Why You Should Invest in Custom Wheels

Written by Anthony Santana on January 7, 2019. Posted in Wheels

Why You Should Invest in Custom Wheels

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Tire Tread 101: Most Common Patterns

Written by Anthony Santana on January 7, 2019. Posted in TIRES

Tire Tread 101: Most Common Patterns

Directional

A directional tire tread shows visible patterns rolling in a singular direction. The pattern may also feature lateral grooves and an arrow on the sidewall that signals to that one direction. On the performance side, tires with directional tread allow for stronger resistance when hydroplaning. Due to the v-shaped pattern, water rotates evenly off tires to give improved traction on wet surfaces. Traditionally, directional tires are rotated from front to back, limiting overall tire versatility.

Symmetrical

If you are interested in a more long-lasting, silently performing tire, one with a symmetrical tread pattern may be a good fit. This pattern shows continuous grooves and blocks that run across the whole tire. Tires featuring a symmetrical tread can be rotated using various methods, allowing for a longer tire lifespan.

Asymmetrical

Unlike a symmetrical tread pattern, asymmetrical tread is a hybrid of patterns made to perform on wet and dry surfaces. Closer to the center of the pattern, you can find grooves designed for wet traction. Larger blocks made for dry roads take up the outer areas of the tire. An asymmetrical tire can be rotated in different ways.

For more information on the variety of tires available for your vehicle, contact us or schedule a visit with our team of experts at Elite Roads. We can set you up with the perfect combination of tires from a wide selection of brands.

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5 Ways to Customize Your Car

Written by Anthony Santana on December 6, 2018. Posted in TIRES, Wheels, Window Tinting

5 Ways to Customize Your Car

When you are a car enthusiast, there is no doubt you will be open to some custom upgrades to enhance your vehicle. Different modifications can provide a new, sleek look, while also boosting your car’s overall performance. If you have been toying with idea of adding some auto upgrades to your vehicle, check out these five key modifications suggested by our team at Elite Roads:

Upgrade Wheels

Take your car to the next level by upgrading to a new set of wheels. The right wheels can transform your vehicle’s character and performance. With so many different finishes and sizes of wheels on the market, you can choose a set that is perfect for your car. Types of wheel finishes include steel, alloy, and chrome. Recommended wheel brands include TSW Alloy Wheels, Black Rhino Wheels, and Niche Road Wheels. For an aggressive aesthetic and drive, you can also opt for staggered wheels, a wheel arrangement where the two rear wheels on a vehicle are larger than the two front wheels.

Upgrade Tires

One of the key factors that affects a vehicle’s performance is the car’s set of tires. Tires are the car’s only point of contact with the road, and they can strongly impact the quality of drive your car can attain. Customize your tires by deciding on the tread depth, rigidity, and width of each tire. Different brands, like Goodyear and Nexen Tire, carry an assortment of tire options. Be sure to choose a set of tires that reflects the needs of your vehicle, especially your wheels.

Apply a Paint Job

For a splash of color, consider custom auto and wheel painting. Professional auto painters can match the color of your wheels to the body of your vehicle and add any specific customizations to make the design pop. A paint job includes surface preparation, sealer, paint application, clear coat, and thorough buffing.

Add Window Tints

Aside from the protection window tints provide from damaging sun rays, this upgrade features aesthetic perks as well. Various shades of window tints are available for application based on the look and feel you are trying to achieve for your ride. Lighter tints are easier on the eyes, while darker tints allow for passenger privacy and an overall sleek design.

Install a Coilover Kit

Coilovers, or coilover shock absorbers, are a common performance upgrade for automobile suspensions. Car enthusiasts install coilover kits to reduce body roll with stiffer springs. Coilovers can also lower the position of a vehicle. Some popular coilover systems include Tein, KW, or Megan Racing – all offered at Elite Roads.

No matter your ultimate goal, investing in a few aesthetic and performance car modifications can take your vehicle to the next level. For more information on automobile services and potential upgrades, contact our South Florida team at Elite Roads.

