How to Buy Rims for Your Car

Unlike tires, wheels or “rims” are a vehicle part that you don’t typically replace very often. But when you do, you want to choose the right ones. A set of custom wheels can be the visual or performance boost you’ve been looking for.

Many drivers have never had to replace or purchase new wheels so they may be unsure where to start or what they need to know. America's Tire employees are not just tire experts, but also wheel extraordinaires. We’ll help you decide which wheels are best for you and what you’ll need to make an informed purchase.

You can jump in by shopping our entire wheel category, too.

And good news: you can preview how your rims will look like on your vehicle with our wheel visualizer!

(Were you trying to buy wheels as a gift for someone else?)

WHAT WHEELS SHOULD I GET FOR MY CAR?

Most people aren’t very familiar with wheels, but even “car guys/gals” can still find it challenging to make a definitive choice. This is especially true with the huge variety of styles, manufacturers, finishes, and inventory available.

In short: the best wheels for your vehicle are the ones that serve your purpose.

Do you need something that can handle a large load capacity, tolerate off-road rambling, or just something that brings your garage fixer upper to the upper crust? Wheels are designed and constructed for a variety of applications, including towing, camping, racing, and more.

One you have decided what you need them for, you should consider:

• Size (including width)

Wheels can come in more limited sizing compared to popular tire models so it’s important to verify the wheels you like will fit. It’s a matter of safety and cost. Ill-fitting wheels are a recipe for complications like rubbing, lower fuel efficiency, vibration, and uneven treadwear.

• Offset

Day-to-day drivers probably won’t need to mind offset much, but it can make a big impact on the look and feel of your muscle or performance car.

• Load capacity (if applicable)

Large trucks and SUVs are heavier than cars. They also tend to be used to tow or haul. This means you’ll need to pay attention to load capacity numbers to make sure your chosen wheel can handle it.

• Construction type (if applicable)

• Wheel color and finish

A wheel’s color and finish is more than just a superficial element. Your rim’s finish can affect how well it holds up to specific driving conditions such as temperature, obstacles and road hazards, ice, snow, and chemicals.

• Style

To some degree, style does affect performance. Racing wheels tend to have airy, open designs that allow air to reach your brakes and keep them cool, for example.

WHAT DO YOU NEED WHEN BUYING BRAND NEW WHEELS?

You need three things when buying brand new wheels:

1. Your wheel size

2. Funds to purchase

3. Reputable installer

The most important thing you need when buying new wheels is your wheel size. The easiest way to find out your wheel size is to input your vehicle into our fitment guide.

A component of your wheel size is its bolt pattern, which is the pattern in which the bolts that connect your wheel to your vehicle are arranged. These tend to be vehicle specific with five lug applications being the most common. We have a video on how to measure your bolt pattern for your convenience.

If you are changing your size in some way, either making it larger or smaller or “plus sizing”, from your original equipment, you’ll need to make sure your wheels and tires fit.

We can’t help you with funding your wheel purchase but we can guarantee the lowest prices in the industry with our low price promise. Take a look at our deals and promotions that run 365 days a year, too. We also offer many different ways to pay and finance your wheels.

America's Tire is more than just tires. We also install, repair, and sell wheels, too. And you will leave our garage satisfied that your wheels and tires were installed properly with our famous red carpet customer service.

Some exciting news: select America's Tire stores also offer wheel alignments! See if your local store is participating in this service here:

One simple purchase with one easy installation appointment and cost means you can save more when buying a wheel and tire package! It’s a true customized experience when your rims and rubber all roll seamlessly with your ride!

Ready to get rolling?

If you’re still stuck on how to buy a new set of custom wheels for your vehicle, we can help. Our wheel and tire experts are standing by to make sure you leave our bays happy.

Ready to make a purchase? Save some time when you buy and book online!

For more information on this and other tire and wheel services, check out our YouTube Channel or reach out to us on X, Facebook and Instagram.