2016 Nissan Sentra With Rims

The 2016 Nissan Sentra offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability, making it a popular choice in the compact sedan segment. While its stock appearance is perfectly acceptable, many owners choose to personalize their Sentras, and one of the most common and impactful modifications is upgrading the rims. This article explores the various aspects of fitting aftermarket rims to a 2016 Nissan Sentra, providing helpful advice to ensure a successful and aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Why Upgrade the Rims on a 2016 Nissan Sentra?

There are several reasons why you might consider upgrading the rims on your 2016 Sentra. These range from purely aesthetic preferences to performance-related benefits:

Aesthetics: This is often the primary motivation. Aftermarket rims offer a wide variety of styles, finishes, and sizes, allowing you to dramatically alter the look of your car. You can choose rims that complement the body color, enhance its sporty appearance, or simply reflect your personal taste.
Performance: Lighter rims can reduce unsprung weight, potentially improving handling and acceleration. While the difference might not be drastic, it can be noticeable, especially when combined with other performance-enhancing modifications.
Improved Handling: Wider rims can accommodate wider tires, which can provide more grip and improve cornering performance. However, it's crucial to ensure the chosen tire and rim combination fits properly without causing rubbing or other issues.
Personalization: Rims are a relatively easy and cost-effective way to make your Sentra stand out from the crowd and reflect your individual style.
Replacement: If your original rims are damaged or worn, replacing them with aftermarket options can be a viable and potentially more stylish alternative.

Considerations Before Buying Rims for Your 2016 Nissan Sentra

Before you rush out and buy a set of new rims, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure they fit properly, perform as expected, and don't compromise your vehicle's safety or handling. Paying attention to these details can save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run.

Bolt Pattern and Offset

The bolt pattern is the number and spacing of the lug nuts that secure the wheel to the hub. The 2016 Nissan Sentra typically has a 5x114.3mm (or 5x4.5 inch) bolt pattern. It's absolutely critical to ensure that any rims you purchase have this exact bolt pattern to ensure they can be properly and safely mounted.

Offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, while a negative offset means it's closer to the inside. The correct offset is crucial for proper wheel fitment. Using the wrong offset can cause the wheels to rub against the suspension components or the fenders. Consult with a tire and wheel professional to determine the appropriate offset range for your Sentra.

Wheel Size (Diameter and Width)

The diameter of the wheel is measured in inches, and it's essential to choose a size that doesn't interfere with the brakes or suspension. The 2016 Sentra typically comes with 16 or 17-inch wheels, and you can generally go up or down a size without major issues. However, significant changes in diameter will affect your speedometer reading and may require recalibration.

Width refers to the distance between the inner and outer edges of the rim. Wider rims can accommodate wider tires, which can improve handling. However, wider rims also increase the risk of rubbing. It's crucial to consider the width of the rim in relation to the tire size and the car's fender clearance.

Tire Size

When you change the rims, you will likely need to purchase new tires as well. The tire size must be compatible with the rim size. Using an incorrect tire size can lead to handling problems, inaccurate speedometer readings, and even tire failure. Consult a tire size calculator or a tire professional to determine the correct tire size for your chosen rims.

Load Rating

The load rating of the rims indicates the maximum weight that each wheel can safely support. It's crucial to choose rims with a load rating that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's specifications for your 2016 Sentra. Overlooking the load rating can lead to wheel failure and potentially dangerous driving conditions.

Material and Construction

Rims are typically made from steel or aluminum alloy. Steel rims are generally more affordable and durable, but they are also heavier. Alloy rims are lighter, which can improve handling and fuel efficiency, but they are often more expensive and can be more susceptible to damage.

Consider the construction method as well. Cast rims are the most common and affordable, while forged rims are stronger and lighter, but also more expensive.

Budget

Rims can range in price from a few hundred dollars per set to several thousand dollars. Set a realistic budget before you start shopping to avoid overspending. Remember to factor in the cost of tires, installation, and any necessary accessories, such as lug nuts and hub-centric rings.

Where to Buy Rims for Your 2016 Nissan Sentra

You can purchase rims from a variety of sources, including:

Local Tire and Wheel Shops: These shops offer expert advice and installation services. They can help you choose the right rims for your Sentra and ensure they are properly installed.
Online Retailers: Online retailers offer a wider selection of rims at competitive prices. However, it's important to research the retailer's reputation and ensure they offer a good return policy in case the rims don't fit or meet your expectations.
Used Parts Dealers: You can often find used rims at a lower price than new rims. However, it's important to carefully inspect used rims for damage before purchasing them.

Installation

While it's possible to install rims yourself, it's generally recommended to have them installed by a professional. A professional installer will have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure the rims are properly mounted and balanced. They can also advise you on any necessary adjustments, such as aligning the wheels.

Important Note: After installing new rims, it's essential to have the wheels re-torqued after driving a short distance (typically 50-100 miles). This helps to ensure that the lug nuts are properly tightened and prevents the wheels from coming loose.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when upgrading the rims on your 2016 Nissan Sentra:

Ignoring the Bolt Pattern: As mentioned earlier, the bolt pattern is critical for proper fitment. Double-check the bolt pattern before purchasing any rims.
Choosing the Wrong Offset: Incorrect offset can cause rubbing and handling problems. Consult with a tire and wheel professional to determine the appropriate offset range for your Sentra.
Overlooking the Load Rating: Make sure the rims have a load rating that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's specifications.
Not Considering Tire Size: The tire size must be compatible with the rim size. Use a tire size calculator or consult a tire professional to determine the correct tire size.
Forgetting to Re-Torque the Lug Nuts: Re-torque the lug nuts after driving a short distance to ensure they are properly tightened.
Neglecting Wheel Alignment: Installing new rims can sometimes affect wheel alignment. Have your wheels aligned after installing new rims to ensure optimal handling and tire wear.

Conclusion

Upgrading the rims on your 2016 Nissan Sentra can be a great way to enhance its appearance and potentially improve its performance. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a successful and satisfying rim upgrade that will make your Sentra stand out from the crowd. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with professionals when needed to ensure a proper and trouble-free installation. Investing in the right rims can significantly elevate the look and feel of your vehicle, making every drive more enjoyable. Always prioritize safety and proper fitment above all else.