Rims For A 2017 Nissan Sentra

The 2017 Nissan Sentra, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, relies heavily on its wheels – specifically the rims – for safe and comfortable driving. While often overlooked, maintaining your rims is crucial for both performance and aesthetics. This article delves into the world of 2017 Sentra rims, covering maintenance, troubleshooting common issues, and providing practical solutions for car owners and mechanics alike.

Understanding 2017 Nissan Sentra Rims

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let's clarify what we're talking about. Rims, sometimes called wheels, are the outer edges of the wheel that hold the tire. The 2017 Sentra typically came with factory rims in sizes ranging from 16 to 17 inches, depending on the trim level (S, SV, SR, SL). These rims are usually made of steel or aluminum alloy. Steel rims are generally more durable and cheaper, while alloy rims are lighter and offer better heat dissipation, contributing to improved brake performance and fuel economy.

Knowing the factory specifications for your Sentra's rims is vital. This includes the diameter (e.g., 16", 17"), width (e.g., 6.5", 7"), bolt pattern (typically 5x114.3mm), and offset. Deviating from these specifications can negatively impact handling, tire wear, and even cause damage to suspension components.

Maintenance is Key: Prolonging Rim Life

Regular maintenance is the first line of defense against rim problems. Here's a breakdown:

• Cleaning: Road salt, brake dust, and grime can corrode rims over time, especially alloy rims. Wash your rims regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish. Use a soft brush to reach tight spots.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring: Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for rim health. Underinflated tires increase the risk of rim damage from potholes and curbs. Regularly check and adjust your tire pressure according to the sticker on your driver's side doorjamb.
• Rotation and Balancing: Tire rotation ensures even wear, while balancing prevents vibrations and uneven wear, both of which contribute to rim stress. Follow the recommended rotation schedule in your owner's manual.
• Seasonal Considerations: In regions with harsh winters, consider using steel rims with winter tires. Steel rims are more resistant to salt damage and less prone to cracking in extreme cold.

Troubleshooting Common Rim Problems

Despite your best efforts, rim problems can still arise. Here's a look at common issues, their causes, and potential solutions:

Bent Rims

Symptoms: Vibrations at highway speeds, uneven tire wear, air leaks from the tire bead.

Causes: Hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards is the primary cause of bent rims. The impact can distort the rim's shape, leading to the aforementioned symptoms.

Solutions:

Minor Bends: Some shops offer rim straightening services. This involves using specialized equipment to carefully bend the rim back into its original shape. This is a viable option for small bends that don't compromise the rim's structural integrity.

Severe Bends: If the rim is severely bent or cracked, it's best to replace it. Driving on a severely damaged rim is dangerous and can lead to tire failure.

Example: Imagine your 2017 Sentra SR hitting a particularly deep pothole. You might notice a vibration that wasn't there before, especially around 60-70 mph. This is a classic sign of a bent rim.

Cracked Rims

Symptoms: Air leaks, loss of tire pressure, visible cracks on the rim surface.

Causes: Similar to bent rims, cracked rims are often caused by impacts with road hazards. However, they can also result from metal fatigue over time, especially in regions with extreme temperature fluctuations.

Solutions:

Replacement is Mandatory: Cracked rims should never be repaired. Welding or other repair methods can compromise the rim's structural integrity and lead to catastrophic failure. Replacement is the only safe option.

Example: Let's say a mechanic spots a small crack near the valve stem of your 2017 Sentra SV's alloy rim during a routine tire rotation. Even if it's not leaking air yet, it's crucial to replace the rim immediately.

Corrosion

Symptoms: Rust (on steel rims), pitting and discoloration (on alloy rims), difficulty seating the tire properly.

Causes: Exposure to road salt, moisture, and chemicals can cause corrosion on rims. This is more prevalent in regions with harsh winters or coastal areas.

Solutions:

Steel Rims: Rust can be removed with a wire brush and treated with a rust converter. After treatment, repaint the rim to protect it from further corrosion.

Alloy Rims: Corrosion can be more challenging to address on alloy rims. Light surface corrosion can be removed with specialized alloy wheel cleaners. However, severe pitting may require professional refinishing or replacement.

Example: If you live in a snowy area and drive a 2017 Sentra S with steel rims, you'll likely notice rust forming after a few winters. Regular cleaning and rust prevention measures are essential.

Wheel Stud Damage

Symptoms: Difficulty tightening lug nuts, stripped threads, lug nuts that won't stay tight.

Causes: Over-tightening lug nuts, cross-threading, or using the wrong lug nuts can damage the wheel studs (the bolts that hold the rim to the hub).

Solutions:

Damaged Studs: Damaged wheel studs need to be replaced. This typically involves removing the wheel hub and pressing in new studs.

Correct Lug Nuts: Always use the correct lug nuts for your rims. Using the wrong lug nuts can damage both the studs and the rims.

Example: A mechanic using an impact wrench and over-tightening the lug nuts on your 2017 Sentra SL after a tire change could easily damage the wheel studs. Always request that they use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.

Rim Runout

Symptoms: Vibration, especially at higher speeds; uneven tire wear; difficulty balancing the wheels.

Causes: Runout refers to a rim not being perfectly round or true. This can be caused by manufacturing defects, damage from impacts, or even long-term stress.

Solutions:

Diagnosis: Runout can be diagnosed using a dial indicator while the wheel is mounted on a balancing machine. The indicator will measure the amount of deviation from true roundness.

Limited Repair Options: In some cases, minor runout can be corrected by a skilled wheel repair specialist. However, if the runout is significant, the rim will likely need to be replaced.

Example: Even without visible damage, a 2017 Sentra's rims may develop runout over time. This could manifest as a vibration that's difficult to eliminate even with multiple tire balancings.

Real-World Examples and Lessons Learned

Consider the experience of a Sentra owner who frequently drives on poorly maintained roads. They might find themselves replacing bent rims more often than someone who primarily drives on smooth highways. This highlights the importance of adapting maintenance practices to your specific driving conditions.

Another common scenario involves aftermarket rims. While visually appealing, ensure that any aftermarket rims you install on your 2017 Sentra meet the factory specifications for bolt pattern, offset, and load rating. Using incorrect rims can compromise safety and performance.

Many complaints about rim problems arise shortly after tire shops install new tires. It's crucial to inspect the rims carefully before and after any tire service to identify any pre-existing damage and to ensure that the shop is using the correct procedures and tools.

Keeping Your 2017 Sentra in Top Condition

Beyond rim-specific maintenance, here are some general tips for keeping your 2017 Nissan Sentra in excellent condition:

• Follow the Recommended Maintenance Schedule: Adhere to the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner's manual. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.
• Address Issues Promptly: Don't ignore warning lights or unusual noises. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major problems.
• Use Quality Parts: When replacing parts, opt for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or reputable aftermarket brands. Cheaper parts may not last as long and can compromise performance.
• Find a Trusted Mechanic: Develop a relationship with a reputable mechanic who is familiar with Nissan vehicles. A knowledgeable mechanic can provide valuable advice and perform accurate repairs.
• Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your car for any signs of wear and tear, including tire condition, brake pad thickness, and fluid levels.

By understanding the importance of rim maintenance and troubleshooting common problems, you can ensure that your 2017 Nissan Sentra continues to provide safe, reliable, and enjoyable transportation for years to come. Remember that preventative care is always more cost-effective than reactive repairs.