Most modern vehicles have alloy wheels, eliminating the need for a wheel cover. However, some vehicles use standard steel wheels, which are usually covered by a plastic cover. If your wheel covers are missing or damaged, or if you just want a different style, then you can consider replacing them. Most wheel covers mount on the rim with special retainer rings.
Check your rim size to make sure that you have the correct wheel cover. Look for a series of numbers and letters on the side wall of the tire. The numbers should read something like: P215/70/R16. The last two numbers list the rim size. In this example, the rim size is 16.
Grasp your old wheel cover by two of the access holes (one hand on each). Pull the wheel cover away firmly to remove it from the rim. If your wheel cover does not have access holes, then it likely uses lug nut covers instead of a retainer ring to attach. To remove this type of wheel cover, use a standard lug wrench to loosen the covers, and then pull it off.
Examine the new wheel cover to find the valve stem cutaway. Use this cutaway to determine how to line up the wheel cover on the rim. Push the wheel cover into the rim until the retainer ring pops in.
If your new wheel cover does not have a retainer ring on the back, it likely uses lug nut covers. Simply attach the wheel cover to the rim and tighten the lug nut covers (be careful not to over tighten).
Examine the wheel cover from the side. Look for any sections protruding or bulging from the rim. If you see any, push firmly against that section to lock in the retainer ring.
