Wheels, Tires Parts and Accessories
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WHEELS & TIRES
Wheel and tire parts are crucial to the overall performance and functioning of your vehicle. Not only do they ensure a smooth ride by providing support, but they can also be used to customize your vehicle and make it your own. Wheels, nuts, bolts, and other hardware are all a part of the complex car wheel assembly that keeps your car running seamlessly.
When it comes to tires, one size does not fit all. Tires can be categorized into three groups: summer, winter, and all-season tires. Summer tires are designed to provide traction on dry and wet roads, so they¿re perfect for warm weather. Winter tires, on the other hand, have deeper grooves that provide superior grip on snow and ice. All-season tires provide a combination of both, making them suitable for everyday driving in moderate temperatures. When weather conditions change, you must change your tires too- tire changes are essential to ensuring safe and comfortable driving on the road. Certain provinces have regulations on the use of seasonal tires, so being aware of these rules is crucial.
It is also important to perform regular wheel alignments and tire balancing to prevent uneven wear, vibration, and steering issues. Properly aligned wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. Maintaining proper wheel alignment ensures stability, steadiness, and control when cornering or braking. Wheel balancing helps the wheels spin smoothly and evenly to reduce vibrations.
Wheel geometry is also important for proper alignment and performance. Understanding the following geometrical measurements is essential for even tire wire, efficient handling, and overall road safety:
- Diameter - distance across the wheel, passing through the centre
- Width - how wide or narrow a tire can be mounted on a particular rim
- Camber - vertical tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front or rear
- Toe - angle at which the wheels point inward or outward when viewed from above
- Caster - angle between the vertical axis of the steering pivot and a line drawn through the lower ball joint
Performing periodic wheel maintenance and having the correct tires is vital. Consult an expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts for specific advice for your vehicle.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT WHEEL COMPONENTS?
The wheels of your car are made up of many different components that come together to make the wheels rotate effectively and smoothly. Here are some of the main parts of a wheel and what they do:
- The wheel rim - outermost part of the wheel, made of different materials (e.g., steel and aluminum alloy), that holds the tire securely in place. The wheel rims you select will depend on your vehicle¿s specifications and your personal aesthetic preferences, as they can be used to personalize your car.
- Wheel bolts - inserted through the wheel to secure the wheel to the car
- Lug nuts - secure the wheel onto the axle through threaded fasteners
- Wheel end washers - used to distribute pressure, reduce friction, and prevent loosening of the nuts
These parts may seem small, but they all play a crucial role in keeping you safe and comfortable on the road. NAPA Auto Parts offers an extensive selection of all the parts you need to have well-functioning wheels.
TIRE AND WHEEL ACCESSORIES
Wheel parts are a fun way to customize and personalize your vehicle- lots of accessories can be added to your wheels for aesthetic or practical purposes. Here are some accessories you can find at NAPA Auto Parts:
- Tire chains - tire chains fit over your tire to add additional grip and traction on the road. When it comes to tackling snow and icy roads, this accessory may be what you need to improve your driving experience.
- Wheel covers - wheel covers (also known as hub caps) protect the underlying wheel from dirt and rust, but they can also be a fun way to customize your vehicle. They come in a range of designs and colours, allowing you to make your car your own. Find the right wheels for your ride at your local NAPA store.
- Centre wheel caps - although wheel caps serve as dust caps to keep moisture and dirt out of the bearings, it¿s also possible to get them in a range of designs and use them as decorative pieces.