5 of the Best Custom Rim Job Options

Written by Hardcore Advertising on July 10, 2018. Posted in Rims

5 of the Best Custom Rim Job Options

Customizing your rims is one of the boldest ways to show your personality and pride in your ride. There are also many affordable options to make a statement without having to completely overhaul your vehicle. Elite Roads can provide you with information you need to add the right value to your rims. Here are some ideas on how to add more personality to your ride:

Custom Paint Jobs

Custom paint can provide a fresh dash of color to your ride. With today’s selections, your options are almost limitless. You may choose a bright color that stands out against the main color of your vehicle, such as hot pink, neon green or bright yellow. Another option is to add a bold color with a stripe or accent that’s a contrasting color. You can also try an ombré or rainbow effect, allowing the colors to gradually blend into each other.

Light It Up

Rims that have lights installed on them can provide an attractive option for day and night. They also increase your visibility, making them a greater safety feature than many other custom rim options. Add some lights in one color for a cohesive appearance, such as red or blue lights, or add lights that are different colors in each rim or set of rims. You could also install multiple lights for each rim, such as Christmas-colored lights. Lights that illuminate an image, like a flag or other featured picture, have also become popular recently.

Embellishments

Consider adding embellishments to your rims, such as nail heads, gem stones, large brads or other objects for an artistic flare. This option allows you to show off your style, possibly making your vehicle look like it has diamonds or other jewels on it.

Engraving

Engraved custom rims provide a personalized touch to your vehicle. You can select the image that you want etched into your rims like picking a tattoo. Check with our technicians to learn about what options may be available for the rims you select.

Metallic Finish

If you want to set off your vehicle without incorporating additional pieces or embellishments, you may want to consider a metallic finish. You can select the type of finish you want, such as silver, nickel, brushed nickel, gold, bronze or platinum. You can also add other selections on top of the finish, such as a contrasting color, lights or embellishments.

For more information on rim customizations, call our team of experts at Elite Roads via 954-513-4103.

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Cast vs. Forged Wheels For Your Car

Written by Hardcore Advertising on July 2, 2018. Posted in Wheels

Cast vs. Forged Wheels For Your Car

Wheels may be manufactured in a variety of ways. Two of the most popular manufacturing processes are “cast” and “forged” wheels. Each type is manufactured in a different manner and associated with different advantages and disadvantages.

Process of Manufacturing Cast Wheels

The casting process involves pouring or using a vacuum to insert molten aluminum into a mold that is formed into the shape of the wheel in different dimensions. Positive pressure is used to move the aluminum alloys into the mold more quickly and to achieve a product that has a greater density than a gravity cast wheel. It’s allowed to cool. Then, minor modifications are made into the wheel, such as drilling and trimming. This manufacturing process is preferred over others because it’s fast and inexpensive. It’s also less complicated than other processes.

Advantages of Cast Wheels

Cast wheels offer a good value for a tire while also maintaining strength and a lighter weight. They are easier to make, so the cost savings are often passed on to the buyer.

Disadvantages of Cast Wheels

Allowing the molten aluminum to solidify can result in inconsistencies that can cause cracking and oxidation in the wheel. The wheel’s structural integrity can be reduced through this manufacturing process. The wheels may be made heavier to compensate for this potential problem.

Process of Manufacturing Forged Wheels

Forged wheels begin as a solid piece of metal that is then exposed to heat and intense pressure that compresses the material. This material is forged into different dimensions based on the wheel design.

In contrast to casting, a forged wheel begins as a solid piece of metal referred to as a “billet.” This billet is then subjected to heat and intense pressure, which compresses the material to form a raw forging. These raw forgings are “forged” into different profiles to allow for the creation of different wheel designs.

Advantages of Forged Wheels

Forged wheels are less porous than cast wheels because of the forging process. The forging process makes these wheels stronger, more durable and more resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Additionally, the wheel’s structural integrity is not compromised. Forged wheels tend to have greater overall vehicle performance and enhanced fuel efficiency.

Disadvantages of Forged Wheels

Forging is a more time-consuming and precise process. This makes the process more expensive, making the wheels more expensive to consumers. Cast wheels can be quality wheels, so some consumers may not be willing to pay the higher price point demanded of forged wheels. However, forged ones offer an incomparable value to consumers.

When deciding whether to purchase cast wheels or forged wheels, it is important to get an expert’s opinion. The preferred type of wheel can depend on a number of factors, including the size and type of vehicle you use, how you use your vehicle and your budget. For more information on wheel upgrade options and customizations, call our team of experts at Elite Roads via 954-513-4103.

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4 Benefits of Suspension Tuning

Written by Hardcore Advertising on June 11, 2018. Posted in Suspension Tuning

4 Benefits of Suspension Tuning

Cost Savings

Being proactive by using suspension tuning services can help you reduce the likelihood of experiencing expensive auto repairs that arise due to a failing suspension system. Without proper suspension services, vehicle parts wear unevenly and prematurely. Today’s tires are often much more expensive, but they are designed to assist with overall vehicle performance and gas mileage. If they wear out prematurely, your tire life decreases and your fuel efficiency lowers. Vehicles that are not properly aligned can suffer a decrease in fuel efficiency by up to 7%. This can equate to more than a $150 annual cost for the average driver. Given increasing gas prices today, having an experienced shop look at your suspension system can ultimately be a good investment.

