What Do You Need When Buying Brand New Wheels

When buying brand-new wheels for your vehicle, you want to improve its handling or appearance. However, picking out the correct wheels is more complex than choosing a design you like and putting them on your vehicle. There are many essential factors and technical details to consider.
Buying custom or aftermarket rims is one of the easiest ways to thoroughly change your vehicle’s look. But with so many choices, it can take time to figure out which ones are right for you. At Discounted Wheel Warehouse, we offer a wide selection of brand-new wheels with fast two-day shipping, a price match guarantee, and no-questions-asked returns. Need technical details or help selecting the right wheels for your vehicle? Call us at (800) 901-6003, and our experts will gladly assist you!
This guide will help you understand what to consider before upgrading your wheels.

What to Look for When Buying Brand New Wheels

Wheel Width

A narrower wheel helps keep the tire in place at low air pressure, but it may wear out faster in the center if it’s too narrow.
Wider wheels improve stability but may strain the suspension and increase tire wear on the edges. Tires are often more expansive than the wheel for off-roading to shield it from rocks. In sports cars, the wheel width typically matches the tread width.

Wheel Diameter

Larger wheels look sporty but cost more, add weight, and stiffen the ride. Smaller wheels are cheaper, smoother, and better off-road but may not fit larger brakes. The 17-inch size balances cost, performance, and tire options—ideal for a 35-inch tire.

Wheel Offset

Wheel offset is the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and the centerline. Zero offset means the wheel is evenly split. Positive offset pulls the wheel closer, making it sit narrower, while negative offset pushes it out, widening the track.

Load Rating

The load rating shows how much weight a wheel can safely carry. Steel wheels hold less weight, cast aluminum rims hold more, and forged rims are the strongest. More bolts and a more considerable bolt circle help distribute the weight for higher capacity

Backspacing

Backspacing, like offset, measures the distance from the wheel’s inside lip to the mounting surface, but it also depends on the wheel’s width. Shallow backspacing is similar to negative offset, while deep backspacing is similar to positive offset.

Center Bore

The center bore is the hole at the center of the wheel. It can also be more prominent if the bolt circle is more significant. The center bore is essential when fitting wheels over certain parts, like locking hubs or full-floating axles.

• Hub-centric wheels use the center bore to line up the wheel perfectly on the axle.
• Lug-centric wheels use the lug nuts to center the wheel instead.

Bead Seat

The bead seat holds the tire in place with air pressure. A taller, wider bead seat allows for lower air pressure. Beadlock wheels use bolts to secure the tire, preventing it from coming off even without air pressure.

Bolt Pattern

The wheel bolt pattern shows how the wheel connects to your car and must match your axles. Most Jeeps have a 5-lug pattern, with newer ones using a 5-on-5 pattern and older ones using a 5-on-4½ pattern. The first number is the bolt count, and the second is the circle size in inches.

What’s Your Style?

Wheels come in various finishes, each offering a unique look. Options include:

• Black- Gloss, satin, or matte.
• Gunmetal- A range of gray shades.
• Silver- A shiny, classic look.
• Machined & Milled- Painted surface with exposed metal underneath.
• Chrome – Shiny finish for durability and style.

Tips for Buying the Right Wheels for Your Vehicle

Stick to Your Budget

Wheels can be expensive, especially if you buy a whole set. They can range in price from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Fancy or custom wheels cost even more. Don’t forget to add the price of installing the wheels to your budget!

Be Careful When Upsizing

Bigger wheels look cool but add weight, making your ride bumpier and stressing your car’s suspension. When upgrading to off-road rims, choose a size that won’t affect performance. Larger wheels may need tires with shorter sidewalls, offering less protection on rough terrain.

Choose Between Alloy and Steel Wheels

Alloy wheels are more expensive, stylish, and improve performance, but they must be more durable and more challenging to fix. Steel wheels are cheaper, stronger, and easier to repair but heavier and less stylish.
Also Read Our In-Depth Review on Aluminum vs Steel Rims.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, buying brand-new wheels involves considering factors like size, style, load rating, and compatibility with your car. It’s essential to balance performance and appearance while staying within your budget. Upgrade your vehicle with our Wheel and Tire Package for improved performance, style, and durability.