Wheel Fitment

Correct Wheel Fitment

When purchasing aftermarket wheels there are many issues that need to be addressed. I have created a list of things to consider when purchasing your wheels.  They are:

-Size
-Offset
-Bolt pattern
-Hub size
-Spacers

Size:

After selecting the style you want size comes into play. There are three different ways to size a wheel. The first method is simply to choose a larger wheel, while retaining the original tire profile. The tire profile is the distance between the top of the wheel to the top of the tire. This method increases the overall diameter of the wheel and tire assembly. In most cases this is not the ideal way to do it.

The second method is called plus sizing, the diameter of the wheel increases, and the profile decreases, making the entire assembly the same overall diameter as stock. This is ideal because it keeps the vehicles speed sensors in calibration. 

The third way to measure size is width of the wheel. Depending on your vehicle the width sizes available will vary.

Offset:

The offset you choose plays into how wide you can have your wheel. A negative offset pushes the wheel further outwards towards the fender and a positive pushes the wheel in towards the center of the vehicle. With a more negative offset, wider wheels can fit. But choosing a wheel with too much negative offset can affect fitment when the vehicle turns and the wheels may make contact with the fender wells, suspension, fender etc.

Bolt Pattern:

This is simple. Each vehicle has a certain number of lug nuts, 4,5,6, or 8. This must be addressed when purchasing your wheels. Depending on your vehicle the pattern will be one of two bolt patterns. For instance most Nissan 4 lugs are 4X114.3 and most Honda 4 lugs are 4X100. The 4 stands for the amount of lug nuts and the 114.3 and 100 are the millimeters in-between the lug nuts.

Hub Size: The hub size is in the center of the wheel. It varies in size between cars. When purchasing a set of wheels it’s important to make sure it's either as big or bigger than the hub on your vehicle. If it’s bigger, you can purchase a set of hub-centric rings which are adapters that go over the hubs to ensure a good fitment.

Spacers:

Spacers are bolt on or slip on assemblies that go between the wheel and brake rotor. This changes the offset, making it more negative. This can make wheels clear the brake caliper if they come in contact with them or be used to achieve a wider track and more aggressive look. There are some safety concerns when it comes to slip on spacers though.  When installed they take away some of the threads for your lug nuts, so I don't suggest using them. The other form is bolt on spacers, which use the stock lug nut studs and are generally safer.

These are all the things you must consider before purchasing your wheels to ensure proper fitment and safety.

Drive Safe!