OEM Replica Wheels vs. Aftermarket Rep Wheels

Are Rep Wheels Different From OEM Replica Wheels?

If you've been shopping for aftermarket car or truck wheels in the last couple years, you've more than likely come across brands selling what they refer to as "rep" wheels. Now, it should come as no surprise that this is short for "replica," but in the world of aftermarket wheels, there are two types of reps to keep in mind.

Today, we want to take you on the grand tour of OE replica wheels and "Rep" wheels to show you what they are, what makes them different from each other, and whether or not they're worth it for your build. Let's jump right in and see what these guys bring to the table!

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What Is An OEM Replica Wheel?

We'll start with the wheel types that are a bit easier to understand - these, of course, are OEM replica wheels. OEM reps are what their name suggests - they're fully-fledged aftermarket wheels that are built to simulate the design of standard wheels on popular car, truck and SUV models, only with better build quality and higher durability than you'd generally find from the factory.

The benefits of OEM replica wheels are pretty easy to determine; first, the familiar designs that they offer are more than enough for most drivers, who want the performance upticks of aftermarket wheels while keeping the same original look that their existing vehicles have. Also, since most OEM replica wheels are built to accommodate similar bolt patterns and sizes, your build is opened up to popular styles from all over the automotive world. Say, for instance, that you have a Chevy Tahoe and you really wanted some Escalade wheels for it - a good OEM replica brand will have the perfect option for you.

Read More: What Is The Biggest Lift Kit I Can Install On My Truck?

What Are The Best OEM Replica Wheel Brands?

Some of our favorite OEM replica wheel brands include top manufacturers like Factory Reproductions, OE Performance and 4Play, as they not only make some of the highest-quality OEM wheels in the business, but you can also find wheels from these brands to fit the exact specifications of your car.

What Is A Rep Wheel?

So now that you know what OEM replica wheels are, what about a "Rep wheel"? Rep wheels, in the simplest terms, are aftermarket wheels that simulate the look and feel of other aftermarket wheels instead of OEM wheels. They usually have the same designs and are available in the same dimensions and bolt patterns, only with build processes that lead them to cost a fraction of the price as "real" wheels.

Some examples of brands that can be considered "reps" are XXR and AVID1, both of which have wheels that are reminiscent of options from top models like BBS and Volk for prices well below $1000.

Read More: How To Find The Bolt Pattern of Your Wheels

Are Rep Wheels Worth It To Buy Over Real Wheels?

It really depends on which camp you belong to, because unfortunately, rep wheels do have quite a stigma that surrounds them, most of all in terms of the construction and finish quality. In general, rep wheels don't have the same type of glossy and professionally-done finish that real wheels do, and some of the materials that are used in manufacturing rep wheels can be lacking in terms of build quality, which could lead to premature damage and cracking.

With that said, if you're strapped for cash and looking for a set of wheels that look like real wheels that might be out of commission, or you can deal with a bit of a lack of quality, then rep wheels can be a good option - just make sure you know what you're getting into before you snag your set.

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Whether you're in the market for a wheel to upgrade your existing OEM look, or you want a rep wheel to give your vehicle a complete aesthetic refresh, we've got you covered. And we can also get you some of the best prices in the business on whichever wheel brand you choose - all you have to do is add your favorite wheels to the cart, fill out a quote, and then give it about a day. Your price will be in your email inbox, and from there, we'll get your wheels shipped right to your door. Check out our inventory and grab the best aftermarket wheels in the industry today!