Do I Need to Replace the Wheel Hub When Changing Tires?
3 Answers
When changing tires, it is not always necessary to replace the wheel hub as well, provided that the hub is undamaged. In such cases, you only need to replace the tires with ones that match the original size and specifications of the vehicle when it left the factory. There is no need to replace the wheel hub at the same time. However, installing tires that do not comply with regulations can significantly impact the vehicle's driving quality and even compromise driving safety, posing substantial safety risks. Tires, being the components that directly contact the ground, bear the weight of the vehicle body and provide the necessary friction for driving, operate under extremely harsh conditions. They are not only exposed to sun and rain but also endure extreme cold in winter and high temperatures in summer. Under such demanding conditions, even the best tires are prone to aging and damage. Generally, tires should be replaced promptly when they show signs of severe aging or damage.
I found that the wheel rims are not replaced every time when changing tires. Most of the time, if the tires are worn out, you just need to replace them with new ones, and the rims can continue to be used as long as there are no issues. For example, my own car has been driven for eight years, with three tire replacements, and the rims have never been changed; as long as they are not deformed, rusted, or cracked, there’s no need to replace them. However, once a friend’s car rim was deformed after hitting a curb, and the mechanic said the rim had to be replaced along with the tire, otherwise the tire wouldn’t seal properly and would leak air. During every maintenance session, I remind the repair shop to check the condition of the rims—safety comes first. From a cost perspective, replacing rims can cost several thousand yuan extra, which is too expensive, so most people don’t need to spend money unnecessarily.
I think the decision to replace tires and rims should be based on safety considerations. If there's any damage to the rim, such as cracks or deformation, even minor ones, it must be replaced; otherwise, it could lead to a tire blowout at high speeds, which is extremely risky. Last time, I experienced a slightly bent rim that went unnoticed. After installing new tires, I always felt uneven vibrations. Upon returning to the shop for inspection, I found out the rim had to be replaced. It's advisable to thoroughly check the rims every time you change tires and have them evaluated by a professional shop. Don't skimp on these small matters to avoid major disasters. Good rims ensure stable tire pressure and reduce the likelihood of accidents, making them worth serious attention.
