Car Wheel Trims – Function, Drawbacks and History
Alloy rims are more attractive than the old-fashioned steel (usually black) rims. But alloy rims are more expensive than steel rims and not every car owner will be willing or able to invest in a set of alloy rims. This is where car wheel trims come in. Wheel trims are the metallic covers that either snap on to or are bolted into place atop a steel car rim.
Many people view trims as fulfilling an aesthetic purpose. However, the trims are functional too in the sense that they protect the rim and wheel nuts from wear and tear caused by water, snow, dust and the sun. And it is not only because of the lower cost of trims when compared to alloy rims that has seen many motorists turn to wheel caps. Another key factor is the wide array of design styles to choose from and the ease of replacement.
The low cost of wheel trims is nevertheless counterbalanced by their far shorter life span when compared to alloy rims. If tyres must be changed, the trims will often have to be pried out of position using a screwdriver, a firm knife or any other sharp, sturdy metal object. Over time, the car wheel trims are likely to crack from such action.
After removal, fitting the trims firmly back into position will ordinarily require a rubber mallet. Many motorists that drive cars featuring wheel trims will not have a mallet as part of their car’s standard tool kit. The result is the caps may not be hold fast when returned to position. The trims will likely detach and get lost or damaged once the car is in motion. And when one trim is lost or unusable, the motorist may be forced to purchase a new set if they want to maintain the car’s aesthetic appeal.
Car wheel trims have an elaborate history. When wheel trims first hit the automobiles market in the 20s and 30s, car manufacturers readily embraced them as a means of pushing their brands in the market. Wheel covers were prominently emblazoned with the logos of the largest car makers of the time. During these early years, wheel trims were made from chromium and heavy steel.
But the onset of the 2nd World War saw growing pressure on steel production. Manufacturers had to switch to aluminium and other light metals. As the war ended, chromium and chromium-plated trims gradually made their way back into the market by the 1950s.
Older and rare trims from the 20s and 30s soon became collector’s items and would attract (and still do) top dollar at antique auctions. Car wheel trims continue to evolve with spinning chromium or gold plated trims a popular trend with younger drivers today.