can extend the lifespan of your wheels.
- Savings; by preventing corrosion and damage to your steel rims, wheel covers can save you money on repairs or replacements.
- Easy maintenance and easy cleaning. Helps you keep the car looking nice with minimal effort.
- Easy to renew; if you want black wheels in the summer and alloy-colored in the winter, it is easy to change wheel covers and thus change the appearance of the car.
If you are unfortunate when installing your wheel covers and happen to break a clip or damage a cover, please give us a call. We have loose wheel covers in almost all designs and sizes available, and we will try to find one you can use at a modest price.