Automotive Articles, Tutorials & Tips

The following step by step tutorial will guide through the installation or replacement of standard ring retention hubcaps. If your hubcaps are of the bolt on variety this tutorial will not apply to your vehicle. For specific bolt on hubcap instructions please feel free to call one of our Customer Service Representatives toll free at 1(888)482-2279 and they will be more than happy to assist you.

The first step in replacing your old hubcaps is to remove the old, worn or damaged hubcaps. This is actually quite simple. Slide a flat-blade screwdriver under the edge of the hubcap , and lever gently. Working clockwise around the wheel, move to several different spots around the perimeter of the hubcap , levering some at each position until the hubcap begins to slide out toward you. Pretend that you are opening a can of paint, as the actions are the same, and remember you do not want to force the hubcaps off. Hubcaps can take a fair amount of bending, but they will definitely break if you push them too far.

The next step is of course to install your brand new hubcaps . Hubcap installation is fairly easy and should not require significant amount of time or effort. Keep in mind that a standard snap on hubcap uses the tension of a spring steel retention ring, pushing out against the steel wheel, to hold its final position, so be sure that the retention rings are installed. Without the steel retention rings installed correctly the hubcaps will never stay on.

Most hubcaps will arrive with the steel retention rings factory-installed to the hubcap mounting legs. However some sets come with the steel retention rings loose, and you will need to install each retention ring into the slots on the clips around the hubcap . This isn’t hard. The retention ring has a bend designed to go around the valve stem. Orient this bent section of the ring with the hubcap’s notch for the valve stem, then begin inserting the steel retention ring into the slots on the interior side of the mounting legs. Work your way clockwise around the hubcap , inserting the steel retention ring into the slots on the mounting legs until it is completely secure. When properly installed the steel retention ring should be seated in the slots on all of the mounting legs pushing the legs out against the rim.

Finally install your new hubcaps . Simply hold the hubcap parallel to the rim all the way around and begin applying even, gentle pressure with both hands so the hubcap is not tilted away from the rim at any point. Begin increasing the pressure evenly, side to side, top to bottom, and you’ll notice the retention clips will begin to slide into the rim. It is important to try not to let the hubcap get too much away from parallel to the wheel as you ease it into place. If any areas of the steel wheel are rusted, rough, or sticky, you may need to gently punch it in at that point with the heel of your fist. A rubber hammer should not be necessary.

Properly installed hubcaps fit firmly to the wheel all the way around, and should not able to be pulled off using only your two bare hands. If the hubcap does not seat all the way around, do not drive with it. This is a sign of interference by tall lug nuts, hub, or an unusual wheel. If the hubcap will not fit, do not force it, call one of our Customer Service Representatives toll free at 1(888)482-2279 and they will be more than happy to assist you.

I hope this helped… As always, thanks for your continued support of HubcapsPlus and if you have any questions or comments I’m always here!

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Whether you are selling a car on your own or trading it in for a newer one a little sweat equity goes a long way towards making sure you get what it’s really worth.

Replacing old and often times damaged hubcaps is one of the most cost effective things you can do to immediately improve your cars’ appearance, which in turn can increase the value of your car in the buyers mind. We have a huge stock of hubcaps, wheelcovers and chrome wheelskins all available at huge discounts! Everything from factory original hubcaps to universal replacement hubcaps, from spinner hubcaps to center caps are available right here at affordable prices, so definitely replace those old hubcaps… You’ll be glad you did when it comes time to negotiate price!

Next wash the entire car. Rinse off the car first. Next, gently wash it with an automotive cleaner and a soft sponge or wash mitt. (Don’t use dish detergent as it can be harmful to your paint) Be sure to rinse as you wash, too, so the soap does not dry on your car. Then dry the car with a clean, soft towel. Be sure to clean the tires too, and apply a dressing… We reccomend a product like Extreme Black, since it is water-based and will not sling up onto your car like so many other tire dressings do. You can use WD-40 on the wheel wells by spraying it on, letting it dry, and then wiping it off. A little elbow grease can really improve the looks of your tires. Finally, don’t forget to wax your car to give the exterior that polished look. When you’re selling a car, the first impression of the outside can make a huge difference!

Cleaning out your car is a must. The first thing you should do is clean out the junk. Throw away trash and anything else that you’ve been storing in your car. Dig down into the seats to remove all of the food, change and miscellaneous items that have accumulated. Next, wipe down and condition all of the surfaces inside your car again Extreme Black is perfect for this. This will give the interior a nice, clean look. Then using a window cleaner, clean all of the windows, both inside and out. Don’t forget to clean the mirrors, too. Make sure you Vacuum, and… Not just the carpets, but also the seats and crevices. Replacing the existing ratty floormats with a new set like the replacement floor mats we have available. It’s much easier than trying to clean your existing floor mats, and you won’t have to worry about them being thread bare.

Finally if your steering wheel seems damaged, worn or dirty, consider installing a leather wheelskin steering wheel cover. Wheelskins are the best way to inexpensively customize and upgrade any plastic steering wheel. They are also the premier option for replacing a damaged or worn original factory leather covered wheel.

Last but by no means least… Be sure all of your fluids are topped off. Check the air in the tires, and add some, if necessary. Make sure any lights or fuses that have burnt out are replaced and remove any bumper stickers on the car.

The bottomline is with a little effort, and a modest investment you can increase your profit when selling or trading in a car. If you have any tips that have worked for you in the past, please share them with us!

As always, thanks for your continued support of HubcapsPlus and if you have any questions or comments I’m always here!

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