If you’re interested in customizing the wheels and tires on your SUV, there are a few things you should know first.

Most importantly, the wheels you buy need to fit your vehicle. Not all wheels are created equal. Too many Walled Lake drivers have bought a set of wheels that caught their eye, then, after going to the work of mounting them, have found that the wheels don’t fit right and the tires rub against the SUV when they turn or go over a bump.

To ensure a proper fit, you can consult with your ABC Auto Works & Tire Center tire professional. He/she can also help you find tires that are suited to your driving habits as well as your SUV. You may find their auto advice invaluable, and you’ll probably be happier with your new wheels once you purchase them.

But if you just have to have that set of wheels, and you’re willing to pay for them, you can modify your vehicle to fit the wheels. Again, you should seek a knowledgeable Novi professional’s help ahead of time. For example, if you want a bigger set of wheels on your pickup truck, you can get a suspension lift so they will fit the truck. A professional Walled Lake custom wheel shop can help you get the work done right.

The anti-lock brakes and stability control system on your SUV are engineered to work with a particular height of tire. This is another reason drivers should be careful when purchasing custom wheels in Walled Lake. The new wheel and tire combo needs to match the height of the tires that came with your vehicle.

Your car’s computer gauges your speed by the revolution of your tires and sends commands to the brakes and traction control based on that speed. If you put larger or smaller tires on your SUV, your computer is calculating the wrong speed and, consequently, sending incorrect commands to the brakes and traction control. This can have serious consequences as it may result in pricey damage to your vehicle or, worse, an accident.

If you change the size of your wheels, you need to get your engine’s computer reprogrammed at ABC Auto Works & Tire Center to accommodate the new tire size. New wheels shouldn’t just fit your vehicle, they should also fit your lifestyle. There are hundreds of styles and sizes to choose from. You should do a little research about which wheels and tires will best fit your personality, give you the performance you want, and meet your handling needs. We’re not saying you shouldn’t personalize your ride, we just want you to be happy with the result. Talk to us at ABC Auto Works & Tire Center in Walled Lake.

After all, good car care isn’t just about preventive maintenance. It’s also about making good choices.