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Advanced Wheels

Discussion in 'Prime Main Forum (2017-2022)' started by gt1jimi, Sep 12, 2018.

  1. gt1jimi

    gt1jimi Junior Member

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    We are the proud owners of a shiny new Prime Advanced in Hypersonic Red. My wife finally let go of her '04 Prius (222K miles). Everything about this new model is simply fabulous, except . . . yeah, the wheel covers are pretty cheesy.

    My first idea is to pull the pizza covers and go with the stock wheels. I'd like to dress them up with some red lug bolts, but my question is: Has anyone done this? Considering the general lack of love for the stock wheel covers on the forum, I can't believe that someone hasn't.

    So, any experiences? Anything to look for, or look out for? I await the accumulated wisdom of the group. Thanks.
     
    #1 gt1jimi, Sep 12, 2018
  2. Washingtonian

    Washingtonian Senior Member

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    I think a lot of us have removed the plastic wheel covers, altho I doubt anyone has installed red lug nuts. What you need to do is buy a set of the Toyota disks that go in the center if the aluminum wheels. If you look at the threads on wheels you will find the part number.
     
    #2 Washingtonian, Sep 12, 2018
  3. Mark57

    Mark57 2021 Tesla Model 3 LR AWD

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    Welcome and be sure to update your vehicle type in your profile.

    The center caps from Amazon . . . .

    Manufacturer: Toyota
    Part Number: 42603-52170
    Part: Center Cap
    Part Notes: With gloss black.
     
    #3 Mark57, Sep 12, 2018
  4. slothsandwich

    slothsandwich Junior Member

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    I would suggest upgrading to new wheels. Lots of stock OEM sizes that compare in similar weight. if you're willing to shed a couple of miles per charge, plus sizing to 16" or even 17" is always an option. The OEM wheels are butt, no matter how much lipstick you put on/near them.
     
    #4 slothsandwich, Sep 12, 2018
  5. Delbert

    Delbert Junior Member

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    Anyone know how I could get my hands on the European Prime wheels? Screen Shot 2018-07-27 at 4.19.34 PM.png
     
    #5 Delbert, Sep 12, 2018
    Nathanimal and Mendel Leisk like this.
  6. DavidA

    DavidA Prius owner since July 2009

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    [​IMG]

    Wheel covers were never installed. I asked for the wheel covers to remain in their factory plastic bags, where they still are, unopened. The caps I popped in as I walked around the car at pickup. The salesperson was somewhat amused. She asked where I got those, and I just smiled (hint: Amazon).
     
    #6 DavidA, Sep 13, 2018
  7. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk EGR Fanatic

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    Prius Plug-In was the only Prius with decent 15" rims:

    upload_2018-9-12_22-42-6.png
     
    #7 Mendel Leisk, Sep 13, 2018
  8. Lucifer

    Lucifer Senior Member

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    Reading the description, those fit a gen3 Prius not a gen 4 Prius, and the gen2 is a different size also.
    What do they measure in diameter?

    It’s my understanding that Yaris center caps do fit so it makes it confusing.
     
    #8 Lucifer, Sep 13, 2018
  9. Washingtonian

    Washingtonian Senior Member

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    Mine measure 2.1 inches or 5.25 centimeters using a cheap plastic rule.
     
    #9 Washingtonian, Sep 13, 2018
  10. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk EGR Fanatic

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    Centre caps are tricky: beside diameter, there's also retainer clips that click into a groove inside the bore. Between 3rd and 4th gen that groove location shifted, meaning 3rd gen caps don't fit properly in 4th gen: the diameter is the same but the clips don't lock properly.
     
    #10 Mendel Leisk, Sep 13, 2018
  11. SeattleBicycler

    SeattleBicycler Junior Member

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    The OEM wheel covers are designed for aerodynamic wind flow for lower wind resistance. Their is a science behind their looks.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
    #11 SeattleBicycler, Sep 13, 2018
  12. Mark57

    Mark57 2021 Tesla Model 3 LR AWD

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    That IS the correct number. 42603-52170. That's the info off my order and they're ON my 2017 Advanced. Several threads here with others quoting the same part number. Never rely on an Amazon description. Search Toyota parts sites like the one I posted below, then search price. See below Toyota dealer.
    2017 Center cap.jpg
     
    #12 Mark57, Sep 13, 2018
  13. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk EGR Fanatic

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    Maybe. I'm skeptical though. It'd be interesting to see a with/without test: I suspect the variation (if any) would get "lost in the noise".
     
    #13 Mendel Leisk, Sep 13, 2018
  14. gt1jimi

    gt1jimi Junior Member

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    I am of the mind that if aerodynamics were the priority, Toyota would have implemented more aggressive streamlining, such as used in the first generation Honda Insight.

    One can only guess as to the motive behind the stock wheel covers. I cannot see how the "high tech pizza with every other slice gone" design would yield lower drag than, say, smooth wheel covers. It may very well be nothing more than a styling exercise. As for the rear fender skirts not being a part of the Prius design, I can only express my profound gratitude for small favors
     
    #14 gt1jimi, Sep 15, 2018
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