Upgrading your vehicle with aftermarket wheels is one of the most popular ways to completely transform the look, stance, and personality of your ride. Whether you drive a lifted truck, performance car, daily driver, SUV, or off-road build, the right wheel setup can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality.

But choosing aftermarket wheels involves much more than simply picking a style you like. Wheel sizing, offsets, bolt patterns, tire compatibility, intended use, and build quality all play major roles in ensuring your new setup performs properly and safely.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know when choosing aftermarket wheels for your vehicle.

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Factory wheels are designed to satisfy a broad range of drivers and manufacturing costs. Aftermarket wheels allow you to personalize your vehicle and tailor it to your specific driving needs.

Whether you’re building a rugged off-road truck or a clean street cruiser, the right wheels help define your vehicle’s identity.

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One of the first things you’ll notice when shopping for wheels is sizing terminology.

Example wheel size:
20×10

This breaks down into:
20 = Wheel diameter (in inches)
10 = Wheel width (in inches)

Wheel Diameter

Common aftermarket wheel diameters include:
15″ – 16″ – 17″ – 18″ – 19″ – 20″ – 22″+

Keep in mind that larger wheels usually require lower-profile tires, which can create a firmer ride.

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Wheel Width Matters

Choosing the correct width for your intended tire size is critical.

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What is Wheel Offset?

Offset is one of the most important—and misunderstood—parts of wheel fitment.

Offset determines how far the wheel sits inward or outward relative to the hub mounting surface.

Why Offset Is Important

Incorrect offset can cause:

Tire rubbing
Suspension interference
Poor steering feel
Increased stress on wheel bearings
Reduced handling performance

A more aggressive offset may look great, but proper fitment always matters more than appearance alone.

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Your new wheels must match your vehicle’s bolt pattern exactly.

Even a small mismatch means the wheels will not properly mount to the vehicle.

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Choosing Wheels for Your Driving Needs

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Wheel Load Rating Matter

This is especially important for:

Trucks
SUVs
Diesel vehicles
Towing setups

Every wheel has a maximum load rating. Choosing wheels that cannot properly support your vehicle weight can create serious safety concerns.

Always ensure your wheel load rating meets or exceeds your vehicle requirements.

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Don’t Forget Tire Compatibility

Your wheels and tires must work together properly.

Things to consider:

Tire width compatibility
Overall tire diameter
Suspension clearance
Fender clearance
Lift of leveling kit requirements

Changing wheel size often affects tire size selection as well.

For example:

Larger wheels usually use lower-profile tires
Smaller wheels can support taller sidewalls

A properly balanced wheel-and-tire package improves both appearance and drivability.

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Will Bigger Wheels Affect Ride Quality?

YES

Larger wheels with thinner tire sidewalls often result in:

Firmer ride quality
More road noise
Increased risk of wheel damage from potholes

Smaller wheels with larger tire sidewalls generally provide:

Better ride comfort
Improved off-road performance
Better impact absorption

Choosing the right balance depends on how you use your vehicle.

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Finish Options & Maintenance

Aftermarket wheels come in many finishes, including:

Gloss black
Matte black
Bronze
Machined
Chrome
Gunmetal
Polished aluminum
Custom Colors

Consider your climate and maintenance habits when deciding on a finish option.

In Alberta, road salt and winter driving can be tough on wheel finishes. Regular cleaning and proper seasonal care help extend wheel life.

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Choosing Style Over Fitment
A wheel might look great online but fit poorly on your vehicle.

Ignoring Offset
Improper offset can create rubbing and suspension issues.

Buying Cheap Low-Quality Wheels
Poor-quality wheels may crack, bend, or fail prematurely.

Forgetting About Load Ratings
Critical for trucks and towing applications.

Not Planning Tire Size Properly
Wheel and tire fitment should always be planned together.

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Professional Fitment Advice Matters

There are countless wheel options available today, and choosing the right setup can quickly become overwhelming.

A professional shop can help you determine:

Correct sizing
Proper offset
Tire compatibility
Suspension clearance
Lift or leveling requirements
Load rating needs
Overall fitment goals

The right wheel setup should not only look great, but also drive properly, safely and reliably.

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Aftermarket wheels are one of the best upgrades you can make to personalize your vehicle and improve its overall appearance and capability. But choosing the right wheels involves much more than simply picking a design you like.

Understanding wheel sizing, offsets, bolt patterns, materials, and intended use helps ensure you invest in a setup that performs as good as it looks.

Whether you want a clean street setup, aggressive off-road stance, or performance-focused build, taking the time to choose the correct wheels will make all the difference in your driving experience.

