Wheel covers are large decorative disks that snap onto the wheel to dress the wheel face, typically concealing the lug nuts on steel wheels. A wheel cap (often called a center cap or hubcap) is a smaller cap that sits in the wheel’s center bore to hide the hub and axle area. In common usage, people sometimes mix terms, but the practical distinction lies in size, location, and purpose.
Definitions
Below are the core definitions to help distinguish the two parts as they appear on wheels.
- Wheel cover — a large outer disk that attaches to the wheel rim and covers the wheel face, including the lug nuts on many steel wheels. It is usually clipped or twisted on and can be removed for tire service.
- Center cap / hubcap — a small cap that fits into the wheel’s center bore to cover the hub, bearing assembly, and sometimes the lug-nut area. It is often decorative and may carry the vehicle or manufacturer logo; it can be removable or integrated into alloy wheels.
These terms can overlap in everyday speech, with many people using “hubcap” to refer to the exterior trim covering the wheel, and “center cap” or “hubcap” for the center piece. The distinction primarily concerns size, position, and function.
Key differences in form and function
These points summarize how wheel covers and center caps differ in appearance and role on a wheel.
— wheel covers dress the wheel face and lug-nut area; center caps cover only the hub bore at the wheel’s center. - Mounting method — wheel covers attach to the wheel rim with clips or latches; center caps press into or screw into the center bore or hub area.
- Materials and design — wheel covers are typically plastic or composite disks; center caps can be plastic or metal and may be integrated into alloy wheels.
- Decoration and protection — wheel covers enhance overall appearance and shield lug nuts; center caps protect the hub bearing area and often display a logo.
In many wheel setups, both pieces exist (an outer wheel cover with a separate center cap), but some wheels integrate the center cap into the wheel design and may not require a separate cover.
Practical considerations
Understanding when you’ll encounter each piece helps with identification, replacement, and maintenance.
often rely on a removable wheel cover to improve appearance and protect lug nuts. - Alloy wheels frequently feature a center cap that is either part of the wheel’s design or a separate cap that can be removed for service or customization; some designs have no separate wheel cover, relying on the visible wheel face alone.
exist where the wheel’s face, lug-nut area, and center hub are a single, continuous piece, reducing or eliminating separate covers or caps.
When replacing parts, verify the wheel size, bolt pattern, and hub bore to ensure proper fit. If unsure, consult the vehicle manual or a tire/wheel technician.
Summary
In brief, a wheel cover is a large outer disk that dresses the wheel by covering the wheel face and lug nuts, typically used with steel wheels. A center cap (hubcap) is a smaller cap that sits in the wheel’s center bore to hide the hub and bearing area, often featuring the brand logo. Many modern wheels blend or omit these parts through integrated designs, but the core distinction remains: outer coverage versus center hub coverage.
What is another name for a wheel cover?
Hubcaps/Wheel Covers: These are the same thing. If your vehicle came with standard, black or steel wheels, you will likely find they also have hubcaps or wheel covers. This is for aesthetics as well as aerodynamics.
What is the difference between a wheel cap and a wheel cover?
Hub caps protect the area of the center cap but typically cover more area. Wheel covers contain the whole face of the wheel. All offer aesthetic and practical benefits to the wheel. Hub caps protect the lug nuts but a wheel cover protects the entire wheel surface.
How much does it cost to get a hubcap replaced?
An aftermarket hub cap replacement can cost you anywhere from $20 to $100 on parts alone. As for labor, you can expect to pay around an extra $20 to $200 to have your damaged hub cap professionally replaced.
Is a hubcap a rim cover?
Are Hubcaps and Rims the Same Thing? The short answer is no. Hubcaps and rims are distinct components of a wheel, each serving its purpose. While hubcaps cover the center of the wheel, rims make up the entire outer edge that holds the tyre.