1. What is Wheel Offset?

Wheel offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. It determines how far in or out the wheel sits in the wheel well and affects vehicle handling, suspension geometry, and tire clearance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple offset formula:

Where:

• Old Offset — Original wheel offset measurement in millimeters
• Spacer — Thickness of the wheel spacer being added in millimeters
• New Offset — Resulting wheel offset after spacer installation

Explanation: Adding a wheel spacer effectively changes the wheel offset by pushing the wheel further out from the hub.

3. Importance of Correct Wheel Offset

Details: Proper wheel offset is crucial for vehicle safety, handling characteristics, and preventing damage to suspension components. Incorrect offset can cause premature wear, rubbing issues, and affect steering response.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your current wheel offset and the thickness of the spacer you plan to install. Both values should be in millimeters. Ensure measurements are accurate for proper calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is positive and negative offset?
A: Positive offset means the mounting surface is toward the front face of the wheel, negative offset means it's toward the back. Most factory wheels have positive offset.

Q2: How does offset affect wheel fitment?
A: Lower offset pushes wheels outward, increasing track width. Higher offset pulls wheels inward, providing more inner clearance but less outer clearance.

Q3: Are wheel spacers safe to use?
A: Quality hub-centric spacers with proper installation are generally safe. Always use correct lug nuts/bolts and ensure adequate thread engagement.

Q4: What are the legal limits for wheel offset changes?
A: Regulations vary by location. Generally, wheels shouldn't extend beyond the fenders, and modifications should not adversely affect vehicle safety.

Q5: Can I calculate offset changes for multiple spacers?
A: Yes, simply add the total spacer thickness to your original offset. For multiple spacers, sum all spacer thicknesses before calculating.