Wheel offset is the distance between the wheels mounting surface and the centerline of the wheel. It is an important factor to consider when customizing your ride with aftermarket wheels and tires. Proper offset ensures that your new package has enough clearance so that nothing rubs against the suspension, brakes, or vehicle body, such as fenders, bumpers, and mud flaps. It is also important for driving safety, as the wrong offset can reduce vehicle stability or interfere with braking. There are three types of wheel offset:
- Zero wheel offset is when the hub mounting surface is in line with the centerline of the wheel.
- Positive wheel offset is when the hub mounting surface is in front (more toward the street side) of the centerline of the wheel. Most wheels on front-wheel drive cars and newer rear-drive vehicles have positive offset.
- Negative offset is when the hub mounting surface is behind (more toward the brake side) of the centerline of the wheel.
To choose the right offset for your vehicle, you need to consider factors such as the width of the wheel and where the centerline of the wheel resides. The lower or more negative the offset is, the more the wheel will stick out of the car, while the higher the offset is, the more the wheel will be tucked in.