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Light Bars vs Pods & Understanding Beam Patterns

Upgrading your vehicle’s lighting isn’t just about looks—it’s about visibility, safety, and performance, especially here in Alberta where dark highways, backroads, and job sites are part of everyday driving.

Whether you’re building out a work truck, overland rig, or weekend warrior, understanding the differences between light bars, pod lights, and beam patterns is key to getting the right setup.

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Light Bars vs Pod Lights:

What’s the Difference?

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Understanding Beam Patterns (This Is Where It Matters Most)

Choosing the right beam pattern can make or break your lighting setup. It determines how the light is distributed in front of your vehicle.

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Color Temperature: White vs Amber

White (6000K–6500K):

Bright and crisp
Best for clear conditions

Amber / Yellow:

Cuts through:

Snow
Fog
Dust

Reduces glare and eye fatigue

👉 In Alberta winters, amber lighting is a game-changer for visibility.

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Key Features to Look For

When choosing lighting, don’t just look at brightness—focus on quality and reliability:

Lumens vs Lux (usable light vs total output)
Build Quality (aluminum housing, impact resistance)
IP Rating (waterproof/dustproof – look for IP67/IP68)
Wiring Harness & Relays
Mounting Hardware
Warranty & Brand Reputation

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How to Choose the Right Setup

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Professional Installation Matters

Proper installation ensures:

Safe wiring (no shorts or battery drain)
Clean integration with your vehicle
Correct aiming for maximum effectiveness
Compliance with road regulations

A clean install isn’t just about looks—it’s about reliability and peace of mind.

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Final Thoughts

Lighting upgrades are one of the most impactful mods you can make to your vehicle—but only if you choose the right combination of lights and beam patterns.

The best setups aren’t always the biggest—they’re the ones that are purpose-built for how you actually drive.

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Need Help Choosing the Right Lighting Setup?

At Those Guys Garage, we help you:

Choose the right lights for your driving style
Source trusted brands like Baja Designs, Rough Country, and more
Professionally install and wire everything cleanly and safely

👉 Stop guessing and get it done right the first time.

Book your lighting upgrade today.

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What All Those Numbers and Letters Actually Mean

Your tires do far more than just keep your vehicle rolling down the road. They affect your vehicle’s handling, fuel economy, ride comfort, braking ability, and safety.

However, when you look at the sidewall of a tire, it can feel like you’re reading a secret code — numbers, letters, and symbols that most drivers don’t understand.

In this guide, we’ll break down what those tire markings mean, how to read them, and why they matter when choosing the right tires for your vehicle.

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Why Tire Information Matters

Choosing the correct tire for your vehicle isn’t just about size. Each tire contains critical information about:

Load capacity
Speed capability
Tire construction
Weather performance
Manufacturing details

Understanding these markings helps ensure you’re running safe, properly rated tires for your vehicle and driving conditions — especially important for Canadian drivers dealing with rain, snow, and extreme temperature changes.

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How to Read a Tire Size

Most passenger tires use a format similar to this:
Example: 275/65R18 116T

Each part of that code provides specific information about the tire.

Understanding Load Index

After the size, you’ll usually see a load index number.

Example: 116

This number represents the maximum weight the tire can support when properly inflated.

For example: 116 = 2,756 lbs per tire

For trucks and SUVs, choosing a tire with the proper load rating is especially important when:

Towing
Hauling cargo
Running accessories like campers or racks

Speed Rating

The final letter indicates the maximum safe speed rating for the tire.

Example: T

Common speed ratings include:

Rating Max Speed

Most trucks and SUVs typically use S, T, or H rated tires.

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M+S vs Winter Tires

You’ll often see these markings on tires:

M+S (Mud and Snow)

This means the tire has a tread pattern designed to perform better in light snow and muddy conditions.

However, it is not a true winter tire.

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3-Peak Mountain Snowflake

This symbol indicates a certified winter tire that meets strict snow traction testing standards.

Winter tires provide:

✔ Better grip in snow
✔ Improved braking on ice
✔ Softer rubber compounds for cold weather

In Alberta winters, this symbol is the best indicator of a true winter tire.

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DOT Code: Tire Manufacturing Date

Every tire has a DOT code that indicates where and when it was manufactured.

Example: DOT X1AB 4523

The last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was produced.

Example: 4523 = 45th week of 2023

Even if tread looks good, tires generally should be replaced after 6–10 years due to rubber degradation.

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Other Tire Markings You May See

XL or Extra Load
Designed to carry higher loads at higher inflation pressures.

LT (Light Truck)
Built for trucks, SUVs, and heavy-duty applications with stronger construction.

