2013-2016 Dodge Dart Wheel Cover: Sizing, Part Numbers, and Bolt-On Replacement
Your definitive guide to identifying and replacing the 16-inch and 17-inch bolt-on wheel covers for the Dodge Dart, ensuring a secure fit.
- You must verify if your Dart has 16-inch or 17-inch wheels before buying; the covers are not interchangeable.
- These are bolt-on wheel covers held by the lug nuts, which is more secure than clip-on styles.
- When installing, it is critical to tighten the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs in a star pattern for safety.
- When buying a used cover, the most important check is for cracks around the lug nut mounting holes.
Symptoms of a Failing or Missing Wheel Cover
Failure of a wheel cover is typically easy to spot. Because it's a non-mechanical part, symptoms are almost always visual or audible.
- Visual Damage: The most common symptom is visible damage from impacts. This includes cracks, deep scuffs from hitting a curb (curb rash), and a peeling or faded finish.
- Rattling or Clicking Noises: If a wheel cover is cracked or a mounting point is broken, it can become loose. This will often produce a rattling or clicking sound that changes with wheel speed as the loose plastic vibrates against the steel wheel.
- Missing Cover: The most obvious sign of failure is a completely missing wheel cover. While the bolt-on design makes this rare, it can happen if the lug nuts were not properly torqued after a tire change or if a significant impact, like hitting a large pothole, physically breaks the cover off the wheel.
Variant Differences: 16-Inch vs. 17-Inch
The 2013-2016 Dodge Dart came with two different sizes of steel wheels, and each has a unique wheel cover. These parts are not interchangeable.
Warning: You must confirm your wheel size before purchasing a replacement. A 17-inch cover will not fit on a 16-inch wheel, and vice versa.
To find your wheel size, check the sidewall of your tire. You will see a series of numbers like 205/55R16 or 225/45R17. The number immediately following the 'R' is your wheel diameter in inches.
- 16-Inch Wheel Cover: Fits Dart models with R16 tires. Features a 5-spoke design.
- 17-Inch Wheel Cover: Fits Dart models with R17 tires. Also features a 5-spoke design, but with different styling.
Buying a Used 2013-2016 Dodge Dart Wheel Cover
Purchasing a used OEM wheel cover is an excellent way to save money while retaining factory quality and fit. Aftermarket copies are available, but often use more brittle plastic and may not match the original's appearance or durability. Here’s what to look for when buying used:
- Confirm the Size: Double-check if you need a 16-inch or 17-inch cover. This is the most critical step.
- Inspect the Mounting Holes: This is the most important inspection point. Since the cover is held on by the lug nuts, the plastic around the five lug nut holes must be solid and free of cracks. A crack in this area means the cover cannot be safely secured and should be rejected.
- Check for Cracks and Fractures: Examine the entire surface and outer edge for cracks. Small hairline cracks can grow over time from vibration and temperature changes.
- Assess Cosmetic Condition: Look for deep curb rash, peeling paint, or heavy discoloration. Minor scuffs can often be cleaned or touched up, but deep gouges cannot be repaired.
- Verify OEM Markings: A genuine Mopar part will often have a part number stamped on the back. This helps ensure you are getting an original quality part.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Dodge or the NHTSA for the wheel covers on the 2013-2016 Dodge Dart. Problems with this part are related to wear, impact damage, or improper installation rather than a manufacturing defect.
Cost Comparison
Prices can vary based on condition and supplier. The following table provides an estimated cost range for a single wheel cover.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Single Cover) |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $75 - $130 |
| New Aftermarket | $35 - $55 |
| Used OEM | $25 - $50 |
Installation Guide (Difficulty: 1/5)
Replacing a wheel cover on a Dodge Dart is a simple task that anyone can do. The estimated time is about 15-20 minutes per wheel.
Tools & Supplies:
- Lug Wrench or 19mm Socket with Breaker Bar/Ratchet
- Torque Wrench
- Jack and Jack Stands (recommended for safety)
Step-by-Step Replacement:
- Park on a Level Surface: Engage the parking brake.
- Loosen Lug Nuts: While the car is on the ground, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen (about a half-turn) the five lug nuts on the wheel. Do not remove them yet.
- Lift the Vehicle: Using a proper jack point, lift the corner of the vehicle until the tire is off the ground. Place a jack stand securely under the frame for safety.
- Remove Lug Nuts and Old Cover: Finish unscrewing the five lug nuts and place them aside. The old wheel cover will now come right off.
- Position the New Cover: Align the new wheel cover. There is a small notch or cutout that must align with the tire's valve stem.
- Reinstall Lug Nuts: Thread all five lug nuts back on by hand until they are snug. This ensures they are not cross-threaded and that the wheel cover is seated flat against the wheel.
- Lower the Vehicle: Remove the jack stand and lower the vehicle until the tire is just touching the ground.
- Torque the Lug Nuts: Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the factory specification of 100 ft-lbs (136 Nm). Tighten them in a star pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly. Do not overtighten.
Pro Tip: After driving 25-50 miles, it's a good practice to re-check the torque on the lug nuts to ensure they have remained tight.
Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Fitment | 2013-2016 Dodge Dart with steel wheels |
| Attachment Style | Bolt-On (held by lug nuts) |
| Lug Nut Torque | 100 ft-lbs (136 Nm) |
| 16-Inch OEM Part Numbers | 04726162AA, 4726162AA, 04726162AB, 4726162AB |
| 17-Inch OEM Part Numbers | 04726163AA, 4726163AA, 4726384AA |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are the 16-inch and 17-inch Dodge Dart wheel covers interchangeable?
No, they are not. You must use the cover that matches your wheel diameter. Check your tire's sidewall for 'R16' or 'R17' to determine your size.
Are these wheel covers clip-on or bolt-on?
They are a bolt-on style. They are held on by the actual lug nuts, making them much more secure than typical clip-on hubcaps.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing a wheel cover?
No. A wheel cover is a lightweight cosmetic part and has no impact on your vehicle's alignment or wheel balance.
Can I drive without a wheel cover?
Yes. Driving without a wheel cover is perfectly safe. It is purely a cosmetic issue and does not affect the performance or safety of the vehicle. Your steel wheel and lug nuts will be more exposed to the elements, but this poses no immediate risk.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 04726162AA (16-inch) 04726162AB (16-inch) 4726162AA (16-inch) 4726162AB (16-inch) 04726163AA (17-inch) 4726163AA (17-inch) 4726384AA (17-inch)
Attachment: Bolt-On Lug Nut Torque: 100 ft-lbs (136 Nm)
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Dodge Dart:
- Symptoms of a Failing or Missing Wheel Cover
- Variant Differences: 16-Inch vs. 17-Inch
- Buying a Used 2013-2016 Dodge Dart Wheel Cover
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Cost Comparison
- Installation Guide (Difficulty: 1/5)
- Tools & Supplies:
- Step-by-Step Replacement:
- Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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