Tesla Model 3 Owner Says, “I Don't Care if I Lose a Few Miles Per Charge, These Chrome Wheels Look So Much Better Than the Black Rims, Especially on White”

Should I leave my stock wheels on my Tesla or put on better-looking rims?

That's what Tesla owners are asking. Does it affect miles per range and improve driving dynamics and performance?

As I was browsing through the Tesla Model 3 Facebook posts, I stumbled upon a lively discussion about changing out a Tesla Model 3's stock wheels and replacing them with chrome rims. The proud owner, Terry Pickering, couldn't be happier with his new chrome wheels. However, it sparked a friendly debate among some Tesla owners, each sharing their unique experiences and insights. 

He says, 

"I don't mind sacrificing a few miles per charge. These wheel rims look so much better than the stock ones, especially on white. They were well worth the $225 investment. I'm eagerly awaiting the chrome center hubs, nutty caps, and stem covers, and my White Lotus is ready to shine," Terry proudly shares.

Many comments on the post-Tesla owner's comments agree with Terry, but there are also dissenting opinions that should be considered.

• Misty Raymond Reed - Looks so much better!!! I haven't noticed a loss of the range.
• Matt Morrison - I recently took mine off, too. It looks way better.
• John Lipio - No wheel covers is the way to go. Looks cleaner!!

There is the Black versus Chrome Debate

Some say black wheels look more sophisticated than chrome wheels

Tesla's blacked-out design includes blacked-out door handles, window trims, and side cameras.

Deke Aldrich says the black look the best - "I replaced mine with black rims and I think they look the best in my opinion. Especially on the 21 when they have the black trim." 

Do Aftermarket Wheels Affect Range and Performance?

Terry asks, "It sounds like the wheel upgrade made a big difference! Do you think these modifications have impacted the driving experience?"

Aftermarket wheels can lower the range of a Tesla vehicle, but lighter wheels can improve range and efficiency. 

Explanation

• Rolling resistance: The force that resists motion in a vehicle. Larger wheels have higher rolling resistance, which means they are less efficient and can reduce range. 
• Weight: Lighter wheels are more efficient and can improve range. 
• Other factors: Aftermarket wheels can also affect acceleration, steering, and ride quality. 

What to Consider

When choosing aftermarket wheels, look for similar specifications to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wheels. 

Some aftermarket wheels are designed to be lighter and stronger than stock Tesla wheels. 

The difference in range from aftermarket wheels may be negligible. 

Tips On Picking the Best Wheels

A report from Vannex says, 

Check out this four-step guide to ensure you get the best wheel and tire package:

1. Know what vehicle you drive: It seems simple enough to identify your car's precise make, model, and year.

2. Choose the wheel you want: Next, choose the best wheel for your vehicle. Know that you do not need to size down if the 5-10% gain in range isn't a priority for you. If you are going big, make sure you're not going so big that you risk making contact with your fenders.

3. Narrow your result: You will likely find several wheel patterns and tire types compatible with your vehicle. Narrow down your options to the most applicable patterns to your driving environment, such as all-weather or summer tires. Some tires are also designed for high performance (i.e., Michelin Pilot Super Sports), so if you want the very best driving experience possible, take that into consideration as well.

4. Select your custom package: The next step is to select an appealing aesthetic (and price) from the options available. Some sellers may offer other incentives such as high-speed balancing, security lugs, locks, etc.

This Reddit user offers this helpful information:

Harborhound says, "If you're like me and want to get aftermarket wheels right away when your 3 arrives, then maybe this information will help someone out."

Factory model 3 wheel sizes:

Size: 18X8.5"

• Offset: +40
• Pattern: 5X114.3
• Center Bore: 64.1mm
• Weight: 21.6 lbs (Without Aero Cover), 23 lbs (With Aero Cover)
• Tire size: 235/45-18

Size: 19X8.5"

• Offset: +40
• PCD: 5X114.3
• Center Bore: 64.1mm
• Weight: 29.5 lbs
• Tire size: 235/40-19

So, the car has a 5x114.3 bolt pattern, also known as a 5x4.5. This is a common size with no problems here. The offset is +40, which means the mounting surface of the wheel is 40 mm from the centerline. You will want to stay as close to this as possible, but within five; either way, that should be fine. A center bore of 64.1mm means that you will need an adapter for most wheels out there.

When selecting your aftermarket wheels, those three factors will be the most important; however, you should also really look for the weight of the wheels. I think it is worth the extra price of buying forged wheels overcast for a car as expensive as the Tesla. Forged will be stronger and lighter but will be quite a bit more money.

Final Thoughts and Questions

Many Tesla Model 3 owners want to upgrade their wheels. Knowing the right size and fit can make all the difference in having a good or poor experience. 

Tell Us About Your Wheels 

Click the red Add New Comment link below and share your wheel journey. Let us know what wheels you purchased and how they affected your driving performance or range. Also, do you prefer the black or chrome wheels? Your experience could be invaluable to fellow Tesla owners. 

Check out my Tesla story titled; I Bought A 2025 Tesla Model Y Performance, After 90 Days I Love Driving This Thing, However, My Only Complaint Is How Light the Doors Are

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Terry Pickering