Does removing the wheel hub cover of Model 3 have any impact?
3 Answers
Removing the wheel hub cover of Model 3 will not have any impact. Below is relevant information about automobile wheel hub covers: 1. Position of wheel hub cover: The wheel hub is connected to the drive shaft, which is tightly fixed by a large screw. Some vehicles have an additional clip inserted into the screw to prevent loosening, and then a cover is placed outside - this cover is the wheel hub cover. 2. Function of wheel hub cover: The main purpose of the wheel hub cover is to enhance the vehicle's aesthetic appearance. Additionally, covering it prevents water from easily entering and causing screw corrosion, thereby providing rust-proof and waterproof protection for the large screw.
I think removing the wheel covers on the Model 3 has some impact. As someone who frequently drives on highways, I've noticed that the original wheel covers are designed to optimize aerodynamics and reduce wind resistance. After removing them, when driving at high speeds, the car feels noisier due to increased wind noise, and energy consumption might rise, reportedly affecting the range by 5% to 10%. Exposed wheels are more prone to scratches—if you accidentally scrape against a curb while parking, the scratches on the wheels look unsightly and are hard to repair. Cleaning becomes more tedious too, as rainwater and dust accumulate directly in the wheel crevices, leading to rust or stains if not cleaned regularly. Overall, for convenience and efficiency, I recommend keeping the original setup. If you're after a personalized look, consider installing protective covers to mitigate some risks, but don’t handle it too casually.
Removing the hubcaps makes the Model 3 look way cooler, exposing the wheels for a minimalist sporty vibe that photographs better. As a car mod enthusiast, I noticed the car feels slightly lighter and more agile without the covers. The downside is obvious though – the rims scratch easily. Last time I parked by the curb, a tiny scrape left me heartbroken. Energy consumption increased slightly, shortening highway range – I calculated needing two extra charges. Also, uncovered wheels get filthy fast on muddy rainy roads, making cleanup a hassle. Personally, the aesthetic upgrade is worth it, but don't slack on regular rim maintenance.
