There are many different parts to a car. Each individual part has its purpose for being on the car whether it is cosmetic appeal or essential to making sure the car runs the way it should. One of the most important parts of a car is the tire. There are many different parts to the tire, each having their own purpose such as the bolts, the rims, the rubber, and of course, the hubcap. The thing about a hubcap is that not very many people know why they are on the tire, and how much they even matter. There are two basic roles of the hubcap and each matter for their own respective purposes.
The Look of the Tire
One thing that people are especially conscience of is the overall look of their vehicle. Cars are sold both new and used in usually great condition. When a driver hits a curb or anything hard enough with their tire, the hubcap can come off or even become cracked. Without the wheel cover or hubcap in place, the tire does look different, but the vehicle can still be driven without it. However, many drivers do not like the way their vehicle looks without the cover on as it does not match the other tires on the car and just looks less sleek and finished. Many people love to buy decorative covers of all different colors and movement. This adds a different kind of style that is seen by everyone who sees the car and sets it apart from all the other vehicles on the road.
Covering the Hub
The original purpose of the hubcap was to cover the center portion of the wheel, or the hub, where the steel spokes all meet together. The original design was used until about 1932 and then manufacturers started making them more decorative. However, the original purpose still remains. These spokes can be dangerous and also vulnerable to catching debris. Having the cover helps to prevent any kind of damage. Another thing the wheel cover can protect is the bolts holding the tire on. For those vehicle owners that do not have their tires rotated routinely, bolts can rust onto the tire and become very difficult to remove. It can also hold bolts inside the cover when they come off, rattling loudly to alert you that the tire is coming off.
To Cover or Not
Choosing to leave the hubcap or wheel cover off is a personal choice, but there are some reasons that people choose to replace it. When one thing looks amiss from the rest of the car, there is a change in attitude towards the vehicle. Things start
slipping cosmetically and there is less desire to fix them because the car is already looking dated and undesirable, so why keep fixing it up? Staying on top of making sure the vehicle looks its best helps the desire to keep it looking at its best.
Replacing the hubcap does not have to be an expensive repair. Finding used hubcaps and wheel covers is really easy to do. Try checking salvage yards, local dealers, or even online sales sites. These can help you find the part you are looking for even including the manufacturer’s symbol so that your caps can all match.
