Hub centric and lug centric refer to the way the wheel is centered on the hub of the vehicle.
Hub-centric means the "center bore" of the wheel matches the diameter of the vehicle's hub. The wheel fits snugly onto the hub. This perfect match prevents the wheel from shifting during the torquing process keeping the wheel centered on the hub. Centering the wheel on the hub ensures a smooth ride as long as the tire & wheel are balanced properly. Most OEM wheels are hub-centric.
Lug-centric means the "center bore" of the wheel is larger than the diameter of the vehicle's hub. The larger center bore means the wheel is centered on the hub by the lug nuts. This gap between the wheel center bore and the vehicle hub allows the wheel to shift on the hub during installation. This shift may result in some type of ride disturbance. Torquing the lugs in a "star pattern" reduces the wheel movement ensuring a smooth ride as long as the tire & wheel are balanced properly. Many aftermarket wheels are lug centric allowing for a broader choice of vehicle applications. Hub centric rings adapt the center bore to match the vehicle hub making the wheel hub centric.
Hub centric rings are small plastic or metal rings installed in the center bore to prevent the wheel from shifting during installation. The rings adapt the wheel's center bore to match the vehicle hub making the wheel hub centric. By making the wheel hub centric and preventing the wheel from shifting, rings may eliminate any potential ride disturbance issues.
Do you need hub rings? It depends.
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In most cases, hub rings are not necessary. Rings are not required if you are not experiencing any ride disturbance.
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If the wheel center bore measurement matches your car’s hub diameter, you don’t need rings. Your wheels are already hub centric, keeping the wheel centered during installation.
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If the wheel center bore is larger than that of the car's hub diameter, rings may prevent vibration issues by filling that gap and keeping the wheel centered during installation.
Note, rings may not be available for all applications.
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