I went to take off a tire and discovered that the metal ring (which the dealer calls a spring) is missing from the back of the small hubcap on the alloy wheels. The dealer says that this is a special order item. Is there any alternate source or same size ring to be found somewhere, eg. Lowes?

I probably have been driving around without it since getting new tires a year ago, so maybe it is really not needed (?)

Hey , I have looked high and low for those retainer rings and can`t seem to find them . I hope you can find one , sorry . Larry

I have learned to remove the lug cover center cap or hubcaps myself. Less scratches, no lost parts. No broken nothing. (just crossed threads.)
TOm

Hey , the same thing happend to me . I think it was the monkey that over torqued my wheel about a year ago and lost the spring clip too . The yards are the best source . I have a couple somewhere but can`t seem to locate them . The dealer could probably order one for the price of a new wheel . I`ll try to look again and see what I can find if I have an extra its yours . Larry

Used center caps are not all that rare on Ebay and could possibly cost less than a replacement spring. Just make sure any used one you look at has the spring ring included. Just an idea to think about.

It's basically a snap ring, but I've not seen an aftermarket version. Try a spring company online. If you find an alternative, let us know for the FAQ.
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See the 700/900 FAQ at the "select shortcut' button, upper right of your screen.