17 inch winter rims - steel or alloy?

[digital_rogue]

Just purchased a 2016 Rogue SV and planning to get winter tires and rims. Should I get steel or alloy?

Steel -- less expensive, but I would want to add wheel covers; and I wonder how much if I will save in the long run, esp. if I have to replace the covers from time to time due to loss or damage. I expect to keep the car for 7 or 8 years.

Alloy -- how well will they hold up over the years? I am in Toronto.

[TrevorK]

Personally I would look for a set of used alloys with used winter tires. You can save quite a bit while getting a set of nice looking alloys.

If you are not comfortable with that, then I would just buy a new set of alloys. I don't know if you will save a lot on used alloys alone given the price of new ones.

[drummerguy]

Just to add my 2 cents when I purchased my vehicle the dealer wanted me to get tire and rim insurance ($500.00). I was told the alloy rims from them were worth about $900.00 apiece. I believe alloy rims could be purchased for less elsewhere. Needless to say I declined their offer.

[Mahkyc]

I'm going with steel rims on my snow tire set. My winter tires will only be on my car for 3 months, relatively easy to find used, and can be banged back into shape after hitting a pothole.

[digital_rogue]

Hello -- I decided on steel rims plus wheel covers. I wanted something carefree and the tire store where I made the purchase told me that alloy rims for winter use are not likely to keep their looks over the years.

[Maximus099]

My dealer had a "promo" when I bought the car on 16" steels with a decent winter tire for $600. it also included installation so I decided to give it a go and I'm very pleased. I just had the covers to purchase.