New Wheel for Spring 2013: Verde Parallax

Wednesday, January 23, 2013 by Ben Rooney

The Verde Parallax has been added to our lineup of aftermarket wheels for 2013. This wheel has an attractive, clean five-spoke design, with each spoke divided into two parallel spokes. All Verde Parallax wheels feature a machined face with black accents. The machined spokes are highlighted against the black background, making them the visual focus of the design. 

Verde, established in 1981, has committed itself to excellence throughout the production process, from research and design through final production. This dedication has resulted in both ISO/TS16949 certification and recognition internationally via certification by the International Standards Organization. Their factory was built in 2002 as a fully integrated production line with R & D, tooling, casting, CNC machining, polishing, chrome plating, painting, packaging and warehouse logistics capabilities.

While this wheel is listed as new for the spring of 2013, there are already a few in stock. Pricing for the Parallax currently ranges between the $170 to $200*. The wheel is available in rim diameters of 19" and 20". You can shop by vehicle to view the offerings available for your car.

* Prices subject to change

Lightweight, Strong and Good Looking: Enkei Racing Series PF01

Wednesday, November 28, 2012 by Marshall Wisler

Selecting wheels for a vehicle is subjective based upon one's taste and ultimately up to each individual customer. Here at Tire Rack, we offer many different brands to suit the various tastes of our customers.

While I'm frequently asked, "What wheel would look best on my car?", I must admit it's a very difficult question to answer. Even though I've been customizing cars for years and certainly have my thoughts as to how things should be done, my feelings don't always match that of the consumer. 

When I do weigh in, I try to recommend wheels that aren't overstated, of good quality and are as purposeful as possible. For customers looking for a wheel that is durable, good looking and extremely lightweight, one of my favorite choices is Enkei's PF01

Part of the Enkei Racing Series family, this product weighs as little as 10 lbs. in certain sizes and maintains a much lower price point than other high-end wheel manufacturers. The broad range of bolt patterns and sizing of this wheel allows it to be used on a wide variety of vehicles.

The 4x100 bolt pattern is a popular choice for Honda and Mazda Miata owners, while the 5x114 option has proven to be very popular on countless other makes and models. Besides the physical allure of this wheel, it's proven quite handy when trying to clear Big Brake Kits due to its large amount of spoke clearance.

When considering aftermarket wheels or aftermarket rims as they are commonly called, take a look at many of the various wheels from Enkei. With many wheels to chose from, your tastes doesn't have to exactly mirror my own.

Steel Rims vs. Alloy Wheels for Winter Use

Monday, November 5, 2012 by Gary Stanley

If you're shopping for a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package, you'll notice that steel wheels are offered for many vehicles and are more economical than aluminum alloy wheels. Keep in mind that price only tells part of the story. While they may be the right choice for you, be sure to consider the advantages and disadvantages of using steel wheels versus alloy wheels.

Steel Wheels

  • Meet the basic needs of drivers who want the convenience of a winter tire package without the additional cost of an alloy wheel
  • Typically available in black or silver finish depending on the application
  • Basic styling can often be updated with wheel covers
  • Cost less than alloy wheels due to ease of manufacturing and lower material costs

Since steel wheels aren't the sportiest addition to your vehicle, wheel covers will hide the wheels while enhancing your vehicle's appearance. If a good look is especially important to you, alloy wheels may be the way to go! When creating a Winter Tire & Wheel Package, why should you consider an aftermarket alloy wheel? What are the benefits of alloy wheels over steel?

Alloy Wheels 

  • Enhance the look of your vehicle
  • Are manufactured to precise standards to meet exact fitment and performance needs
  • Weigh less than steel wheels and have often have superior strength
  • May be the preferred option for your vehicle based on fitment requirements
  • Will allow for better brake clearance (depending on wheel style and brake components installed)
  • Some may require proper maintenance as finish damage may result in the harshest winter climates where salt and sand are routinely used
Steel Wheels
Steel Wheels
Sport Edition A7
Sport Edition A7


It's important to remember that alloy wheels may be the only option for your vehicle since steel wheels aren't made to fit every application. To learn more about the benefits of an alloy wheel, read "What is an Alloy Wheel?"