Run-Flat
Allows you to drive a limited distance after losing air pressure.

Directional Arrows
Indicates the tire must rotate in a specific direction for proper performance.

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Choosing the Right Tires for Your Vehicle

When selecting tires, several factors should be considered:

Vehicle type
Driving habits
Weather conditions
Load requirements
Off-road vs highway driving

Truck owners often upgrade tires when installing:

Lift kits
Leveling kits
Off-road wheels
Overlanding setups

Choosing the correct tire size and rating ensures your vehicle performs safely and efficiently.

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Need Help Choosing the Right Tires?

At Those Guys Garage, we help drivers find the right tires for their vehicle and driving style. Whether you’re looking for all-terrain tires, winter tires, or an aggressive off-road setup, our team can help you choose the right combination for performance and safety.

If you’re unsure what tire size or rating is best for your vehicle, stop by the shop or contact us and we’ll help you get rolling with confidence.

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✔ Book your appointment today
✔ Upgrade your tires with confidence
✔ Drive safer in every season

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In today’s driving environment — from congested Edmonton commutes to unpredictable winter road conditions — a dashcam is no longer a “nice-to-have” accessory. It’s a practical, risk-management tool that protects drivers legally, financially, and personally.

Whether you’re running a lifted F-150, a daily commuter SUV, or a work truck outfitted for Alberta job sites, here’s a technical breakdown of why a dashcam matters and what features you should evaluate before purchasing one.

Accident Protection & Insurance Support

A dashcam provides timestamped, real-time video documentation. In the event of:

Rear-end collisions
Intersection disputes
Hit-and-run incidents
Fraudulent “brake check” claims

Video footage removes ambiguity. Insurance providers increasingly accept dashcam footage as supporting evidence, which can:

Speed up claim resolution
Protect against false liability
Reduce legal exposure

In winter-heavy regions like Alberta, where black ice and low visibility contribute to accidents, recorded footage can clarify fault when road conditions are questionable.

Protection While Parked

Parking Mode Surveillance

Higher-tier dashcams offer parking mode, which activates recording when:

Motion is detected
Impact sensors (G-sensors) trigger
Someone approaches the vehicle (advanced radar-based systems)

This is especially valuable for:

Mall or arena parking lots
Work trucks parked at job sites
Street parking in residential areas

If someone dings your door and drives off, the camera may capture a license plate or identifiable details.

Enhanced Driving Awareness

Modern dashcams often include:

GPS tracking – Records vehicle speed and location.
ADAS alerts – Lane departure and forward collision warnings.
Interior cabin cameras – Useful for rideshare or fleet vehicles.
WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity – Download footage instantly to your phone.

For fleet operators or commercial vehicles, dual-channel systems (front + interior or rear) improve driver accountability and operational transparency.

Dashcam Feature Breakdown: What to Look For

Not all dashcams are equal. Below is a structured comparison of common feature categories:

1. Video Resolution

Higher resolution = better evidence quality, especially at highway speeds.

2. Field of View (FOV)

Be cautious of extreme wide-angle distortion — quality optics matter more than just angle specs.

3. Single vs Dual vs 3-Channel Systems

Single Channel – Front-facing only
Dual Channel – Front + Rear
3-Channel – Front + Rear + Interior

Dual channel systems are ideal for:

Highway commuters
Larger trucks and SUVs
Lifted vehicles with limited rear visibility

4. Night Vision & Low-Light Performance

Look for:
Sony STARVIS sensors
HDR (High Dynamics Range)
WDR (Wide Dynamic Range)

These improve plate readability in:
Snow glare
Rain
Low-light urban streets

5. G-Sensor & Impact Detection

An internal accelerometer locks and protects footage when sudden deceleration or impact is detected. This prevents overwriting critical accident clips.

6. Storage Capacity & Loop Recording

Dashcams record continously and overwrite old footage unless:
An event is locked
Manual save is activated

7. Hardware Kit vs 12V Plug In

Plug-In (Cigarette Port)
Easier install
No parking mode (in most cases)
Hardwired
Enables parking mode
Cleaner install (no visible wires)
Requires professional installation of proper fuse tap connection

For customers wanting a factory-clean look, hardwiring is the recommended solution.

Who Benefits Most from a Dashcam?

Daily commuters on Anthony Henday or Whitemud
Lifted truck owners with blind spots
Parents with new drivers
Commercial vehicle operators
Rideshare drivers
Off-road enthusiasts documenting trail runs

Is a Dashcam Worth It?

From a cost-benefit standpoint, absolutely.

A quality dashcam system typically costs less than:
An insurance deductible
One minor at-fault claim
One disputed traffic violation

Final Thoughts

A dashcam is not about expecting the worst — it’s about being prepared for it.

