2009 Custom Wheels & Tires Guide

Wheels are available in a variety of finishes, you should pick something that best reflects your needs. They can be plated, polished, anodized, or powdercoated, and some wheels need more maintenance than others. If you like shiny rims, you have a choice between polished and chromed aluminum or steel wheel finishes, including silver or gold plating. Some companies offer their rims in any color you'd like. These wheels are typically powdercoated or painted, but some colors, including matte black and bronze, are available as an anodized finish. Of all the options, polished bare aluminum wheels require the most maintenance because they can become oxidized and require repolishing. That's why many polished aluminum wheels are finished with clearcoat paint. As a rule, plated, painted, and powdercoated wheels need only regular washing and sometimes a good wheel cleaner to remove built up brake dust.

One important thing is to read the manufacturer's recommended cleaning instructions. Some wheels can react in a bad way to some of the chemical cleaners that are out in the market today, and they ruin wheels. Don't ever cut corners by trying to save yourself a buck because it can cost you hundreds of dollars in repairs. Always read the cleaners before spraying them on your wheels. Custom wheels and tires are among some of the most expensive accessories that you'll buy for your ride. The most important thing is that you should be an informed shopper and not jump into buying a set of wheels without doing a little research.

As far as the tire part of this guide goes, it's safe to say that it's getting harder and harder to find a good tire for your wire wheel. Most of our favorite tires are disappearing. The reason being because OEM manufacturers are turning their backs on the smaller tires and are looking at the benefits of the plus sizes. Most of today's manufacturers are building their cars with stock 15-inch wheels because these wheels improve the handling, making the 13- and 14-inch wheel obsolete. If you love your radials, the way we love our 5.20s, you should probably stock up on a set until the tire industry figures out what they're going to do with our classic cars, or until somebody steps up to the plate to fill the nation's void.

So, arm yourself through this guide with as much information as possible before you drop major money for those stylish new wheels. You'll be less likely to have problems and you'll be much happier down the road. We hope that these pointers help you out with your wheel shopping selection. Now, let us help you pick the right wheel or tire for your ride with our 2009 Tire and Wheel guide.

By Saul Vargas

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