What type of wheels are commonly used in sedans?
2 Answers
In sedans, aluminum alloy wheels are commonly used. Here are the advantages of aluminum alloy wheels: Better Heat Dissipation: The thermal conductivity of aluminum alloy is three times higher than that of steel. During driving, friction between the tires and the road, as well as between the brake discs and brake pads, generates significant heat. This can lead to aging and accelerated wear of tires and brake pads, a sharp decline in braking performance due to high temperatures, and increased tire pressure, posing a risk of blowouts. Lighter Weight: Aluminum alloy wheels have a lower density than steel wheels. On average, each aluminum alloy wheel is about 2 kilograms lighter than a steel wheel of the same size. Excluding the spare wheel, this can reduce the total weight by approximately 8 kilograms. Lighter wheels also reduce resistance during acceleration, contributing to better fuel efficiency. Higher Precision: Aluminum alloy wheels are cast with much higher precision than steel wheels. They exhibit less out-of-roundness and imbalance. Additionally, aluminum alloy has a lower elastic modulus, providing better vibration resistance compared to steel wheels. These factors effectively reduce vehicle vibrations, enhancing driving comfort. More Aesthetic Appeal: Aluminum alloy exhibits better fluidity and tension than steel in high-temperature liquid states. Subsequent polishing and electroplating processes allow for more varied and attractive designs. Surface corrosion resistance treatments and electrostatic powder coating also ensure long-lasting appearance.
I've been in the automotive repair business for over twenty years and have seen wheel cylinders on cars, which are mainly used for the drum brake systems on the rear wheels. The most common type is the hydraulic dual-piston design—simple and reliable in structure. Brake fluid enters through the tubes, pushing the pistons to press the brake shoes and slow the car down. In economy cars I've worked on, like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, this setup is often used for the rear wheels because it's cost-effective and durable. However, be aware that if the wheel cylinder leaks or the pistons seize, braking performance weakens—like feeling a spongy pedal that's hard to press. I recommend checking the brake fluid condition every two years, as dust buildup can easily lead to malfunctions. While disc brakes with calipers are more common for the front wheels, drum brakes for the rear wheels are still widespread, so wheel cylinders remain common in regular cars. Keeping the brake system clean can extend the wheel cylinder's lifespan—safety is not something to take lightly.