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How to Avoid a Flat Tire During the New Year

Written by Anthony Santana on December 6, 2018. Posted in TIRES

How to Avoid a Flat Tire During the New Year

Check Tire Pressure

First and foremost, check the air pressure on all of your tires. The correct tire pressure for your car’s make should be listed in the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions. All the tire pressures should remain consistent to ensure your drive is smooth and steady. An above average pressure on a specific tire can cause a rough ride, while a below average pressure can wear out a tire. Adjust tire pressures accordingly.

Carry a Spare

Carrying a spare tire inside your car can temporarily solve most tire issues in a pinch. In order to take full advantage of your spare, routinely examine the pressure on the tire. A spare tire’s air supply should fall in line with the correct tire pressure listed in the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions. If there is a puncture in the spare, do not wait to completely replace the tire.

Drive Cautiously

The new year brings new developments and construction to our neighborhoods. Keep your tires safe from loose materials like nails, glass, and rocks by driving a few streets away from local construction sites. Also, be cognoscente of terrain when driving on uneven grounds. Maintaining a slow speed will allow your tires to drive carefully over unsteady land.

Professionally Rotate Tires

A professional tire rotation ensures each of your vehicle’s four tires will wear evenly over time. Even tire wear is key to attaining balanced vehicle handling. According to U.S. News & World Report, a car’s tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles driven. Revisit your vehicle manufacturer’s instructions to confirm the correct mile limit until your tires should be rotated.

Upgrade Tires

When all else fails, opt for a tire upgrade. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may want to invest in a set of tires that can extend the lifespan of your car. With the proper research and budget, purchasing new tires can improve your vehicle’s overall performance much more effectively than conducting routine maintenance on an old set.

For more information on the quality of your car’s tires, contact us or schedule a visit with our team of experts at Elite Roads. We can set you up with the perfect combination of tires from a wide selection of brands.

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Alloy Wheel Detailing 101

Written by Anthony Santana on November 5, 2018. Posted in Wheels

Alloy Wheel Detailing 101

Alloy wheels are known for being some of the most durable car wheels on the market. Made from alloy of aluminum or magnesium, these wheels are stronger compared to pure metal wheels. That being said, alloy wheels should be protected from the elements to ensure they last as long as possible. Routine detailing for your alloy wheels will maximize the lifespan of your set, while keeping the car’s look fresh and sleek.

Tools you will need

• Water hose

• Water hose pressure attachment (optional)

• Alloy-friendly wheel cleaner

• Car sponge

• Car detailing brush

• Bucket of water

• Microfiber cloth

How to clean your alloy wheels

Using your car on a regular basis will accumulate dust and dirt on your alloy wheels. Follow these simple steps to maintain your wheels:

Step 1: Start by hosing down the wheels to remove surface level granules. This rinse will reveal the foundation of your wheels, allowing for easier access to hidden dirt. For a more precise rinse, connect a pressure attachment to your hose. Focus the hose on all parts of each wheel.

Step 2: Once the wheels are moist, soak them with an alloy-friendly wheel cleaner using a new car sponge. Make sure to spread the soap beyond the wheel hub to the spokes. Let the soap soak into the remaining grime for a minute or two.

Step 3: Scrub off visible dirt particles using the sponge suitable for alloy wheels. To remove tougher dirt spots and grime, try using a detailing brush with smooth bristles. Buff out the remaining spots with the detailing brush. Rinse your sponge or detailing brush inside a bucket of clean water to rid your tool of lingering dirt.

Step 4: Again, rinse your alloy wheels with the hose to remove any soap that remains. Be sure to thoroughly clear any soap spots from the wheels, as these can leave a lasting residue. Hose down the wheels until the water running from the wheels into the drain is clear.

Step 5: Finally, dry the alloy wheels with a microfiber cloth from top to bottom. The microfiber material absorbs the water quickly and will not leave mini scratches on your wheel like a traditional towel rag.

At Elite Roads, we value the importance of maintaining the quality of custom wheels. For information on treating alloy wheels or upgrading to a custom set, contact our South Florida team.

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