What are alloy wheel rim protectors?

They are a strip of flexible, tough plastic or rubber that fits around the edge of the alloy wheel rims. Some protectors are self-adhesive, sticking over the edge of the wheel. Others slot between the wheel and the tyre.

Alloy wheel rim protectors are designed to protect the rims of your alloy wheels.

There are different methods of doing this, either by covering the edges, whilst others provide a slight protrusion that takes the hit of any contact.

The idea of the product is that if you do scrape the kerb, then it is the protector is the only thing that gets damaged.

Rim protectors are available in a range of colours those made in black can make the tyre look a little larger & silver tend to make the alloy wheel look wider.

They are also available in a selection of bright colours to provide a ring of colour around the wheel.

Why Should I use them on my car?

Alloy wheel rim protectors help maintain the appearance of your alloys, they do this by preventing damage.

Please note that is needs to be understood that alloy rim protectors are not designed to absorb serious damage, they only offer light protection.

Which type of rim protectors should I get?

There are two main kinds of alloy wheel rim protectors:

Rim protectors designed to slot between the alloy and the tyre, these are more expensive to buy, and do need fitting professionally. They cost more generally but are more durable than other types and don’t rely upon the adhesive to stay in position.

Self-adhesive rim protectors; these, as the name suggests are stuck over the edge of the alloys, these are generally cheaper and can be self-fitted. This type of protector are usually made of rubber which makes them easy to fit but this type of protector will not withstand as much damage.

Self-adhesive rim protectors also come in different types. Depending on the shape of your alloys, some fit alloys with flat edges, while others are designed for rounded and curved rims.

We would not recommend that you use rim protectors on alloys that are diamond cut or have a lacquer/paint finish.

If you’re not sure what kind of alloys you have, ask a local garage or fitting specialist for advice.