Do I Need to Change the Rims When Getting New Tires?
3 Answers
Replacing tires does not require changing the rims. Generally, tires should be replaced promptly when they are severely aged or damaged. However, as long as the rims are undamaged, you only need to replace the tires with the same size and specifications as the original factory tires during replacement. There is no need to replace the rims as well. Here are some considerations for tire replacement: 1. When replacing tires, it is crucial to ensure that the new tires match the original factory tire size and specifications, and that all four tires on the vehicle are of the same size and specifications. If tires that do not meet these requirements are installed, it can significantly impact the vehicle's driving performance and even compromise driving safety, posing serious risks. 2. Since tire replacement alters the mass balance between the tire and rim, an unbalanced wheel can cause severe vibrations when rotating at high speeds, affecting driving safety. Therefore, after replacing tires, it is essential to perform tire dynamic balancing.
Last time I got new tires, the shop technician said the rims didn't need to be replaced at all. Rims last much longer than tires and can hold up for years, unless they're rusted, warped, or you want to upgrade the size. I drive an SUV, and when changing tires, the technician carefully checks if the rims are even, if there are any air leaks, especially around the bolt holes for severe rust. If dents or cracks are found on the rim edges, then it's time for new ones. Otherwise, keeping them as is saves a lot of money. Once I neglected the check, leading to unstable tire pressure affecting the drive. Now I make it a habit to inspect the rim condition with every tire change, cleaning grease off the rim surface to prevent rust. Daily maintenance is simple—just regular cleaning. Fellow car enthusiasts agree that rims don't need to be replaced with tires, only addressing problem spots.
When replacing new tires, the rims generally don't need to be changed. With over a decade of experience in car repair, I often see car owners wasting money unnecessarily. The metal structure of rims is sturdy and can last over 10 years unless they are deformed due to impact or corroded. I always check the rims for damage first: such as uneven mounting surfaces causing air leaks or loose balancing weights affecting wheel speed. If everything is fine, simply installing new tires saves both hassle and money. From a cost perspective, tires cost a few hundred yuan while rims can cost over a thousand, so saving where possible is wise. In the shop, we ensure the rims are clean and free of debris to prevent unstable installation. Car owners should pay attention and perform a simple visual inspection of the rim surface and welds. Don't rush to upgrade sizes, as larger rims can easily cause compatibility issues. From maintenance experience, regularly cleaning the rims can extend their lifespan.
