When it is time to buy new wheels, you will usually choose between OEM wheels and aftermarket wheels. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer, and OEM wheels are made by or for the vehicle manufacturer. Aftermarket wheels are made by other companies. Each option has advantages, and the right choice depends on your budget, the look you want, and how you use the car.
What OEM wheels are
OEM wheels are the wheels fitted to the car when it was built, or the same design sold by the manufacturer as a replacement. They are designed to match the vehicle exactly, so the size, bolt pattern, centre bore, and offset are known to fit. They are usually the simplest and safest choice, and they often keep their resale value better when the car is sold.
What aftermarket wheels offer
Aftermarket wheels come from other manufacturers and offer a much wider choice of styles, sizes, and finishes. They are often used to personalise a car, and some are lighter or stronger than the original wheels. Quality varies widely between brands, so check the load rating, fitment, and build quality before buying.
Cost and value
OEM wheels can be expensive to replace, particularly for premium models. Aftermarket wheels are often cheaper for a similar size, but a low price is not always good value. Compare the total cost of the wheel, the tyres, fitting, and balancing, and consider how long the wheel is likely to last.
Fitment and safety
Whichever type you choose, the wheel must match the car in diameter, width, bolt pattern, centre bore, offset, and load rating. Aftermarket wheels in particular need careful checking, because a wheel that looks similar may not fit correctly. Fit the wheels with the correct lug nuts or bolts, and tighten them to the torque specified for the vehicle.
Warranty and insurance
Fitting non-standard wheels can affect your vehicle warranty, so check the terms before you buy. It is also worth checking with your insurer, because some policies have conditions about modified vehicles. Keep the original wheels if you can, so you can return the car to standard before a sale or a warranty claim.
Which should you choose?
Choose OEM wheels if you want a guaranteed fit, simple maintenance, and good resale value. Choose aftermarket wheels if you want a different look, a specific weight or strength benefit, or a better price for the design you want, and you are prepared to check fitment carefully. In both cases, a qualified fitter can confirm the right specification.
Frequently asked questions
Are aftermarket wheels safe? They are safe when they meet the correct specification for your vehicle, are fitted correctly, and are checked regularly.
Do OEM wheels cost more? Often they do, particularly for replacement from the manufacturer. Compare prices and check whether a used or refurbished OEM wheel is an option.
Can I mix OEM and aftermarket wheels? It is not recommended unless the specification matches exactly. Mixing wheels can cause uneven handling and braking behaviour, so check with a specialist first.
Get help choosing the right wheels
For more on choosing wheels and tyres, read our wheel guides and our tire guides. If you are not sure whether OEM or aftermarket wheels suit your car, contact us with the make, model, and year and we will help you decide.