Wheel center caps are normally used on vehicles as a method of protecting spindle nuts and other components of the wheel from flying gravel and other debris. They help to deter dirt and rocks from getting into the hub and damaging bearings, especially for automobiles which are sometimes driven off-road or on unpaved streets.
Some drivers and car enthusiasts also use wheel center caps to improve aesthetic appeal. These more decorative pieces will generally offer an impressive brand logo or design as opposed to the more plain and functional caps which are seen on everyday vehicles.
What To Look For:
The type of caps you buy will be determined by a number of factors. For example, if you are looking for something to enhance the physical appearance of a car or truck then you will want to find one in a particular brand or design to suit your tastes. Other characteristics to consider include price, durability, quality, and size.
The size of the cap will depend on the type of tires in use; buying caps too small will result in a waste of money as they will not fit your tires properly. You can gain a better understanding of which cap brands are most affordable and durable by checking peer reviews online or by speaking to sales representatives at various dealerships and automotive parts suppliers.
Reasons To Buy:
Wheel center caps aren’t just used as a method of boosting aesthetics and the security of the wheels during travel, but they also act as a form of protection from would be thieves. Without a cap, all of the nuts and bearings are easily accessible to those who might be looking to steal tires. Of course, a cap can also be removed, but some will come with special locking capabilities that keep the cap in place unless a certain tool is used to remove them.
Types Of Caps:
Aside from size and brand, there are a few other things you should look for in terms of buying the right wheel center caps. It’s important to know whether you are purchasing caps from an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or an aftermarket parts supplier. OEM is exactly as it sounds; these are caps that are sold by the manufacturer or through a dealer who is licensed to sell the parts. Aftermarket parts are usually sold through a third party and are not parts that were designed by car manufacturers to suit their vehicles.
If you are seeking wheel center caps as a form of expression then you might be more open to aftermarket or custom parts. On the other hand, those seeking caps for security purchases will find what they need through an OEM distributor.
No matter what your reasons are for buying, or the type of caps you’re looking for, there are a number of reasonably priced products on the market. You can shop through a local garage or order online for a wider selection of caps. Whatever you choose to do, make sure that you fully research the brand and size before buying. Check up on customer reviews or speak to a sales rep to get the best caps for your vehicle.
