How to tell if rims are OEM or replica?
A Replica Wheel is “deliberately” designed to look just like the “Real” OEM wheel. They are essentially counterfeit (knock-off) wheels. However, they do not have the OEM logo or the MPN (Manufacturers Part Number) stamped in the inner barrel. Many times you can identify a factory OEM rim by checking for the vehicle maker logo on the backside (Think Ford logo, Chevy logo, etc), and also there will almost always be OEM type numbers on the back of the wheel which sometimes includes the actual part number.OEM parts are often sold through dealerships or authorized retailers and are designed to be a direct replacement. That means they’re guaranteed to match in fitment, function, and performance. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are produced by companies other than the original manufacturer.The easiest way to determine if a product is aftermarket or OEM is by the brand on the packaging. If the brand is the same as your car manufacturer, there’s a good chance it’s OEM.What are OEM Wheels? OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer and is a term used to describe the wheels that the automaker makes specific to each vehicle that rolls off of the assembly line.
Are factory rims expensive?
OEM wheels are usually more expensive than cheaper aftermarket or replica wheels, but what you get is a genuine factory original wheel that is made specifically for your vehicle, and should last longer than the life of your car or truck if properly cared for. A Replica Wheel is “deliberately” designed to look just like the “Real” OEM wheel. They are essentially counterfeit (knock-off) wheels. However, they do not have the OEM logo or the MPN (Manufacturers Part Number) stamped in the inner barrel.Factory OEM wheels are often made from high-quality materials like aluminum alloy or steel, chosen for their balance of strength, weight, and cost. Aluminum alloy wheels are lightweight and offer better fuel efficiency and performance, while steel wheels are more durable and less expensive.OEM refers to any part, including wheels that can come equipped on a vehicle as it is delivered from the factory. Wheels that are not OEM are referred to as non-original, aftermarket, replica or any other term that refers to the fact that the wheels did not originally come on the vehicle.In the worst cases, replica wheels have been known to shatter, resulting in a loss of control and potentially causing accidents. While replica wheels are often designed to mimic the look of OEM wheels, they can have subtle differences in size, offset, and bolt pattern, leading to improper fitment.
Can you buy rims from Mercedes?
In the Mercedes-Benz online shop you will find a wide variety of Rims for your Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes AMG as well as rims for your smart. The high-quality rims are available in various sizes, colours and designs. In addition to the steel wheel classics, we offer alloy wheels in sizes from 15 to 23 inches. Aluminum rims are popular due to their lightweight nature and aesthetic appeal, and they last between five and ten years on average, depending on the driving conditions and maintenance. Steel rims, on the other hand, are more durable and can last up to 15 years or more.Steel wheels/rims Wheels made of steel are a cost-effective option that can be more durable than alloy rims. Steel wheels’ durability is determined by how much weight they can support. Steel wheels definition: A vehicle tire rim that is made from an alloy of carbon and iron.Mercedes-Benz wheels are primarily alloy, especially on modern models. However, steel wheels are available on some entry-level or winter setups.
How to check OEM rims?
Check the Part Number OEM wheels usually come stamped with all or the last numbers of the factory part number inside the rim. You might spot this on the backside of a spoke or near the hub mounting area. Compare that number with your car’s parts catalog or official manufacturer website. If it matches, you’re good. Aside from the center cap logo and bolt patterns, you can check the back of the wheel for OEM markings. Almost all stock rims will have a manufacturer number or logo that tells the story.Check Manufacturer Markings. Genuine alloy wheels come with clear, branded engravings, including: Brand name and logo.
Who makes AMG rims?
AMG® is an elite division of Mercedes-Benz with a legendary reputation for designing and manufacturing sports cars and SUVs, after all; it only follows that they should produce high-performance wheels and rims, too. The History of AMG Both the cosmetic trim and the high performance engines are borne from the rich racing heritage of Mercedes-Benz. The letters AMG stand for Aufrecht, Melcher and Großaspach. Aufrecht and Melcher were the original founders of AMG, and Großaspach was Aufrecht’s birth place.AMG models typically have more aggressive looks, higher performance, better handling, better stability and more carbon fibre than their regular Mercedes-Benz counterparts. AMG models are typically the most expensive and highest-performing variant of each Mercedes-Benz class.AMG is primarily associated with Mercedes-Benz, having been fully owned by the company since 2005, but it has also produced special variants of some Mitsubishi and Honda models.AMG®’s wide stance is rounded out with AMG® light alloy or forged wheels with M01 (Mercedes Original 1) tires that are tailor-made for each AMG® model. Every AMG® has M01 tires that are specifically made for each model.