tearing up the alloys

[jamesmetairie]

2003 base model .i bought it from the original owner with almost spotless alloys. now my teenaged driver is tearing up the alloys and even the expensive tires. got a light shot of white thread showing. also i heard with the low profile tires on the alloys the car ain,t got the best traction on wet streets.is it a sensible idea to consider buying used vibe steel wheels and hub caps and less expensive tires? what does a set of wheels usually go for?

[kunkstyle]

The original wheels aren't spectacular in wet conditions. I'd have my doubts that it's still the RSA's on there though if it's an 03. If the alloys are already trashed up, why bother buying a set of steel rims? Use these until they're toast and then buy a set of nicer ones. How and or why is your teenager 'tearing' them up? An alignment might be in order too...

[keithvibe]

a set of used steeiles(no tires) go for about 150-250... not including shipping.My 2c.I think it's your teenager that can't drive because this is the first I have heard about the traction issue that your talking about.Usually the lower the profile the better the traction on wet. It could be the tires in general that are causing the issue.Tires Only!Give or take a few dollars and your choice for traction and tread wear.16"tires usually are in the 80-120dollar range.17"tires are in the 90-13018"tires are in the 100-150 dollar range

[jamesmetairie]

new orleans area streets had huge pot holes pre-katrina. now it,s much worst. i have alot experience at dodging pot holes. but for the average new driver around here it,s bust em up time. and low profile tires don,t seem to take a hit same as a tire with more rubber between the street and the wheel.

[prathman]

You might even consider the 15" steel wheels that some people use for their snow tires. The ones that are standard on Corollas will fit and are generally pretty available from people who have 'upgraded.' A bigger air cushion will help with the potholes.