Tire Rack Consumer Review of the Continental ProContact with EcoPlus Technology

Wednesday, February 8, 2012 by Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

The following post was created from content submitted via Tire Rack's consumer surveys. Information shown is the opinion of the consumer and meant to be used for comparison shopping purposes.

Continental ProContact with EcoPlus TechnologyReviewer's Overall Rating: 9.75

2006 Honda Civic Hybrid
More Tire Reviews for This Vehicle


Buy/More Info
Miles driven on tires: 15000
Location: Portland, OR
Driving Condition: Spirited

Initial Review, 15000 Miles on Tires
February 06, 2012

These replaced a set of (now discontinued) LRR Continental GT tires. My only continued complaint with Continental's LRR tires on my Civic Hybrid has been poor traction off the line. These tires, and their past iteration, have spun under even moderate acceleration on wet pavement. Other than that, I've found traction, braking, steering response, and predictability at their limits to be excellent. Mileage has been good at around 47 mpg combined(they are currently mounted on lightweight 15" aftermarket rims). Unlike other brands of LRR tires, these have not had a significant drop in mileage during heavy rain and standing water. I currently use the stock rims and winter tires, so I have no opinion on their winter traction.

Lowering Your Ford Mustang

Thursday, January 5, 2012 by Logan Woodworth
The late model Ford Mustang is fast becoming an extremely popular vehicle for both customizers and enthusiasts. This is partly due to the volume of aftermarket parts available and the demand from consumers to set their Mustang apart from the crowd and show off their personal style.

In addition to custom paint jobs and aftermarket wheels (rims), many Mustang owners are opting to lower their cars for more aggressive handling and appearance. Due to the flexibility of the late model Mustang chassis, there are several ride height and stiffness options available.

Depending on the version of Mustang, there are several options for lowering from standard non-adjustable springs to fully adjustable coil-over kits. Coil-over kits offer the height and dampening adjustability that is not possible with a spring-only application.
Eibach Multi-Pro Coil-Over R2 Kit for 2011 Mustang GT
It's important to note that when changing a vehicle's ride height, alignment adjustments will be needed for your vehicle. For lowering, this typically includes reduction in camber to counter the camber increase caused by shorter springs. For the newer Mustang, a set of camber bolts will do the trick for the front and an adjustable panhard bar or trailing arm for the rear.

When you're looking for Mustang shocks, springs, coil-over kits or other suspension parts for your ride, be sure to shop by vehicle to find the parts that are a great fit.

Wheels & Tires for the 2011-2012 VW Jetta

Friday, November 4, 2011 by Cy Chowattukunnel
Despite what some automotive experts say, I really like the new Volkswagen Jetta. And, if the original Jetta tires and wheels are not to your liking, some aftermarket car rims and tires could really increase the vehicle's style.

As you try to envision how a given wheel will fit on your car, keep in mind that the offset spec effects the overall look. How would the 17x7.5 5-112 bolt pattern 45mm offset Bright Silver Enkei Tuning Fujin look on the car, even though your Original Equipment wheels are 16" in diameter and 6.5" with a 50mm offset? To help you gain a better picture of how these Enkei rims would sit on your vehicle, look at where your valve stems sit and picture them moving 17mm (roughly 3/4") out towards the fender.

Manufacturers will determine what sizes of wheels they'll make, as not all wheels come in all sizes. However, when you purchase wheels from Tire Rack, you can be assured the wheel you order is a perfect match for your vehicle. To see how we get the proper fitments for each vehicle, read "How We Know What Fits."

Since I am a big fan of the Jetta TDI let's use this application as an example. For 17" wheels you can choose Volkswagen tires in either 225/45-17 or 235/45-17. If I were picking tires to use here in Indiana, I'd get the 225/45-17 Michelin Primacy MXM4 for its combination of great steering response, wet grip and efficiency.

Since the new Jetta uses the indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System with ABS sensors, you don't need to get separate sensors. And when you're looking at our online tire prices for the Michelin Primacy, create a Tire & Wheel Package with the Enkei wheels for $1388* plus shipping.

17x7.5 Bright Silver Enkei Tuning Fujin
17x7.5 Bright Silver Enkei Tuning Fujin
225/45-17 Michelin Primacy MXM4
225/45-17 Michelin Primacy MXM4

Create the perfect Tire & Wheel Package for your Jetta today!

