A wheel is a complete metal assembly that mounts to a vehicle and holds a tire. A rim is the outer edge of the wheel where the tire seats. A hubcap is a cover that fits over the center area of some wheels, usually to hide or protect the hub and lug hardware. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.
Check out our tire and wheel glossary!
WHAT IS A WHEEL?
A wheel is the complete circular metal assembly that attaches to a vehicle and supports the tire. It includes the structural parts needed to mount to the wheel hub, the part that connects the wheel and tire to the axle, and carry the vehicle's load.
Wheel Components:
Rim: the outer edge of the wheel where the tire sits
Rim flange: where the tire bead connects to the wheel's surface to create an airtight seal
Spokes or disc: the structural body of the wheel
Hub mounting area: the section that attaches to the vehicle
Barrel: the inner cylindrical section of the wheel
If your wheel is damaged badly enough to require replacement, you should also have your vehicle's alignment and suspension checked.
Some Discount Tire stores now offer alignment services. Check to see if your store is participating.
DISCOUNT TIRE ALIGNMENT SERVICEWatch to learn more
Learn the Difference Between a Wheel, Rim, and Hubcap!
WHAT IS A RIM?
A rim is the outer edge of the wheel that holds the tire in place. It helps support and hold the tire in place. Many people use "rims" and "wheels" interchangeably and usually without issue, unless you need to specify damage concerns or are shopping for specific design elements, such as a beadlock lip.
A rim:
- Is part of a wheel
- Helps seat and retain the tire
- Cannot function as a complete wheel on its own
WHAT IS A HUBCAP?
A hubcap is a decorative or protective cover that fits over the central hub of the wheel. It leaves most of the wheel uncovered. They usually function to protect the lug nuts or for aesthetic purposes.
A hubcap:
- Covers the center area of the wheel
- May protect lug nuts and hub hardware
- Does not replace the wheel or rim
- Is different from a wheel cover, which covers the full face of the wheel
What is a Center Cap?
The center cap is a protective circular cover that attaches over the central hub of a wheel. Its main purpose is to protect the wheel bearings and lug nuts from dirt, moisture and debris. It also offers a finished look to the wheel face. It is typically where you'll find manufacturer logos.
WHEEL VS RIM VS HUBCAP
| Part | What it is | What it does | Can it work alone? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheel | Complete circular metal assembly | Mounts to vehicle and supports the tire | Yes |
| Rim | Outer edge of the wheel | Holds the tire bead in place | No |
| Hubcap | Covers the central wheel hub, not the whole wheel | Protects or hides the central hub | No |
Essentially, a wheel is the overall structure, the rim is part of the wheel, and the hubcap is a cover attached to only part of a wheel.
WHY PEOPLE USE THE TERMS INTERCHANGEABLY
People often say "rims" when they mean "wheels" because the term has become commonly associated in everyday language, car culture and aftermarket marketing. We even use them interchangeably, even though that is not exactly precise.
Hubcap can also be confused with:
- Center cap: covers only the center portion
- Wheel cover: covers the whole wheel face
WHEN THE DIFFERENCE MATTERS
Using the correct terms in real life is important to avoid costly purchase or maintenance mistakes in scenarios like:
Damage assessment: Damage to a hubcap is vastly different from wheel damage. Structural wheel damage may require a full replacement.
DISCOUNT TIRE WHEEL REPAIRService and maintenance: Clear terminology helps you ensure you get the correct repair, replacement or accessory. Need help? Give us a call or stop in and we'll get you taken care of.
FIND MY DISCOUNT TIRE STOREFAQ
Below are some of the most common questions we get about wheels, hubcaps and rims.
No. A wheel is the complete metal assembly and the rim is only the outer edge of the wheel.
A hubcap is a cover that fits over the center area of a wheel, usually to protect or hide the hub and lug hardware.
No. Hubcaps only cover the central hub of a wheel while a wheel cover spans the whole diameter (or face) of the wheel.
The tire bead seats on the rim, which is part of the wheel. The complete wheel assembly then mounts to the vehicle.
Yes, if the hubcap is damaged it can generally be replaced as it is a cover and not a structural component. Hubcap damage is usually less serious and replacement is straightforward.
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