The complete guide about wheel spacers
If you want to improve your car’s handling and appearance, adding wheel spacers at KSP Performance is one of the easiest and most cost-effective modifications you can make. Wheel spacers are metal or aluminum disks that fit between the hub and the wheel, pushing the wheel outwards. It creates a wider stance, improving stability and cornering while giving your car a more aggressive look. In this article, we’ll review what wheel spacers are, their benefits, and the important things you should know before installing them.
What are Wheel Spacers?
Wheel spacers are typically made from high-grade aluminum or steel, lightweight and durable materials. They are designed to fit onto the hub of your car, between the wheel and the hub, pushing the wheel outwards. Wheel spacers are available in various thicknesses and sizes, allowing you to customize the stance of your car to your preference.
Benefits of Wheel Spacers
There are several benefits to adding wheel spacers to your car, including the following:
Improved Handling and Stability
A wider wheel stance can improve your car’s stability and handling, especially during cornering. The wider perspective created by wheel spacers can help reduce body roll, giving you better control over your vehicle.
Better Traction
A wider wheel stance also means that your car’s tires will have a better grip on the road. This can be especially beneficial if you live in an area with rainy or snowy weather conditions.
Enhanced Appearance
Wheel spacers can give your car a more aggressive look by pushing the wheels out to the edge of the fenders. This wider stance can also share your car a more muscular and sporty appearance.
Things to Consider Before Installing Wheel Spacers
Before you decide to install wheel spacers on your car, there are a few important things to consider:
Compatibility
Not all wheel spacers are compatible with every car make and model. Ensuring that the spacers you’re considering are designed for your specific car is essential.
Size and Thickness
Wheel spacers come in various thicknesses and sizes, so you must choose the right one for your car. Make sure you know the correct measurement and select the correct spacer that fits perfectly.
Installation
Installing wheel spacers requires some technical knowledge and experience. If you need more confidence in your abilities, having a professional install them for you is best.
Drawbacks of wheel spacers
While wheel spacers can have several benefits, there are also a few potential drawbacks that you should be aware of before deciding to install them on your car.
These include:
Increased Stress on Suspension Components
Installing wheel spacers can increase the stress on your car’s suspension components, particularly the wheel bearings. This increased stress can lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in costly repairs.
Safety Concerns
Installing wheel spacers can affect your car’s handling and stability, particularly if not installed correctly. This can increase the risk of accidents or loss of control, especially when driving at high speeds.
Legal Issues
In some states or countries, installing wheel spacers may be illegal. Before installing them, you must check local laws and regulations to ensure you’re not breaking any rules.
Compatibility Issues
While wheel spacers are designed to fit specific car models, they may not be compatible with all aftermarket wheels. This can limit your options when choosing new wheels for your car.
Aesthetic Downsides
While wheel spacers can improve your car’s appearance, they can also have aesthetic downsides. For example, they can make your wheels appear too far outside the wheel arches, which can look odd or out of proportion.
Can I install wheel spacers myself?
While it is possible to install wheel spacers yourself, it’s important to have the right tools, knowledge, and experience. Installing wheel spacers involves several technical steps, including removing the wheels, installing the spacers onto the hub, and reattaching the wheels. You’ll also need to torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure proper installation.
If you’re confident in your abilities and have experience working on cars, you can install wheel spacers yourself. However, if you need clarification or the necessary tools and expertise, it’s best to have a professional mechanic or car customization expert install them.
Improperly installed wheel spacers can lead to safety issues, premature wear, and tear on suspension components, and other problems, so it’s essential to ensure they’re installed correctly. A professional mechanic or car customization expert will have the tools and expertise to ensure your wheel spacers are installed safely and correctly.
How to maintain wheel spacers
Maintaining wheel spacers is relatively easy and requires only a few simple steps. There are some tips to help you keep your wheel spacers in good condition:
- Check the Torque Settings
It’s important to periodically check the torque settings on your wheel spacers, especially after the first few hundred miles of use. This will help ensure they remain securely fastened and don’t loosen over time. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific torque settings for your wheel spacers.
- Keep Them Clean
Regularly clean your wheel spacers to remove dirt and debris that can accumulate on them. Use a mild soap, water solution, and a soft brush or cloth to clean them gently. Avoid employing harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that could damage the surface of the spacers.
- Inspect for Wear and Tear
Periodically inspect your wheel spacers for signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks, corrosion, or other damage that can compromise their structural integrity. If you notice any damage, replacing the spacers is important.
- Use Proper Lug Nuts
Make sure you’re using the correct lug nuts for your wheel spacers. Some wheel spacers require longer lug nuts than standard ones. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the right lug nuts to use with your spacers.
- Consider Professional Inspection
If you need clarification on the condition of your wheel spacers or their installation, consider having them inspected by a professional mechanic or car customization expert. They can ensure that your spacers are in good condition and properly installed.
Conclusion
Adding wheel spacers is a simple and cost-effective way to improve your car’s handling and appearance. By widening your car’s wheel stance, you can enhance its stability and cornering abilities while giving it a more aggressive look. Consider compatibility, size, and installation before installing wheel spacers.
