What You Need to Know About Center Caps
A car's center cap is a small detail that's usually hidden beneath a wheel, but when it's missing, the difference in appearance can be dramatic.center caps Not only does it give the vehicle a run-down look, but some potential buyers may suspect the rest of the car was less well cared for as a result.
Although they're not as common as the hubcaps of yesteryear, today's center caps offer many style and function choices.center caps If you're planning on replacing your wheels with center caps, it's important to determine the correct size, mounting type and brand for your rims. If you're not sure, a professional tire specialist can assist you.
The term "center cap" is sometimes used interchangeably with "wheel cover," but it's a more accurate description of the actual product.center caps A wheel cover is a decorative disk that covers the entire outside of a wheel, while center caps are designed to snap in place within the inner hub of a vehicle's wheel. They also serve to hide lug nuts, or bolts, from view once they're snapped in place.
There are three main types of center caps. The first type is the most common and the smallest, most traditional-looking of the bunch. These are typically found on newer aluminum wheels and snap into place in the center of a wheel. They sit flush with the rim and fully cover lug nuts once snapped in place.
A second type of center cap is a larger piece that's integrated into the design of a wheel. These are found on most American cars from the '40s to the '80s and usually include a design element or a continuation of a stylized wheel design. Some of these are basic in appearance while others incorporate a logo or other design element that's unique to the vehicle maker.
Finally, there are also some purely functional center caps. These are typically smaller than the other two and can be used to help protect the wheel from road debris and other hazards. These are often sold as spares for older vehicles that have been driven off-road, or they can be added to a vehicle with steel wheels as a safety precaution in drag racing competition. They're known as "moon" or "racing disc" hubcaps and are most commonly made from spun aluminum.