Winter Wheels: Alloy vs. Steel

Wednesday, November 2, 2011 by Logan Woodworth
As the snow starts to fly, there's a mad rush for customers to get winter wheels and tires. However, should you order steel or alloy wheels with your Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package? The decision depends on the vehicle, price, the customer's needs and availability. 

Availability: Certain vehicles can only be installed with alloy wheels, as steel wheels are not designed as aftermarket rims (wheels) for all applications.

Price: Steel wheels are the most affordable option even when you add a set of wheel covers to your purchase. However, the price differeSteel Wheelnce can be minimal at times and many customers choose alloy wheels because they prefer the look and ease of not purchasing wheel covers.

Appearance: Obviously, there are many more styles of alloy wheels available than the simple black steel wheels. For some drivers, this is important. For others, the black steel wheel is perfectly sufficient.

Performance: Alloy wheels offer several performance advantages over steel. Compared to a steel wheel, an alloy wheel is lighter, stronger and will not rust. To gain a better understanding of how to compare alloy to steel wheels, read "Alloy vs. Steel Wheels in Winter Tire & Wheel Packages."

Winter Tire and Wheel Sets for Porsche Panamera and Cayenne

Thursday, October 20, 2011 by Logan Woodworth
Winter / snow tires offer dramatic improvement in safety and performance in winter conditions including snow, ice and freezing temperatures. This improvement is especially important for vehicles that include Max Performance Summer tires as Original Equipment.
 
The Porsche Panamera and new body style Cayenne commonly come with O.E. Max Performance Summer tires and are dangerous to use in a winter environment. The few all-season Porsche tires available are not well-suited for deep snow and ice.

Tire Rack offers custom Winter/ Snow Tire & Wheel Packages for these vehicles in 18", 19" and 20" diameters. The packages come completely mounted and balanced and have the option of coming with TPMS sensors and Porsche center caps. 

Winter packages for the Panamera start at around $1,800* for the 18" fitment. This package includes the Pirelli Winter 240 Sottozero Serie II tire and Sport Edition Cup 4 alloy wheel. And after you buy Pirelli tires for your Porsche, read "Breaking In New Winter Tires" to better understand how the personality and handling traits of your new tires are different than your Original Equipment.
Pirelli Winter 240 Sottozero Serie II
Pirelli Winter 240 Sottozero Serie II
Sport Edition Cup 4
Sport Edition Cup 4

Winter packages for the Cayenne start at around $1,300* for the 18" fitment. This package includes the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 and the Sport Edition TX8 alloy wheel. This combination of Bridgestone SUV tires and aftermarket wheels will make winter driving a breeze compared to any all weather tires you may find.
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1
Sport Edition TX8
Sport Edition TX8

Find the right wheels/rims and tires for your vehicle by creating a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package today!

*Prices subject to change

Aftermarket Wheels and O.E. Center Caps

Friday, January 28, 2011 by Chad Hocker
Aftermarket wheels designed to use the Original Equipment center cap are available at Tire Rack. Let the wheels from Bremmer Kraft, Breyton, ASA, Elbrus and O.Z. Racing give your vehicle that custom look while maintaining the factory edge. Take a look at a few options that will set your car apart from the rest:

Bremmer Kraft BR05 Black PaintedBreyton Race GTS-R Matte Grey w/Red StripeASA Type 8 Chrome Plated
Bremmer Kraft BR05Breyton Race GTS-RASA Type 8
Mercedes-BenzBMWMercedes-Benz

O.Z. Racing Alleggerita HLT Blue PaintedElbrus I02 Silver PaintedO.Z. Racing Ultraleggera HLT Bright Silver Paint
O.Z. Racing Alleggerita HLTElbrus I02O.Z. Racing Ultraleggera HLT
PorscheBMW and Mercedes-BenzPorsche


Use our website to view exact fitment and availability as some wheels may not be compatible with certain makes and models.

Note:
Click the "Product Description" tab on the rim summary page to see if the wheel will accept the O.E. center cap. If available for the wheel selected, the O.E. center cap can be purchased from the "Optional Hardware" tab.
BMW Center CapPorsche Center CapMercedes Center Cap

Mercedes-Benz Rims

Friday, January 28, 2011 by Chad Hocker
Aftermarket wheels designed to use the O.E. Mercedes-Benz center cap are available at Tire Rack. We offer Mercedes wheels from Bremmer Kraft, BE by Breyton, and ASA for your model.

