Mag Wheels

Alloy wheels, also called mag wheels, are manufactured using light metals. Usually, they are made of aluminum with a few other elements.

Thanks to the lightweight design of these wheels, performance, and handling are improved by reducing stopping distances, increasing acceleration, and minimizing strain on the vehicle’s suspension.  

If you commonly drive in extreme conditions, alloy wheels are much better at dissipating the heat from braking components when compared to the alternative.

While steel wheels are more affordable than alloy, mag wheels still have several benefits to offer.

For people who aren’t sure what alloy wheels have to offer, keep reading. Here you can learn more about the advantages they provide and why spending a little more may be the best option.

An Introduction to Mag (Alloy) Wheels

Alloy wheels are a general term used by manufacturers to describe wheel rims made of alloys, including Magnesium or Aluminum. Sometimes both are used.

Since magnesium is the most important element, many people refer to these as “mag wheels.” In most cases, alloy wheels will be forged from different aluminum alloys. While this is true, some are also cast using magnesium alloys, like those offered by https://www.ozzytyres.com.au/news/mag-wheels-sydney-sale/, which provide additional ductility and strength.

In past years, wheels for vehicles were made from steel. This was thanks to steel’s strength and durability. It also had an attractive appearance.

However, with increased demands from various motorsport companies, it has been discovered that alloy wheels offer several benefits. This has led to an increase in demand among private vehicle owners and the commercial market.

The prices for alloy wheels were higher initially, and they are still more expensive than steel. While this is true, the prices have started to drop as demand has increased.

The Top Benefits of Mag Wheels

Now that you understand what mag wheels are, it is time to dive into the benefits they offer. Find the top benefits of this material below.

Improved Fuel Efficiency

As mentioned above, alloy wheels are much lighter than steel wheels. When your vehicle is lighter, it consumes less fuel.

Because of this, some people even choose to install alloy wheels on their spare tires.

Really, this comes down to simple physics. More force is required to move heavier objects.

On the flip side, less force is necessary for moving objects that weigh less.

More Aesthetic Appeal

No matter how well they are made, steel wheels will never look as good as alloy wheels do. The cosmetic upgrade and the improved visual impact of alloy wheels are the main reasons vehicle owners choose these.

Improved Vehicle Performance

Looks and fuel efficiency are not the only benefits offered by alloy wheels. When installed, they may also improve overall vehicle performance.

As mentioned above, alloy wheels are lighter than steel ones. Because of this, it improves your vehicle’s acceleration and braking.

Handling and steering may also be improved with alloy wheels. When wheels are lighter, it will also limit the wear and tear on your vehicle’s other components. This includes essential components, including the suspension system, transmission, and engine.

Alloy wheels also help better heat dissipation and conduction. This results in much better braking.

Enhanced heat dissipation properties keep tires from wearing out sooner than they should, as well. This is because they remain cooler.

Free from Rust and Corrosion

With alloy wheels, you have a material that can withstand rust and corrosion. This is true for aluminum or magnesium alloys.

This material ensures your wheels are impervious to corrosion and rust compared to the steel counterparts.

Improved Engine Durability

Again, when the weight of your vehicle is reduced with alloy wheels, less pressure is put on your engine. This will help improve overall efficiency and durability.

While this is true, opting for steel wheels doesn’t mean that durability is reduced. Remember, wheel manufacturers are testing wheels extensively to ensure they are efficient and minimize wear and tear on your vehicle.

However, alloy wheels are still better at reducing wear and tear.

Work with Tubeless Tires

Alloy wheels will be totally airtight. Because of this, they work well with tubeless tires.

With steel wheels, this is not possible. That is because minute losses of pressure are lost when they are used with tubeless tires.

Suspension Benefits

Your vehicle’s suspension system is an important part of your vehicle’s performance. With the lightweight alloy wheels, there is less pressure exerted on the suspension.

This helps you always ride comfortably. It also helps to minimize wear and tear on suspension components, helping them last longer.

Customization Options

Standard steel wheels are offered in the same design, no matter what vehicle you purchase. However, alloy wheels offer unique designs and customization options.

If you want to ensure your vehicle has a personalized look and “vibe,” then choosing alloy wheels is the best option.

Acceleration Considerations

When your vehicle weighs less, it means you can accelerate faster. You have likely seen this in professional races or the movies. Cars are designed with the bare minimum of everything.

In many cases, the backseats are even taken out. All this is done to help improve maneuverability and acceleration. Since alloy wheels are lighter overall, your vehicle’s acceleration will improve.

Potential Disadvantages of Mag Wheels

As you can see, there are countless benefits offered by alloy or mag wheels. While this is true, there are some potential downsides you should be aware of.

