Wheels

At Southern Tire, we stock a wide selection of wheels for customers in Metairie, LA, New Orleans, LA, all of Orleans Parish, and surrounding areas.

Before you start shopping for a new set of wheels, use our wheel buying guide below, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of different wheel materials in order to find the best wheel to suit your needs. If you have any questions during your research, simply contact us online.

Southern Tire’s Wheel Buying Guide

• Alloy Wheels are light wheels with improved performance characteristics. These light wheels increase cornering and steering precision, and decrease road feedback for better braking response.
• Steel Wheels are heavier wheels that provide vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Steel wheels are perfect for harsh road conditions in the snow or off-road over rugged terrain, but lack other performance capabilities because of the added weight.

Wheels & Rims: The Manufacturing Process

• Cast Wheels: Aluminum wheels are manufactured through a process of pouring molten aluminum into a mold. The shape of the wheel is formed through a process of gravity or pressure casting.
• Forged Wheels: The forging process takes a solid piece of aluminum and molds the wheel through high heat and extreme pressure. The result is a light, dense, and strong wheel.

Wheel Finishes

• Machined Wheels have a high metallic shine through use of a lathe.
• Chromed Wheels feature an aesthetically pleasing finish available on both alloy and steel wheels. Known for their metallic mirrored shine, durability, and strength, chrome plated wheels require regular attention and cleaning to maintain their visual appeal.
• Polished Wheels are buffed to create a nice shine and smooth surface. 
• Painted Wheels come in many colors, offering more customization opportunities. The coat of paint also provides protection against the elements.

The right set of wheels depends on vehicle characteristics and desired ride quality. When choosing wheels for your car, truck, or SUV, consider the following:

• Size: Various wheel sizes and weights hold different performance characteristics. If you plan on upgrading your current wheel size, be sure to consider the maximum wheel size allowance on your vehicle.
• Weight: Wheel weight impacts vehicle performance. Heavier wheels increase braking distance and reduce handling, while lighter wheels will improve maneuverability and braking performance.
• Terrain: Where do you drive most often? Wheels should be selected based on their primary function.

Every customer’s criteria for buying wheels is different, so we urge you to contact us with your questions or concerns. Our service staff is comprised of wheel and rim experts who remain on the cutting edge of wheel style, configuration, and performance.

For the best wheel buying experience around, contact us today.