Car rims also generally carry the name wheel rims. The different types of rims are spinning rims, chrome rimes, truck rims, American racing rims or custom rims. These rims do differ in design, price, size, weight and mounting options. The lighter the rims are in weight, the overall road performance of the vehicle gets improved.

Car rims are vital parts for the handling and performance of the vehicle. The wheel styles range from regular 5 spoke alloy wheels and wire wheels to the latest chrome spinning wheels. Many car owners try custom designed rims which enhances the look of a vehicle and lends it a bit of exclusivity.

Earlier car models used to carry steel rims. They were too heavy, adding unnecessary weight to the car, reducing the performance. Modern rims are more sleek and aerodynamic. Alloy wheels are a good choice for city commuting and are most common in the mainstream market. These wheels are light, dissipate heat rapidly and results in improved mileage.

Chrome wheel rims are generally popular among the car users due to their shiny exterior. Many other types of alloy rims have been introduced in the last decade. Custom alloy rims include magnesium rims that are x-rayed and heat tempered to ensure that they look good and are durable.

The size of the rim gets increased with the size of the car. Smaller cars carry rims that are 13 inches in diameter. Larger vehicles carry rims that can go up to 27 inches and beyond. Rear wheel drives vehicles typically need rims 2 inches larger in diameter than front wheel drive vehicles.

Increasing the size of the rim enhances the look, as well as the performance of the vehicle. “Plus sizing” is a term that refers to increasing the size of the car rim in proportion to the wheel. Plus sizing helps the driver in giving a better steering response and the ability to handle corners more efficiently. A larger surface area of the wheel arrives in contact with the road when the size of the rim is increased.

One of the latest trends today is car rims that carry spinners. These rims cause an optical illusion. The wheel seems as though it is still spinning when a vehicle is stationary. These wheels are designed to attract an onlooker’s attention. They don’t have any specific utility value, but are popular nonetheless.

Industry statistics show that one third of automobile consumers prefer to buy used cars as compared to investing in a new one. With the demand so high it is obvious that the consumer should be aware of the choices available to him. 
To help consumers make informed decisions in the process, here is a basic list of the things to check when buying a used car.

1. Vehicle’s safety features.

Make safety your primary concern. Older vehicles may not come equipped with airbags, child safety seats, seat belts, anti-lock brakes or security systems. Always give consideration to a vehicle with air bags and anti-lock brakes. They will not only make a car safer, but insurance companies sometimes give discounts on their rates for cars with these features.

2. Mileage of the vehicle.

Mileage is a good indication of the vehicle’s age. An average consumer drives from 12,000 miles to 15,000 miles each year. A late model used car is more lucrative and may come with many features that you might not be able to have the funds for in a new car.

3. The mechanical condition of the vehicle.

Check the mechanical condition of the vehicle. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, have a mechanic you trust inspect the car meticulously and in detail before you purchase it. Fluids, lights, the charging system, the air conditioner, power steering, the engine cooling system, the brakes and the suspension must be carefully inspected for any defects and wear. If the seller will not let you look over the car, do not buy it. Remember to inspect the used car in daylight and good weather.

4. Other parts to check: 

-look at the tires, scan for wheel alignment.
-check for rust around the fenders and bumpers, around lights, under doors and in wheel wells
-watch out for cracks, dents and mismatched body panels

5. Compare the prices.

After thoroughly checking the condition of the used car, it is time to find out what comparable prices are for similar vehicles in your area. The actual price of the car is only one of many factors that will decide your total price. You must compare financing rates, warranty costs, trade-in values and processing fees. The various features in the car will also make a difference in the price. If it the most up to date model, it will have the latest features in it. Hence it will be more expensive.

With such thorough research, you should be able to buy a reliable used car which will serve you for many years to come. Happy hunting!!!!