Just How Much Do Tesla Wheel Covers Affect Range? Plus Benefits, Looks & More
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In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about Tesla wheel covers, which includes:
- Tesla wheel covers improve efficiency: testing shows 3.4% better fuel economy at highway speeds and up to 10 extra miles of range.
- Owners split on aesthetics vs. function: some keep covers for efficiency, others remove them to show off the alloy wheels underneath.
- Easy tool-free installation: covers snap on and off without tools, letting owners switch between looks as needed.
Mention the term “wheel covers,” and many car owners have visions of cheesy accessories designed to dress up a 20-year-old Civic or Corolla. Yet, wheel covers are much more than decoration when attached to a Tesla. These plastic or composite hubcap-like components cover the stock wheels to improve airflow and efficiency. In contrast, some Tesla owners opt for running with just the factory rims, or aftermarket covers or wheels. It’s part of the never-ending form versus function debate that’s been ongoing since car customization came onto the scene almost a century ago.
If you already own a Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X, or Cybertruck, or are thinking about putting one in your driveway, you’ll want to know everything about Tesla wheel covers. These often-overlooked accessories demand more attention.
The Functional Role of Tesla’s Wheel Covers
Dubbed “aero covers” in Tesla marketing speak, the factory wheel covers are included with many models to reduce the drag when a vehicle is in motion. This may seem inconsequential, but Car and Driver showed otherwise.
In a 2019 evaluation, the publication found that wheel covers enhanced the efficiency of a Model 3 at highway speeds by an average of 3.4 percent. At 90 mph, the aero covers made the greatest difference, with a 4.5 percent improvement. In real-world terms, Tesla owners may experience up to 10 extra miles of additional range.
Beyond efficiency gains, the covers offer secondary benefits by protecting the delicate aluminum alloy wheels underneath from curb rash and road debris.
OEM Wheel Cover Options for Tesla Models
In the Tesla Online Shop, a few wheel cover options are offered in different sizes and designs depending on which Tesla Model you own or plan to buy.
Model 3 Wheel Covers
The Tesla Model 3 comes with 18-inch Aero wheels as standard. A set of wheel covers compatible with the Refresh and Pre-Refresh Model 3 equipped with an 18″ Aero wheel can be added.
Model Y Wheel Covers
The factory wheel cover option for the Tesla Model Y is 19 inches. These are designed for the Gemini wheels that come on the RWD cars, the entry point to the line-up.
Model S Wheel Covers
At the time of writing, the company only offers one wheel cover for Tesla Model S produced after 2020. These are made for vehicles equipped with the standard 19-inch Tempest wheels.
Model X Wheel Covers
While buyers used to receive wheel covers with the Model X, it seems that’s no longer the case. Maybe it has something to do with the multiple complaints that the wheel cover gets the rim scratched when you install it.
Why Some Tesla Owners Remove or Replace Wheel Covers
As mentioned, function doesn’t always outweigh form. Some Tesla owners remove the factory aero covers for purely aesthetic reasons. They may prefer the premium appearance of the original alloy rims or perceive the Tesla-brand covers as cheap-looking or ordinary.
Practicality could also be involved. One damaged cover could lead to removing all of them until a replacement is available. In addition, aftermarket wheels aren’t usually compatible with the original covers.
DMotus Tip: If you can’t decide whether to run with or without Tesla wheel covers, try this approach: remove the covers for local daily driving but reinstall them for highway travel to take advantage of efficiency improvements. The removal and installation process is simple and detailed below.
Considerations When Buying Wheel Covers
As you can see, the options offered by Tesla for your vehicle are very limited, and these often cause problems. Of course, companies that offer aftermarket wheel accessories took advantage of that.
You can find everything from replacements for the Tesla Model 3 stock Aero covers to Turbine, Blade, Sport, and Orbital wheel covers at a reasonable price.
Here is what to consider in order to make the right choice:
Material and Quality
Pretty much all the wheel covers you’ll see on the market today are plastic. Every single aftermarket Tesla wheel cover offered online says: made of premium ABS plastic. In other words, the material isn’t something you can pick.
As for the quality, look for brands with good ratings that sell wheel covers for your Tesla Model. If they have legit customer reviews that are mainly positive, the odds are in your favor. A little online research will increase your chances of satisfaction even more.
The Dmotus team has already tested and compared options for durability, design, and price in our Tesla Model 3 and Model Y wheel cover roundup
How to Remove and Install Tesla Wheel Covers
While Tesla wheel covers are precision-fit on the original wheels, they don’t require removal or installation tools. However, you’ll want to follow simple steps to avoid damage.
