How to Find Center Caps for Aftermarket Wheels

Investing in aftermarket wheels is one of the most common modifications that owners make to their vehicles. Unlike OEM wheels, however, aftermarket wheels are independently made. This means that they are manufactured to fit multiple vehicles and aren't custom-made for your type of vehicle. This can be an issue when finding center caps for your wheels because getting the right fit is of utmost importance.

Use this guide to learn how to find center caps for aftermarket wheels. 

Can You Change Center Caps on Aftermarket Wheels?

Yes. You can replace the center cap on aftermarket wheels if they come off or after some time of use. 

When this happens, it is important to check the dimensions and actual measurements of the wheel center cap. A center cap that does not fit right could be the reason why it fell off in the first place. Every millimeter counts, so it is important to take exact measurements before you try to find center caps for your aftermarket wheels. 

Replacing the aftermarket wheel center cap is also a bit tricky. You cannot expect OEM caps to fit the aftermarket wheels. Make sure you get ones that are a tailored fit for your set of wheels. 

Are Wheel Center Caps the Same Size?

No. Wheel center caps do not have universal sizes, unlike what most people think. It is important to learn about proper center cap sizing to find the best fit for your set of wheels, especially aftermarket wheels. 

There are various styles and sizes of wheels and center caps alike. It is easy to assume that they look and are sized the same, but a slight difference can be significant. Make sure you know the correct way to measure the center cap size. 

How Do I Know My Center Cap Size?

You do not need a fancy tool to get the measurement of your wheel center cap. A tape measure or ruler will get the job done. 

First, face the opening of the center cap in an upward position. You need to take three measurements for accuracy before buying the center cap, especially for aftermarket wheels. You need the inner diameter, the outer diameter, and the depth of the center cap. 

The inner diameter is the most important and basic measurement to get. It is the distance between the inner walls of the center cap following a straight line. 

Are Wheel Center Caps Necessary?

It might seem like an aesthetic addition because it actually helps cover the center bore (the hole in the middle of a wheel), but center caps are an essential accessory for your vehicle. 

They also protect the spindle nut and wheel bearing. Without a center cap, the spindle nut is exposed, and the wheel bearing is only left with the seal as the last line of defense. This is why a center cap is essential protect your wheels from dust, dirt, debris, and road grime. When these impurities get into the spindle nut and wheel bearing, it can lead to the corrosion and failure of the parts. 

How to Find Center Caps for Aftermarket Wheels

Use this guide to learn how to find center caps for aftermarket wheels.

Step 1: Check the type of wheel center cap. 

You need to physically inspect the existing center cap for your aftermarket wheels. Look for numbers and letters as this will serve as the unique code for that brand and model of center cap. Write that down because you will need it when searching for the exact match of center cap locally or online.

Step 2: Search for the center cap.

The next step is to use the code provided to find the exact center cap for your aftermarket wheels. You can do a quick Google search and input the code on the search engine. This will (hopefully) provide you with a list of options of where you can buy that particular center cap. 

You can also search in local automotive accessory shops. Simply provide the code for the center cap to find the exact match.

Step 3: Check for measurement and dimensions

Go to the website and get the measurements for the center cap. Make sure that they are the same as the actual measurement that you have taken from the existing center cap. 

Will OEM Center Caps Work on Aftermarket Wheels?

Not necessarily. Some might, but this is not guaranteed. The best way to go about it is to check the dimensions of the center cap for your aftermarket wheels and then shop around for new ones. 

There are lots of online and local shops specializing in wheel center caps. You can consult with them about the best cap that is designed for your make and model of vehicle while taking into account that you’re not using the original set of wheels.