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What’s the difference between wheels vs. rims?
I’m trying to get familiar with the different parts of a car and I’m wondering if the wheels and rims are the same.
Tiffany Leung · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Good question since the two terms always get used interchangeably! The rim is just one part of a wheel, whereas the wheel is made up of the rim, disc, and hub.
To help you understand the wheel better, here is what each part of the wheel does:
- Rim: This is the outer edge that holds the tire to the wheel. Its main function is to support the wheel and ensure that the tire is fitted properly to retain the air inside.
- Disc: The disc connects the rim to the axle hub. The rim and disc can be detachable or permanently joined together.
- Hub: This is the wheelbase with studs. It attaches the wheel to the suspension.
You may notice that your wheels get dirty after driving for a while. This is from the brake dust and being exposed to the elements (mud and rain). You should clean and polish your wheels regularly to ensure they stay in tip-top shape and prevent them from rusting.
The best way to clean your wheels is to use a pressure washer to remove as much brake dust as possible, then scrub them with your favorite wheel cleaner. You can use a soft-bristled wheel brush to tackle stubborn particles. Rinse, dry, and seal the wheels once you’re done.
Of course, even with the most meticulous care, your car and wheels could be damaged by unexpected events like a flood. This is why it’s important to have
car insurance
—and there’s no easier way to find the perfect coverage than with Jerry
.It’s this simple: download the Jerry app and answer a few questions. In less than 45 seconds, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer and presents you with competitive quotes from top insurance companies. Jerry takes care of securing your new policy and helps you cancel your old one—no hassles.
MORE: How to polish aluminum wheels
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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