Removal:
Step 1: Preparation
- Ensure you Tesla is in park and on a level surface.
- Clean your hands to avoid transferring dirt to the covers or wheels.
- Optional: wear work gloves to protect your hands
Step 2: Initial Loosening
- In one spot, grasp the aero cover firmly with both hands; ensure you’re grabbing the cover and not the aluminum rim underneath.
- Move your hands to an adjacent location and gently tug the cover towards yourself. You’ll hear it make some noise as it begins to loosen, which means it’s coming off the latch. Repeat this step until you have partially loosened the entire cover.
Step 3: Complete Removal
- Pull the aero cover toward you to release the retaining clips, applying even pressure.
- Once it’s loose, pull the aero cover again with both hands to fully detach it from the retaining clips
- Be patient it may take a few tries, but maintain a firm grip while being gentle
DMotus Tip: If your coverless Tesla wheel looks underdressed, we have compiled the best after market options for Tesla lug nuts. Tesla also sells optional center caps and lug nut covers to upgrade the rims.
Remember that each wheel cover is designed to fit a specific Tesla Model. Make sure that the ones you’re looking at are compatible with your car. For example, the Tesla Model Y 19-inch wheel cover won’t fit on the Tesla Model S 19-inch wheel.
Installation:
Step 1: Preparation
- Clean the wheel surface and ensure the cover’s clips are in good condition. Align the cover with the valve stem, ensuring the valve hole matches the tire’s stem.
Step 2: Initial Installation
- Firmly press the center of the cover first, then work your way out to the outer perimeter of each spoke. You may need to hold the opposite side until all spokes are secured.
Step 3: Confirmation
- Press the center cap firmly with your hands to ensure it’s secured. As a final check, quickly pull each spoke to confirm they’re locked in place
Stock vs. Aftermarket Tesla Wheel Covers
Tesla stock wheel covers are designed to fit perfectly onto the OEM rims. Replacements are relatively inexpensive ($35 and $75) and available through the company’s website. However, owners looking for a more personal touch can select from numerous aftermarket options.
There’s no shortage of styles offering different colors, patterns, and materials. Some varieties focus on aerodynamics, while others focus more on appearance. You’ll have no trouble finding quality aftermarket Tesla wheel covers for under $100 per set. However, avoid going too cheap, as fit and quality can be issues. Search Tesla forums for first-hand recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Tesla Wheel Covers
What Are the Benefits of Tesla Wheel Covers?
Tesla wheel covers offer several benefits. The accessory protects the wheels from damage, enhances the appearance by adding a touch of style, and improves aerodynamics, which can lead to a more efficient EV. Covers are one of the best Tesla customizations in terms of price and potential impact.
What Are the Drawbacks of Tesla Wheel Covers?
The only potential drawback of having covers installed on your Tesla wheels is their impact on braking performance. While Tesla’s regenerative braking minimizes the chances, the reduced airflow can still make your brakes less effective. Honestly, we don’t think you’ll ever face this issue unless you take your Tesla to the race track.
How Effective Are Covers in Protecting the Tesla Rims?
Covers will protect your Tesla rims from both physical damage and environmental factors such as UV rays, salt, and other corrosive substances. However, it’s worth noting that no wheel cover is foolproof, so don’t expect 100% protection if you hit a curb at 50mph.
Why Do Tesla Wheels Have Covers?
Covers on Tesla wheels are not only for protection. These are important aspects of Tesla’s design as they positively impact aerodynamics. This is crucial for EVs as they rely solely on battery power, so any improvements in efficiency will result in better overall performance.
Can I drive without Tesla wheel covers?
Yes, the factory wheel covers are designed to improve efficiency and protect the underlying wheels. Driving without the covers is acceptable; you may experience slightly reduced range at higher speeds.
Do wheel covers really affect the range of a Tesla?
While you may not notice much difference in city driving, a Car and Driver analysis confirms that the Tesla aero covers help at higher speeds.
Will Removing Tesla Wheel Covers damage the rims?
No, the factory wheel covers are designed for easy, tool-free removal. With the covers in place, the wheels are more protected from curb rash and road debris.
Can I use aftermarket wheel covers?
Yes, aftermarket covers designed for your Tesla model and wheel size should work without issue. However, verify compatibility and check quality before purchasing.
