Rim savers

Types of Rim Savers

Rim savers, also known as rim protectors, are designed to prevent damage to alloy wheels. Their primary purpose is to protect the wheel rims from scratches and dents that can occur during parallel parking or when navigating tight spaces. There are different types of rim savers, including:

• Rim Protector Inserts

  These are often made from durable plastic or rubber materials. Rim protector inserts are designed to be fitted into the wheel. They act as a barrier between the vehicle and the curb. Some rim protector inserts are available in different sizes to ensure a perfect fit.

• Rim Repair Kits

  These kits are designed to fix minor scratches, scuffs, or chips on the wheel rims. Typically, a rim repair kit will contain a color-matching paint, clear coat, and abrasive materials. The abrasive materials are used to remove blemishes and the color-matching paint used to cover up the scratches. Since different cars have different colored rims, the rim repair kits are available in different colors to allow customization.

• Rim Guard

  Rim guard is a term commonly used in North America to refer to a protective coating. This coating is applied on the vehicle's wheel rims to protect them from corrosion and damage. Rim guard is typically made from polyurethane, a material that is highly flexible and durable. The rim guard is available in different colors to allow customization. Rim guard also comes in a spray form, allowing even application.

• Rim Saver Wrenches

  These are specialized tools used for maintenance. The rim saver wrenches are designed to avoid damage to the wheel during the tightening and loosening of the wheel nuts. They usually have sockets made from plastic or other soft materials. The sockets are fitted onto the wheel nut, preventing scratches to the rim during maintenance.

Specifications and Maintenance of Rim Savers

Specifications of Rim Savers

Rim savers have different specifications depending on the vehicle type and size. Here are some of the general specifications of rim savers.

• Material

  Rim savers are made from different materials. The most common one is polyurethane. This material is strong and durable. It can also absorb shock and offer a good fit on the rim. Other materials used to make rim savers are ABS plastic and nylon. ABS plastic is strong and resistant to impact. Nylon on the other hand is a flexible material that can stretch to fit the rim perfectly.

• Size

  Rim savers come in different sizes. The most common ones are between 15 to 20 inches in diameter. The size of the rim saver is important because it determines how it fits on the rim. A properly fitted rim saver offers maximum protection. Apart from the diameter, the width and thickness of the rim saver differ. The width ranges from 5 to 10 mm while the thickness is between 1 to 3 mm.

• Color

  Rim savers are available in different colors. The most common ones are black and grey. There are also bright colors like red, blue, and yellow. The bright colors offer a visible contrast on the rim. Buyers can choose the color depending on their preference.

Maintenance of Rim Savers

Maintaining rim savers is important to ensure they last longer and continue protecting the rims. Here are some of the rim saver maintenance tips.

• Regular Cleaning

  For the rim savers to last long, they should be cleaned often. This prevents the build-up of dirt and brake dust that can make them wear out. When cleaning, use a soft brush with soap and clean water. Avoid harsh chemicals and high-pressure washers because they can damage the rim savers.

• Inspect for Wear and Tear

  Buyers should regularly check the rim savers for any sign of damage. In case they notice any wear and tear, they should replace the rim savers immediately. This will prevent the rims from getting damaged.

• Proper Installation

  When installing rim savers, buyers should follow the manufacturer's instructions. This ensures they are fitted properly on the rims and offer maximum protection. Apart from following the instructions, buyers should also make sure the rim savers are not loose or wobbly. If they notice this, they should remove and reinstall the rim savers again.

• Avoid Contact with Sharp Objects

  Buyers should be careful not to expose the rim savers to sharp objects like knives and scissors. These can cut or damage the rim savers.

• Protect Against Extreme Weather

  The rim savers can be damaged by extreme weather conditions. Buyers should store their vehicles in a shaded place during summer. In winter, they should keep the vehicle in a warm and dry place.

How to Choose Rim Savers

When buying rim repair or protection products, buyers need to consider several factors to ensure they get the right goods for their target market. Here are some of them:

• Type of Rim Saver

  Buyers should get different types of rim savers to cater to various customer preferences. Some clients may prefer plastic rim protectors because they are affordable and easy to install. Others may go for rim repair kits since they provide a long-term solution to minor wheel damage. It is also important to stock up on alloy wheel rim protectors for luxury car owners who prefer products that maintain the aesthetic appeal of their vehicles.

• Material

  Buyers should get rim savers made of different materials to meet various customer needs. Each material has its own advantages. For instance, rubber rim savers are flexible and offer a good fit on various wheels. They also absorb shocks during curb impacts. On the other hand, polyurethane protectors are more durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.

• Size

  Rims come in different sizes. Therefore, buyers should get rim savers of various sizes to ensure a proper fit. It is also important to get products with adjustable features since not all customers will buy rim savers that are pre-measured for their specific wheel size.

• Color

  To maintain the aesthetic appeal of vehicles, buyers should get rim savers in different colors. They should focus on neutral colors such as black, gray, and white. Customers with flashy rims may also request savers in vibrant colors such as red and blue.

• Ease of Installation

  Buyers should get rim savers that are easy to install. Such products will attract customers who prefer DIY installations. It is also important to get rim savers that come with clear installation instructions. To make the installation process easier, buyers can purchase rim savers with installation tools such as adhesive glue, cleaning cloth, and installation manual.

• Effectiveness

  Before purchasing rim savers, buyers should research their effectiveness. They should read customer reviews and testimonials to get products that will satisfy their customers' needs. It is also advisable to get rim savers from reputable suppliers known for high-quality products.

• Price and Value

  Buyers should get rim savers that provide value for money. They should compare different products and settle for the ones that have all the features needed within the budget. To avoid compromising quality, buyers should also consider the material and effectiveness of the rim savers.

How to DIY and Replace Rim Savers

Most rim repair and protection kits come with DIY-friendly instructions. Here are some basic steps that may be involved:

• Preparation

  The vehicle should be parked in a well-lit space. The wheel that needs the rim saver should be thoroughly cleaned. This process involves using soap and water to remove dirt and brake dust. The saver strip's back should be rubbed to ensure proper adhesion. The rim's edge, where the saver will be applied, should be dry and clean.

• Application

  The rim saver kit's instructions should be followed. Generally, a saver strip is taken out of the kit and cut to size. It is then placed on the wheel's edge. The technician should ensure it is aligned properly and presses down firmly to ensure good adhesion. They should also avoid stretching the saver strip since it might lead to bubbling or peeling off.

• Finishing Touches

  Once all the rim saver strips have been applied, the technician should use a clean cloth to remove any excess adhesive. They should also let the adhesive dry completely before driving the vehicle. This will ensure the rim saver's proper placement and functionality.

Q&A

Q1: How long do rim savers last?

A1: The longevity of rim savers depends on several factors, including the type of rim saver, the material it is made from, and how well it is maintained. Generally, a good rim saver can last for 2 to 3 years. However, this can change if the rim savers are not used properly or are subjected to extreme conditions.

Q2: Do rim savers work?

A2: Yes, rim savers work. However, their effectiveness can differ based on the type of rim saver and the level of protection required. In general, all rim savers offer protection against scratches and minor damages that may occur when parking or driving.

Q3: Do rim savers fit all rims?

A3: Rim savers are designed to fit different types of rims. However, they may not fit all rims because of the size and design. This is because rims savers are usually manufactured in various sizes to fit different rim sizes. Additionally, buyers can get customized rim savers that will fit their rims perfectly.

Q4: Can a professional install rim savers?

A4: Yes, a professional can install rim savers. In fact, some rim savers are easy to install and can be installed by the car owner. However, for the ones that require special tools and skills to install, it is recommended to have them installed by a professional.