WHERE CAN I RECYCLE MY RIMS?
When it comes to disposing of old car rims or wheels, recycling them is an eco-conscious option that also helps reduce waste in landfills. Most recycling centers, such as Cohen, accept metal rims for recycling. It is always a good idea to check in advance before bringing in old rims to ensure that the recycling center or retailer will accept them. By recycling old car rims, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment while also potentially earning some extra cash.
WHAT ARE RIMS MADE OF?
Modern rims are typically constructed from aluminum alloy. Up until the late 1960s, the industry-standard was magnesium alloy, but as the vehicle manufacturing process developed, aluminum alloy became the preferred production material. Aluminum is lighter than magnesium, has a less brittle nature, and boasts a superior heat conducting ability.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RIMS AND HUBCAPS?
While rims are typically made from an aluminum alloy, hubcaps are usually constructed from metal or plastic. These cosmetic, stylized accessories cover the wheel but don’t offer extra strength or practical benefit. But they do look cool!
HOW MUCH MONEY CAN I GET FOR MY USED RIMS?
Since rims vary in style and weight, they typically need to be assessed individually. Generally, the more aluminum present in the rims, the more they will be worth. If you’re looking for an exact price-per-pound quote, bring them to your nearest recycler.
DO I NEED TO BRING THE RIMS IN SEPARATELY?
Yes. Before bringing in your used rims in recycling, please remove them from the accompanying tires. We ask that you do this, because Cohen currently does not offer tire recycling services.
HOW DO I REMOVE THE TIRE FROM THE RIM?
Luckily enough, you probably won’t need to call a mechanic to remove the tire from the rim.
Here’s how to do it yourself in your own garage:
- Remove the air valve
- Lift the tire over the lip of the rim with a pry bar and/or screwdriver
- Repeat this maneuver at several points around the tire
- Work the screwdriver around the rim to pop the remainder of the tire above the rim
- Repeat this procedure on the other side of the tire
- Apply soap as lubrication, if necessary
IS TIRE DUMPING ILLEGAL?
In several states, disposing of scrap tires inappropriately is illegal due to environmental concerns. In Ohio, for example, government regulations only allow the disposal of scrap tires at licensed scrap tire locations and monofills. This means that it is prohibited to throw used tires in the trash, on the side of the road, or in landfills. Monitoring and enforcing these regulations are essential to safeguard public health and the environment from tire fires, mosquitoes (which breed in stagnant water collected in tires), and other hazards that the accumulation of waste tires can pose. By ensuring that scrap tires are disposed of properly, we can help minimize the environmental and health risks associated with storing and dumping of scrap tires.
WHAT DO I DO WITH MY OLD TIRES?
Once you’ve safely removed the tire from the rim, there are several things you can do with it. While you can’t recycle it, you can still get some use out of it, if the tire isn’t damaged:
- Make a tire swing
- Turn it into a sandbox
- Add a glass surface to the top to make a table
- Many more! Get creative with it.
