How to Measure Center Caps?

Wheel center caps are a great accessory that adds style and has an important utility purpose. Despite that, they are quite fragile to physical damage, prone to deterioration and can be easily stolen. And that is why it is important to learn how to get the necessary measurements for a replacement.
To measure your center caps, you will need to take three measurements with a simple or digital caliper: outer diameter, inner diameter and depth. To get the right size, you will need all three dimensions. Otherwise, the caps you buy might fit poorly and get lost.

How Do I Measure My Center Cap Size?

The best way to measure your center cap size is by using a caliper. This versatile tool will help you eliminate any possible error while measuring the outer and inner cap diameters. This can get tricky since you absolutely have to find the widest part of the center cap to get this right.
Even a caliper requires a special technique to measure diameters. For a precise number, put the center cap on an even, flat surface and then place the caliper parallel to that surface. Do not put it at a 90-degree angle, or you risk missing the right spot.

How to Measure the Outer Diameter?

To ensure the perfect fit, measure your wheel's outer diameter starting from the front of the cap. Remember to place the caliper correctly. The right place will be where the cap's edges reach maximum width. Measure in a straight line to get as accurate results as possible and use that measurement when selecting a center cap.

Aftermarket center caps vary in size greatly. So make sure you get this specification right to ensure that your lug nuts and hub will be protected from dirt and water. The outer diameter shows how well the cap will cover the vital parts of the wheel.

How to Measure the Inner Diameter?

For an accurate measurement of the inner diameter, place a caliper between the two farthest snap clips on the backside of your center cap. Make sure to measure in a straight line for precise results.

This part of the center cap has to fit the wheel like a glove. If it is too big, the cap will simply not fit and can brake during installation. And if it is even a fraction of a millimeter too small, the cap will come loose and detach.

How to Measure the Depth?

To accurately measure the center caps depth, simply determine the length of each clip. Unless there are additional requirements, these measurements will remain fairly consistent - so it is important that you double-check your results.

This measurement is easy to get. Depth can be measured with a ruler or a measuring tape instead of a caliper. But for the diameter, we recommend using only a caliper.

How Not to Measure Center Cap Size?

You can not get an accurate center cap size by measuring a center bore. This measurement will not help you find a fitting replacement center cap for your wheels. Instead, grab a caliper and get the outer and inner diameters and depth of existing caps. It is a fairly simple process that should not take much time or effort once you find out how to do it properly.