Improved Vehicle Safety

Having your suspension system thoroughly reviewed and serviced can ensure that your vehicle is safer on the road. An uninspected suspension system can result in losing control of your vehicle and being injured in an accident. In other situations, the vehicle may break down and leave you stranded at an inopportune time or place.

Smoother Ride

When a vehicle’s suspension system is off, it is often more difficult to handle and steer. Poor alignment issues even to a small degree can result in your car pulling sideways about 28 feet per mile. Every inch that a vehicle is out of alignment is equal to driving the tire sideways at 100 feet per mile. You may already notice your vehicle pulling to one side or another even when you are driving straight ahead. Suspension service can uncover the reasons why your vehicle is drifting to one side and can remedy this situation, so that you’re not constantly jerking your vehicle the other direction.

Ability to Safely Stop

The amount of tread on your tires is tied directly to your vehicle’s stopping distance. To extend the life of your tire treads, your vehicle must be properly aligned. When road surfaces are slick, it takes even longer for a vehicle to stop. A vehicle that has tread depths of 4/32” take four vehicle lengths longer to stop than vehicles with tread depths of 6/32” while a vehicle with 2/32” take nine car lengths longer to stop.

The maintenance of your vehicle is important to protect its longevity and safety on the roadway. Suspension tuning service can have a significant impact on your fuel economy and make it easier to drive many miles. Contact Elite Roads at (954) 513-4103 to schedule your suspension service today.

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What Do Your Rims Say About You?

Written by Hardcore Advertising on June 4, 2018. Posted in Rims

What Do Your Rims Say About You?

Standard Rims

Let’s begin with the basics: standard rims. If you’re a standard rim kind of person, you may not be the first driver to put the pedal to the metal. That being said, the standard rim is usually the safest choice for cautious drivers and even beginners.

Big Rims

Let’s move one step up to the larger rims. These are slightly elevated and handle the vehicle better than the standard rim. Big rims show that you’re a little more eager than the traditional driver, but not quite the speed demon you secretly wish you were.

Custom Colors

Now that we’ve gotten the ordinary rims out of the way, let’s talk about colors. You have your black, silver, chrome and multi-colored rims. Black rims on any vehicle screams dark, edgy, sporty and confident. If you’re more into the silver and chrome, you definitely express a more luxe lifestyle. Lastly, but absolutely not least, there are multi-colored rims. The full color scale includes reds, blues, purples, yellows and greens. These whimsical colored rims express your boldness and that you’re not afraid to show your creative side. Don’t worry – we know you’re rocking it.

Express Yourself with Custom Rims

All in all, if you’ve taken the time to customize your car no matter what type of rims you have, it shows that you take pride in your vehicle. For more information on rim upgrade options and wheel customizations, call our team of experts at Elite Roads via (954) 513-4103.

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Tips for Protecting Your Tires During the Summer

Written by Herd on May 11, 2018. Posted in TIRES

Tips for Protecting Your Tires During the Summer

When people think of vehicle maintenance for the summer, they may think about their cooling system and fluids. However, tires can be adversely affected by the summer and require attention. High summer temperatures can damage your tires and put your safety at risk. Humidity and heat can cause your tires to dry out and may lead to deterioration. Tire pressure may be increased and their sensitivity to damage may also be increased. However, there are proactive steps that you can take to protect your investment this summer, including the following:

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

As the temperatures increase, the pressure in your tires also increases. When your tires are over-inflated, tires may be more likely to blow out or have the tread separate from the tire. However, there are also dangers to under-inflation. Under-inflated tires produce more heat and have lower fuel efficiency. They can also make it more difficult to brake or steer your vehicle. The appropriate tire pressure is usually listed on the door handle, usually on the driver’s side door jamb. It could also be in the glove compartment or indicated in the owner’s manual. Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold for a more accurate reading. A tire in good shape will only lose 1-2 psi per month. If you are losing more than this, you may have a leak or other tire damage.

Wash Your Tires

During the summer months, you should wash your tires regularly. Regular washes and waxes can help prevent your tires from drying out or wearing too quickly. After washing your tires, you may wish to apply a protectant designed to protect against the summer heat.

Know Your Tires

The stamps on your tire can help provide you with important information about your tires. The treadwear, traction and temperature ratings are usually stamped below the composition, size, capabilities and speed rating. They could be on the side of the tire size. The temperature grade will be listed as A, B or C. A is the coolest running and the most resistant to heat.

Check Tread Depth

Check your tire’s tread depth. Most new tires have 11/32 inches of tread. Tires that have less than 2/32 inches need to be replaced. You can determine the depth of your tires’ tread by placing a penny upside-down in a groove of the tread. If Lincoln’s head is visible, you need to replace the tire. You can also rotate your tires every 6,000 miles to increase your tread life and improve the comfort of the drive.

Check Your Spare

It is easy to forget about your spare tire when it is out of sight. However, if you have a blowout or need to unexpectedly change your tire, it is important to have a safe replacement tire that you can use. Check its tread depth and pressure periodically as well.

Check for Damage

Analyze your tires periodically for any damage, punctures or leaks. Look for inconsistencies in your tires, like cracks in the tread or sidewall, bulges or inconsistent wear. If you notice any problems, contact Elite Roads for assistance.

Check Your TPMS Sensor

If your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light comes on, your tire may have a problem, such as low pressure. Some systems alert motorists when the tire temperature gets too high.

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