Hyundai Sonata Hubcaps
Hyundai Sonata hubcaps serve two purposes. The first purpose is to protect the car’s lug nuts and its suspension center, which is also called the hub. The second purpose of these parts is to enhance the appearance of the vehicle.
What kinds of Hyundai Sonata hubcaps are available?Hyundai Sonata hubcaps fall into three main categories:
- Factory originals - These are the hubcaps that come standard with your Sonata when you buy it from the dealership. They generally display the Hyundai name or logo, and replacements are usually readily available. Factory originals are also called OEM or genuine OEM, which stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer.
- Aftermarket covers - These are replacements not made by Hyundai. They are intended to be attached to any rim of the proper size, but you’ll need to make sure they are compatible with your Sonata sedan.
- Replicas - These are aftermarket covers intended to look as much as possible like Hyundai covers without violating the auto manufacturers trademark name or logos.
OEM hubcaps for your Sonata are made with high-tech, impact-resistant plastic. Hubcaps made from this professional-grade plastic often offer vehicle owners years of problem-free service.
Is a wheel cover the same thing as a hubcap?No. The terms are often used together, but they technically mean two different things. The hubcap covers and protects the center of the wheel bearings along with the lug nuts. A wheel cover is larger and covers the entire wheel.
How do you know which hubcap will fit your Sonata?The hubcap size matches the tire size. For example, a 15-inch tire takes a 15-inch hubcap. If you are in doubt, read the code on the sidewall of the tire, which features the tire size at the end of the sequence. A tire with the code P205/70R15, for example, takes a 15-inch hubcap. A tire with the code LT215/70R16 takes a 16-inch hubcap, and so on.
How do you prevent the hubcaps from coming off?The easy way to ensure the hubcaps stay on your sedans wheels is to make sure they are securely and evenly attached. If the cover seems unevenly attached, tap it gently with the palm of your hand or a soft rubber mallet until it is firmly and evenly seated. Check your covers after any service on your car that involves the tires to make sure all the covers are still firmly seated.