by Scott Sowers
Wheels and wheel design have been evolving since cars were invented. Consider modern wheel design "automotive art" involving skilled craftsmen who dream up fresh designs every year.
For the driver, this means performance is always improving and that there are many choices when shopping for a new set of car wheels.
Sometimes called "rims," your wheels are the anchor for your tires and are bolted to your wheel rotors or drums, which are attached to the axle of your car. Wheels can be exposed for visual effect or hidden by hubcaps that attach to the wheel with lug nuts or clips.
Wheels are designed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) — meaning the people who built the car — or by specialty companies that provide replacement parts and components. Those in the latter are collectively referred to as the "aftermarket" and they consist of parts stores, retailers and online sources, including Sears Automotive Centers.
Wheels can be designed using a "casting" process where hot liquid metal is poured into a mold. After cooling, the molds are broken and the wheel removed.
Wheels designed to provide higher performance or a custom look may be "forged." In the forging process, a solid piece of metal is shaped using presses and power hammers. Forged wheels are generally more expensive, but also stronger than those that aren't forged.
Various materials are used in modern car wheels, the most popular being steel. The steel can be finished in several ways, including painting or adding a coat of chrome with an electroplating process that attaches to metal surfaces.
Aluminum alloys are also used in wheels and they provide more choices and varied looks.
Dealers often offer cutting-edge OEM designs, while the aftermarket continues to take wheel design into un-chartered territory. Accents such as decorative or functional hardware can dress up the wheel, as can a zinc, cadmium or even matte finish. Some designs feature spokes, slots, a ring of decorative blots around the tire line or contrasting colors.
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