With Alberta’s changing weather, high-traffic corridors, and busy commercial environments, having documented proof of events can be the difference between a smooth claim process and months of disputes.

If you’re considering adding a dashcam to your truck or SUV, evaluate your driving habits, parking environment, and whether you’d benefit from single or multi-channel coverage. Need help selecting the right setup for your vehicle? A properly installed, hardwired system ensures full functionality and clean integration — especially important in modern vehicles with advanced electrical systems.

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What It Really Means, What It Doesn’t, and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

The check engine light is one of the most misunderstood warnings on a vehicle dashboard. For some drivers, it triggers immediate panic. For others, it becomes an ignored glow that stays on for months. The truth sits somewhere in the middle.

Let’s break down the most common myths surrounding the check engine light, explain what it actually does, and outline what drivers should do when it turns on.

What the Check Engine Light Actually Is

The check engine light (also known as the Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is part of your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system. It monitors engine performance, emissions systems, and many supporting components using sensors throughout the vehicle.

When the system detects something operating outside of its normal parameters, it stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and illuminates the light.

Important note:
The check engine light is not a single-problem indicator. It can represent hundreds of different faults, ranging from minor to serious.

Myth #1: “The Check Engine Light Means My Engine Is About to Blow”

Reality: Not usually.

In most cases, a steady (non-flashing) check engine light indicates a non-urgent issue, such as:
A loose or failing gas cap
An emissions system fault
A sensor reporting abnormal data

These problems typically do not mean immediate engine damage. However, they still matter and should be diagnosed.

Exception:
If the light is flashing, that indicates a severe misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. A flashing light means you should reduce driving immediately and have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

Myth #2: “If the Car Drives Fine, the Light Doesn’t Matter”

Reality: Modern vehicles can hide problems well.

Today’s vehicles are designed to maintain drivability even when faults are present. Just because the car feels normal does not mean everything is operating correctly.
Ignoring the light can lead to:
Increased fuel consumption
Emissions system damage
Long-term engine or drivetrain wear
Costly repairs that could have been prevented early

A small issue now can become an expensive repair later.

Myth #3: “Disconnecting the Battery Fixes the Problem”

Reality: This only clears the symptom, not the cause.

Disconnecting the battery may temporarily turn off the check engine light by clearing stored codes. However:

The underlying problem is still there
The light will return once the system detects the issue again
Valuable diagnostic information may be lost

Modern diagnostics rely on stored data and system readiness monitors. Clearing codes without repairs can actually make diagnosis harder.

Myth #4: “A Cheap Code Scan Tells Me Everything I Need to Know”

Reality: A code is a starting point, not a diagnosis.

A diagnostic trouble code tells technicians where to look, not necessarily what part to replace. For example:
An oxygen sensor code does not always mean the sensor itself has failed
A misfire code does not automatically mean bad spark plugs

Proper diagnosis involves:
Reading live data
Testing components
Inspecting wiring and connectors
Verifying the root cause before repairs

Replacing parts based on codes alone often leads to unnecessary costs and unresolved problems.

Myth #5: “The Check Engine Light Only Has to Do With Emissions”

Reality: Emissions are only part of the picture.

While emissions compliance is a major function, the system also monitors:
Fuel delivery
Ignition performance
Engine timing
Air intake and exhaust systems
Transmission-related inputs (on many vehicles)

An issue affecting engine efficiency, even if it feels minor, can trigger the light.

Myth #6: “It’s Safe to Ignore It Until the Vehicle Fails Inspection”

Reality: Waiting can cost you more.

Delaying diagnosis often results in:

Failed emissions tests
More extensive repairs
Reduced fuel economy over time

Additionally, some faults prevent readiness monitors from completing, meaning your vehicle may fail inspection even if the light turns off temporarily.

What You Should Do When the Check Engine Light Comes On

1 – Check if it’s flashing or steady
Flashing: Reduce driving and book service immediately
Steady: Schedule a diagnostic appointment soon

2 – Check simple items first
Ensure the gas cap is tight and undamaged

3 – Have the vehicle properly scanned and diagnosed
A professional diagnostic scan provides accurate information
Root-cause diagnosis prevents repeat failures

4 – Don’t Ignore It
Early diagnosis almost always saves money

Final Thoughts

The check engine light is not your enemy—it’s your vehicle communicating that something needs attention. While it doesn’t always mean catastrophic failure, it should never be ignored or dismissed.

Understanding what the light actually represents allows you to respond appropriately, protect your vehicle, and avoid unnecessary repairs down the road.

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