Bremmer Kraft BR05 Black PaintedBE By Breyton GTS-AW Hyper SilverASA Type 8 Chrome Plated
Bremmer Kraft BR05BE by Breyton GTS-AVASA Type 8

Use our website to match exact fitment, as some wheels may not be compatible with certain Mercedes-Benz models.

Optional Mercedes Center Cap

Note:
Click the "Product Description" tab on the summary page to see if the wheel will accept the O.E. center cap.

Aftermarket Wheels vs. Rims

Tuesday, August 17, 2010 by Tire Rack Team

Many people refer to the aftermarket wheels on their vehicle as "rims"—but the two terms are technically not interchangeable. Aftermarket wheels are the steel or alloy units on which your tires are installed. A rim is really the outer part of the wheel that holds the tire. But don't worry, we'll know what you're talking about if you call us in search of some new rims. And really, we sometimes refer to aftermarket wheels as "rims" ourselves.

Speaking of wheels, have you checked out the latest and greatest additions to our Tire Rack inventory of aftermarket wheels? Breyton rolled out a new line—BE by Breyton—and they're fairly sleek.

You can shop our entire inventory in the Upgrade Garage, where you'll get to see different wheels on your vehicle—well, at least a visual representation of it since we can't come down to your real garage with our wheels. This is the next best thing! Take a look.

Drive like a "rockstar" with these KMC Wheels.

Thursday, July 15, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
The 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Coupe at right is a sleek and powerful vehicle. But when you add an equally impressive set of aftermarket Mustang rims, it's hard to believe, but the vehicle manages to look even sleeker.

The particular wheels you see at right are Rockstar Car wheels from KMC, so named because the brand gets its inspiration from an elite group of famous musicians and actors. The Rockstar Car is a new wheel at Tire Rack, and we're very excited about its aesthetics.

In fact, we are so excited that we decided to carry it in a version made specifically for lifted trucks and SUVs, too. The Rockstar is part of KMC's XD line, which focuses on creating aggressive wheels that work on and off the road.

Shop by vehicle today to see if KMC can outfit your vehicle.

Celebrate 40 Years of BBS Wheels!

Friday, June 18, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
In 1970, BBS rolled out their first aftermarket wheels that promised high quality and excellent performance. Today, 40 years later, BBS continues to make those same promises—and drivers everywhere continue to support the brand, making it a true leader in the aftermarket wheel industry. And on the track.

BBS has won more races (and in a wider range of categories) than any other wheel manufacturer. From F1 to Rally and Hillclimb vehicles, even GP
Motorcycles—BBS knows what it takes to cross the finish line. And they've always applied that knowledge to every aftermarket wheel they create. This is certainly a quality standard Tire Rack can appreciate, which is why we've always stocked a great selection of BBS rims.

Capture the essence of motosports—shop by vehicle to find your perfect set of BBS aftermarket wheels.

Ever wonder why aftermarket wheels are so great?

Thursday, June 17, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
Visually speaking, the answer to that question is fairly obvious. But there's more to an aftermarket wheel than simply the good looks. Aftermarket alloy wheels produce a number of performance benefits for your vehicle, starting with reduced unsprung weight compared to steel wheels. What is unsprung weight? Any portion of your vehicle not supported by the suspension system. Without that support, those components get hit with road shock and cornering forces. To combat that, wheels make steering precise and improve "turning in" characteristics.

Aftermarket rims are also lighter than steel rims, which helps reduce the overall weight of your car. Clearly a lighter car handles much easier than one with significant weight to it. In addition, alloy wheels are quite strong. And strong wheels support your tires in the corner.

Finally, alloy wheels are made with metals that conduct heat most excellently. Heat is moved away from the brakes, which reduces brake fade. And often, alloy wheels are designed in a way that allows air to flow away from the brakes a little easier.

Still wonder why aftermarket wheels are so great? Let's go back to that visual note. Play around in the Upgrade Garage to see what some of Tire Rack's best aftermarket wheels look like on your vehicle. You just might find yourself sold on a particular set from one of our manufacturers. A list that includes BBS, moda, MSW and more.