Understanding the pros and cons of alloy wheels will help you decide if this is an investment you want to make.

Reduced Strength

It has been proven that steel wheels are much stronger than alloy wheels. Because of this, steel wheels can handle more impact before they crack or bend.

Allow wheels may crack or bend if they face harsh conditions or extreme road surfaces. Because of this, you must consider the options carefully when choosing wheels.

There are many areas where bad roads are present, which means you may want to purchase steel just for the additional strength and durability they offer.

More Expensive to Buy and Repair

If you compare the costs of buying and repairing alloy wheels to steel wheels, steel is much more affordable.

Even manufacturing alloy wheels are more expensive. This is because the process is more complex.

Due to these reasons, alloy wheels cost much more than steel options. If damage occurs to alloy wheels, you will also face higher repair charges than the cost of repairing steel.

Damage Potential

Alloy wheels are more susceptible to cosmetic damage. Even cleaning the wheels or tires can cause damage.

Because of this, you need to make sure you are purchasing items considered compatible with the material.

If you aren’t sure, it may be best to leave the cleaning of your alloy wheels to the professionals.

Attract Thieves

Alloy wheels are better looking and more expensive than steel wheels. Because of this, they tend to attract the wrong type of attention in many cases.

If you choose to purchase mag wheels and install them on your vehicle, be sure you take steps to protect them. This includes using locking nuts or something similar.

Insurance

Installing alloy wheels on your vehicle is considered a modification. Because of this, you must let your insurer know all about it.

While each situation is different and depends on the current premium you pay, the wheels may increase the amount you pay. If you fail to let your insurer know about this, it may invalidate your insurance. As a result, you need to modify known.

Tips for Buying Alloy Wheels

If you have decided that alloy or mag wheels are right for your vehicle, there are a few things to know. With the tips here, you can feel confident in the purchase you make.

Size Considerations

Do you know what size alloy wheels you want? If so, searching based on size is the easiest way to see what options are compatible.

Alloys will be listed by inches. The smallest available is 10 inches, and the biggest is 30 inches.

The Fit

There are two essential things to consider when it comes to the fit of wheels. These include:

PCD – Pitch Circle Diameter

With the PCD, you measure the stud pattern. One example of PCD is four by 100. This means there are four holes in the wheel located 100mm from each other.

The measurement is determined by drawing a circle through the bolt holes and then figuring out the diameter.

Offset

Offset refers to the measurement from the imaginary center line of the wheel to the mounting face. Usually, it is displayed as ET.

For newer vehicles, the offset is usually positive. This means the mounting face is forward from the centerline. It also means the wheel sits further under the car’s body.

Some 4×4 and older vehicles will have a negative offset. This will push the wheel away from the vehicle’s body.

Some aftermarket wheels come with a lower offset than the standard wheels that come with the vehicle. This is done to ensure everything fits properly.

Aesthetic Appeal

You must determine what style of wheel you want. Some people choose alloy wheels to enhance their vehicle visually.

Some of the things to consider when selecting your alloy wheels include:

  • Color
  • Finish
  • Spoke pattern

The most popular colors for alloy wheels are silver and black. When it comes to finish, polished, matte, or gloss faces are the most seen.

Spoke pattern offers the most options. You can purchase simple five-spoke designs or more intricate crosswire designs. Keep in mind that the design and style you choose will dictate the frequency you must maintain and clean the wheels.

If you choose a polished finish, they will require the most care and attention. It is a good idea to use a traditional washing liquid and soft sponge or cloth with these. Avoid any cleaners that have harsh chemicals as they can damage the finish on your alloy wheels.

Value

In the modern financial climate, most people consider cost over most other things. Alloy wheels are considered luxury accessories. They are purchased because you want them, not because you need them.

Since this is the case, no matter what you choose, it will represent an investment. The more detailed and intricate, the higher the cost will be.

Buying and Fitting Alloy Wheels

To ensure you get the desired results, you need to make sure the wheels are fitted to your vehicle. To do this, there are a few steps to take.

Find and Buy the Right Wheels

Be sure you purchase alloy wheels that are the right size. They should also be completely compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.

Arrange Fitting

After purchasing the alloy wheels you want, you will have them delivered to a garage. Most people don’t have them delivered to their house because putting them on is not typically a DIY job.

Go to the Fitting

After your wheels arrive, you should take your vehicle to be fitted. The amount of time it takes depends on who is handling the job.

Getting the Mag Wheels You Want

As you can see, when it comes to mag wheels, they offer many benefits over traditional steel wheels. While this is true, there are still considerations you must make to ensure they are right for your vehicle and budget.

Are you searching for more car-related information and guides? If so, be sure to read our other blogs. Our team is dedicated to all things automotive, which means we have the answers you are searching for.