At times, conflicting views are formed in relation to the worth of a particular aftermarket automotive modification. A prime example of this exact scenario relates to the debate which surrounds whether or not wheel spacers are safe for use.
Despite the fact that some factions believe wheel spacers are not only safe but also extremely useful, others argue that they are dangerous, and should never be installed on automobiles for any reason.
Therefore, where does the truth lie, and which school of thought is most in line with facts regarding the matter? Read on to learn more about wheel spacers, and whether or not they are safe for use in your car.
What Do Wheel Spacers Do?
A wheel spacer is used to widen the stance of a vehicle. We do this by adding space between the mounting flange that surrounds each wheel position, and the inner face of the wheel itself. As a result, each wheel is outwardly displaced by a distance equal to the thickness of the spacer.
Variety of thicknesses, diameters, and bolt patterns for wheel spacers, which makes it possible for nearly any consumer to locate a set of spacers that are compatible with their specific application.
In most cases, the use of spacers requires one to purchase aftermarket wheel studs or lug nuts for the proper thread engagement.
Wheel Spacer Benefits
Usually, wheel spacers are used to create greater wheel offset by increasing the distance between a vehicle’s wheels and their corresponding hub assemblies. The utilization of wheel spacers for plenty of reasons, with those as follows being the most widespread.
1 – Improved Grip and Traction
The wider a vehicle’s wheelbase, the greater its grip and traction. By installing wheel spacers, you can increase the wheelbase of an otherwise stock vehicle.
That's why wheel spacers are often used in racing situations.
2 – Proper Wheel Parts
As time flies, an ever-increasing number of motorists shift their attention toward the use of custom wheels and aftermarket tires. Wheels with an improper offset can cause frame or suspension interference.
The use of wheel spacers may be the easiest way to eliminate such fitment issues, especially in off-road or truck applications. However, you need to note the size of the fitted wheel gaskets when purchasing.
3 – Increased Aesthetic Value
Many motorists choose to employ the use of wheel spacers on their vehicles in order to increase their aesthetic value. In many applications, a wider than stock wheelbase can be visually attractive and offer an outwardly aggressive look.
Disadvantages of wheel spacers
Likewise, there are a few downsides to using wheel spacers, which have led many motorists to avoid them. The most common con is as follows associated with wheel spacers used.
1 – Wheel Vibration
Vehicle manufacturers typically engineer each of their models to provide superior ride quality and driveability. Each model is optimized by establishing optimal front-end geometry.
The use of wheel spacers or any other modification of angles and dimensions can cause more wheel vibration.
2 – Accelerated Component Wear
Factory wheel-end components are designed and tested to provide optimal service for the stock application in which they are used. Whereas, the widening of a vehicle’s wheelbase causes the increment of operational pressure on each of these components.
Accordingly, components such as bearings, axles, and hubs, often wear at an accelerated rate, beyond what would be expected when wheel spacers were not used.
3 – Fender Interference Issues
Although wheel spacers can help fix suspension and frame interference issues, they can also cause fender interference problems. The vehicle’s wheelbase is widened, factory wheel-to-fender clearances are reduced when increasing wheel offset. Finally, this can lead to tire rub or fender destruction.