We're not just another tire website.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
Tire Rack is your complete source for all things auto tires and wheels. Aside from our collection of rims and tires online, you'll find first-hand product reviews from our sales specialists and Tire Rack consumers alike. We essentially don't hold anything back so that you can make the best purchase possible. And so that you can feel comfortable doing so.

In fact, now is most definitely the time to buy. With the onset of spring, we rolled out (pardon the pun) our biggest and best collection of aftermarket rims and tires to date...and a few other new things, too. Like car suspension products, a brake system upgrade and even a few engine tuning products.

Click here to see it all.

Considering chrome rims?

Monday, April 12, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
Chrome rims certainly do make an impression. They're shiny, and have a reputation for making a stylish statement. We put Avarus AV4 chrome wheels on the Lincoln at right, and they're just one of many chrome options we have at Tire Rack.

One thing to think about with chrome wheels, and actually any aftermarket wheels, is the need for wheel-specific cleaning supplies. Purchasing aftermarket wheels can be an investment, and just like any other type of investment, you'll want to protect your assets by cleaning them correctly. From lambskin mitts to the Griot's Garage Chrome Wheel Care Kit, make sure your garage is stocked—and make sure your chrome wheels shine like they're brand new.

Search our entire inventory of wheels to find chrome options that are right for your vehicle. (This could, quite possibly, be our best inventory of aftermarket wheels to date! Tons of new options!)


 

Consider ASA rims when outfitting your 2010 Audi S4.

Thursday, April 8, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
The Audi S4 is pretty easy on the eyes, but if you upgrade to aftermarket wheels, it can be even more impressive—and who doesn't like to turn a few heads driving down the road?! We chose a set of ASA wheels for the 2010 above. ASA GT1 wheels, to be specific. At Tire Rack, we work with a lot of wheel manufacturers and ASA always comes through with high quality wheels. They're exotic, elegant and exciting. Much like the Audi itself.

Use our Upgrade Garage to see a visual representation of these wheels on your vehicle. You can also choose from other ASA wheels, too. And if you're really feeling the aftermarket itch, you can check out Audi tires from some of our reputable tire manufacturers, too.




Bremmer Kraft wheels look especially great on German vehicles.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010 by Tire Rack Team

If you're looking for BMW rims, maybe Mercedes rims, or if you drive a Volkswagen or Audi, you might want to look at Bremmer Kraft wheels as an aftermarket upgrade.

Bremmer Kraft wheels are manufactured with strict quality control standards to produce a very reliable wheel. And as your online wheels and tires store, we feel completely comfortable suggesting them as an attractive option for your vehicle.

We recently added the following to our collection:

The BR05 wheel comes in black with a machined lip (left) or bright silver paint (right) finishes. A quick search according to vehicle will help you determine if these would work for you, or you can check out our entire collection of Bremmer Kraft wheels. You'll find size and pricing information for every option we've got.

Looking for strength and style? Try MSW rims.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
Cutting edge design meets precise manufacturing in a set of MSW rims. No matter what you drive, installing a set of MSW wheels instantly upgrades the style of your vehicle. 

Check out the MINI Cooper at left. The addition of 17" MSW Type 16 rims makes for an eye-catching, unique twist on an already impressive vehicle. Let it be known, however, that the benefits aren't purely aesthetic.

Aftermarket wheels make it really easy for you to switch out tires between seasons.

Keep your summer tires installed on your MSW wheels, then swap out the whole set for your winter / snow Tire & Wheel Package when the weather turns—doing so protects your MSW wheels from harmful salt and ice, and it also saves you time and money by cutting down the installation process.

Check out Tire Rack's complete collection of MSW wheels, or select your vehicle for a customized list. (Looking for MINI Cooper tires as well? Start here to complete a Tire & Wheel Package.)

Wheel Clearance = Affordable Wheels

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 by Tire Rack Team
We understand that a wheel purchase isn't always an inexpensive purchase. Though aftermarket wheel benefits are worth every penny, sticker shock still exists. So at Tire Rack, we do our best to help you out whenever possible. And right now, you can find a number of our wheels on the clearance rack.

Find wheels for snow tires. Search reputable brands like MSW Wheels and Sport Edition Wheels, Borbet rims and more. Push the savings even further by searching tire and wheel sets. With a discounted wheel, these packages are even more affordable in the long run.

Start your search by vehicle today. See how much you can save...