When I first swapped out the factory wheels on my car for a set of 22-inch alloys, I didn’t think much beyond how sharp they looked. It wasn’t until I got my next insurance renewal notice that I realized: aftermarket wheels can actually impact your rate—and not always in ways you’d expect.
If you’re planning to go above 20 inches, or already have, here’s what I’ve learned about how insurance companies treat aftermarket rims.
Why Bigger Wheels Matter to Insurers
Insurance companies don’t care whether your wheels are forged aluminum or chrome-plated for show. What they do care about is value, exposure, and risk.
When you upgrade to aftermarket wheels, especially those 20 inches or larger, you’re increasing:
- The replacement cost of your vehicle’s equipment
- The likelihood of theft (big rims are a target)
- The risk of damage from curbs, potholes, or even minor fender-benders
Wheels aren’t just cosmetic—they’re part of your vehicle’s value calculation. And if you haven’t told your insurer about them, you might be setting yourself up for an issue if something goes wrong.
Will Your Premium Go Up?
It depends. In my case, adding a $1,600 set of wheels (plus tires) bumped my premium about $8 a month after I disclosed the upgrade.
Here’s what usually affects whether your rate increases:
| Factor | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|
| Total cost of the wheel upgrade | More expensive = higher rate |
| Whether you disclosed the mod | Non-disclosure = denied claims |
| Where you park | High-theft zip code = big risk |
| Wheel theft history in your area | Some cities flag aftermarket rims |
| Insurer policy on cosmetic mods | Some cover them, others exclude |
The part a lot of people miss: if you don’t tell your insurer, they’re not responsible for replacing your wheels. And in a claim, they may even reduce your payout if they believe the wheels contributed to the loss.
Theft Is the Hidden Threat
I live in Los Angeles, and here, large aftermarket wheels are practically a “steal me” sign. Some neighborhoods see tire-and-wheel theft rings operating overnight. If your wheels are valuable and you don’t have secure parking, your comprehensive insurance premium will likely reflect that risk.
I also learned that insurance companies look at part count and accessibility. Multi-piece wheels, or anything that requires a special key or lock, might be treated differently depending on your provider.
What I Do Now
After that first premium spike, I started handling my wheel upgrades smarter:
- I always call my insurer before installing anything—wheels included.
- I keep receipts and photos of the wheels, tires, and install.
- I use wheel locks, even if they’re not theft-proof, just to show effort.
- I park in well-lit or secure garages as much as possible.
If you’re spending thousands on wheels, it’s worth the 15-minute call to verify your coverage.
Are They Worth It?
If your wheels bring you joy and you’re prepared to secure and insure them properly, yes. But know that going above 20 inches often means:
- Higher tire costs
- Increased road noise
- Rougher ride
- Potential premium bump
To insurers, you’re adding valuable, easy-to-steal parts to your vehicle. Be ready to pay a little more to protect them.
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In the end, big wheels aren’t just a flex—they’re an insurance consideration. If you’re rolling on 22s, make sure your policy’s keeping up.