Installing New Center Caps

Hello! Newbie Claudine here with another question.

Could someone please advise on how to install center caps? The replacement cap I purchased appears to have metal extensions that should help it snap in, but it never locks securely. What am I doing wrong?

Thank you!

 

Which wheels are you working with, @Claudine?

 

You have to position the metal springs inside the plastic fingers, and put it on straight.

The plastic is brittle and it may be broken

Show us a picture so we can help.

 

Do they look like this?

 

The metal spring fits inside the cap.

Look for the fingers with "hooks". The spring will fit on these "hooks" to give the a flex and holding power to the "hooks". It should be clear how the spring fits, just gently and firmly snap it into place.

Install of the caps to the wheels is a bit delicate to avoid breaking.
The method I use is to set the cap in position with one side seated. Then begin pressing the other side as the cap begins to flex, I give a firm rap with my palm.

Removal is a more tweaky operation to avoid breaking.
The method I use is a flat screwdriver covered with a layer of shop towel. Insert screwdriver on the cap side of a lug nut. Push and pry simultaneously. The cap should pop off.

Remember, gentle firm force will suffice.

 

Pic reference for above posted advice regarding required center metal ring :

 

Uh oh.....that last pic looks somewhat different from the rear side of the caps I have and am trying to replace on the missing wheel face:

 

Yep definitely caps. Hopefully the picture you added will narrow down an answer to your question.

 

For the steel wheel center caps make sure you have the metal clips on the back of the cap, position it on the wheel so the holes on the cap line up with the lug nuts, then give it some good hits with your fist (or a rubber mallet). Don’t wail on the thing, but it takes a little oomph. If it’s loose you may be missing some of the metal clips on the back of the center cap that secure it to the wheel

 

Thanks, everyone! A friend helped, and it was done in about a minute or less.

I so appreciate this forum and all the help everyone offers. I'm freaking delighted to be in a Tacoma.