Putting on wheel covers is a simple way to improve your car’s look. This guide will walk you through installing wheel covers safely and correctly. You might call them hubcaps, and they snap or bolt onto your wheels. They protect your wheels from minor curb damage and give your vehicle a cleaner, more finished appearance. Whether you’re replacing old, cracked covers or adding new ones, the process is straightforward with the right tools and know-how.
Installing Wheel Covers: Step By Step Guide
Before you start, it’s important to gather everything you need. Rushing the job can lead to damaged covers or even a wheel cover flying off while you drive. Taking a few minutes to prepare makes the whole process smoother and safer. Let’s get your car looking sharp.
What You’ll Need for the Job
You won’t need many tools for most installations. Having these items ready will save you time.
- A set of new wheel covers designed for your specific vehicle’s wheel size.
- A clean, soft cloth or towel.
- A rubber mallet (for certain types of covers).
- A flat-head screwdriver or a trim removal tool (for removal only).
- A lug wrench or socket set (for bolt-on covers).
- Some soapy water or a silicone-based lubricant spray (optional, for tight fits).
Step 1: Removing Your Old Wheel Covers
If you have existing covers, you need to take them off carefully. Forcing them can bend the metal retaining rings or scratch your wheels.
For Snap-On Covers
Most modern wheel covers are the snap-on type. They are held in place by spring steel clips around the edge.
- Park your car on a level surface and set the parking brake.
- Insert your flat-head screwdriver or trim tool behind the cover, near the edge. Wrap the tip with a cloth to prevent scratches.
- Gently pry outward until you hear a clip release. Move to a different spot and repeat.
- Work your way around the cover until all clips are free, then pull the cover straight off the wheel.
For Bolt-On Covers
These are less common but are used on some trucks and older models. They are secured by the lug nuts themselves.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel slightly, but do not remove them completely.
- You will see that the cover has lug nut holes. The cover should now be loose enough to remove by hand.
- Pull the cover away from the wheel and set it aside. Then fully tighten the lug nuts back onto the wheel for safety before proceeding.
Step 2: Preparing the Wheel
A clean surface is crucial for a secure fit. Dirt or grime can prevent the cover from seating properly.
- Use your clean cloth to wipe down the face of the wheel. Pay special attention to the outer rim where the cover’s clips will grip.
- Remove any old pieces of broken clips or debris. If the wheel is very dirty, you might want to wash it with soap and water and dry it thoroughly.
- Check the tire pressure while your at it, as it’s easier to see the valve stem with the cover off.
Step 3: Installing the New Wheel Cover
This is the main event. The method depends entirely on the type of cover you have purchased.
Installing Snap-On Covers
These are the easiest to install. The key is alignment and even pressure.
- Hold the new cover facing the wheel. Align the valve stem notch in the cover with the tire’s valve stem. This is your starting point.
- Position the cover over the wheel, ensuring it’s straight. Start by pushing the area near the valve stem onto the wheel until you hear a clip snap into place.
- Using the palms of your hands, apply firm, even pressure around the entire circumference of the cover. Push hard until you hear a series of clicks or snaps. This means all the clips are engaged.
- If the cover is extremely tight, a spritz of soapy water on the wheel rim can help. Avoid using oil or grease. For stubborn covers, you can tap the center gently with the heel of your hand or a rubber mallet padded with a cloth.
Installing Bolt-On Covers
These provide a more secure fit and are common on vehicles with exposed lugs.
- Place the cover over the wheel, aligning the lug nut holes with the wheel studs.
- Hand-thread the lug nuts onto the studs to hold the cover in position. Make sure the cover is sitting flat.
- Using your lug wrench or socket, tighten the lug nuts in a star or criss-cross pattern. This ensures even pressure. Tighten them to your vehicle’s specified torque if possible, but at least until they are very snug.
Step 4: The Final Check
Don’t skip this step! A loose wheel cover can fall off and become a hazard on the road.
- Walk around the car and visually inspect each cover. They should be flush with the tire and have no gaps.
- Give each cover a gentle but firm tug with your hands. It should not move or come loose. If it does, it’s not fully seated.
- For snap-on covers, press again on any areas that seem loose. For bolt-on covers, re-check the tightness of the lug nuts.
- Take a short, slow drive around the block. Listen for any rattling or clicking sounds, which indicate a loose cover. Stop and check if you hear anything unusual.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here’s how to handle common issues.
The Cover Won’t Snap On
If you can’t get all the clips to engage, double-check a few things. First, ensure you have the correct size cover for your wheel. A 16-inch cover will not fit a 17-inch wheel. Second, look for any obstructions on the wheel rim, like a large wheel weight that might be blocking the cover. Finally, try the soapy water trick for lubrication.
The Cover is Loose or Rattles
A rattling cover means it’s not secured. Remove it and inspect the spring steel clips. Are any of them bent or broken? Sometimes, you can gently bend the clips outward slightly to create a tighter grip. Be careful not to break them. Also, re-clean the wheel rim to ensure a good mating surface.
It’s Difficult to Access the Valve Stem
Some covers have a small, flexible flap over the valve stem notch. Others require a special tool. Make sure you can easily access the valve stem to add air. If the cover blocks it, you may need to modify the cover slightly or ensure it’s rotated to the correct position.
Choosing the Right Wheel Covers
If you haven’t bought your covers yet, here’s some quick advice. Always match the cover size to your tire size, which is printed on the sidewall (e.g., P215/60R16 means a 16-inch wheel). Consider the material—plastic is common, but metal covers are more durable. Check the retention system; some have better clip designs than others. Finally, make sure the style complements your vehicle.
Maintenance and Care Tips
To make your new wheel covers last, a little care goes a long way. Clean them regularly with mild soap and water to brake dust and road salt, which can corrode the finish. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes. When washing your car, clean behind the covers occasionally if possible to prevent built-up grime. Inspect the clips for damage every time you rotate your tires.
FAQ Section
Can I install wheel covers myself?
Absolutely. Installing wheel covers is a beginner-friendly DIY task that usually requires no mechanical skill, just some patience and care.
How do I know what size wheel cover to buy?
The size is determined by your wheel diameter. Check your tire’s sidewall for a number like “R16” or “R17″—that’s your wheel size in inches.
Why won’t my new hubcap stay on?
The most common reasons are incorrect size, dirty wheel rims preventing a good seal, or damaged/bent clips on the cover itself. Double-check these areas.
Is it safe to drive without a wheel cover?
Yes, it’s mechanically safe. The wheel cover is purely cosmetic. However, your exposed steel wheel may be more suseptible to rust from road salt over time.
Can you put wheel covers on alloy wheels?
You can, but most people don’t because alloy wheels are designed to be seen. There are specific covers for alloy wheels, often called “wheel skins,” that protect the alloy finish in winter.
How often should I check my wheel covers?
Give them a visual check when you wash your car or check your tire pressure. A quick tug to ensure they’re secure is a good habit.
Following this guide will help you achieve a professional-looking result. With your new wheel covers installed, your car will have a fresh, updated appearance. Remember, the key is a clean wheel and even pressure during installation. Take your time, and you’ll be done in no time.