Can I put 22 inch rims on a Dodge Journey?
Not generally advisable. While it may be physically possible to mount 22-inch rims on some Dodge Journey models, doing so is likely to cause clearance issues, ride quality problems, and potential safety or warranty concerns. OEM or near-OEM sizes are typically recommended for this vehicle.
The Dodge Journey, produced from 2009 through 2019 and now out of production, never offered factory 22-inch wheels. Aftermarket fitting depends on the exact year and trim, but it comes with significant caveats: you may encounter rubbing, altered speedometer readings, and adverse effects on the vehicle’s electronic safety systems. The following guide explains the fitment realities and safer alternatives for Journey owners considering larger wheels.
Fitment realities
Understanding the core constraints helps determine whether 22-inch rims could work on this platform.
Bolt pattern and hub bore
Wheel compatibility starts with matching the vehicle’s lug pattern and center bore. If the bolt pattern or bore size doesn’t match, the wheel cannot be safely mounted without adapter solutions, which can introduce new risks.
- The Dodge Journey uses a five-lug pattern and a center bore that must align with the hub for proper seating and wheel centering.
- Adapters or spacers can alter steering geometry and braking clearance, and are generally discouraged for daily use on passenger crossovers.
- Always verify exact specs for your specific year, trim, and wheel choice with a trusted dealer or wheel specialist.
Ensuring the bolt pattern and bore are correct is a foundational step; otherwise, the wheel won’t fit correctly or safely.
Offset, width, and clearance
Offset (the distance from the hub mounting surface to the centerline of the wheel) and wheel width determine how far the wheel sits inside or outside the fender and how it clears brakes, suspension, and bodywork.
- 22-inch wheels often require low-profile tires to maintain overall diameter, which can degrade ride comfort and increase vulnerability to road hazards.
- Incorrect offset or excessive width can cause rubbing against fenders, control arms, or brake components at full steering lock or suspension compression.
- Maintaining proper alignment with the factory suspension is crucial to avoid handling changes and uneven tire wear.
Without appropriate offset and clearance, 22-inch rims are prone to contact and handling issues that can compromise safety and reliability.
Safer alternatives and practical paths
If the goal is a stronger visual impact while preserving safety and reliability, consider these more prudent options instead of jumping straight to 22 inches.
- Stick to factory-supported or commonly used aftermarket sizes, typically up to 19 inches for most Journeys; confirm with a dealer or tire/wheel specialist for your exact year and trim.
- Choose tires that preserve the overall diameter close to stock so that the speedometer, ABS/ESC systems, and drivetrain behave as expected.
- Work with a reputable shop experienced in wheel fitment to ensure proper clearance, alignment, and lug-torque specifications; avoid improvised modifications.
- Be aware of warranty and insurance implications; large-wheel changes can affect coverage and may require disclosures or policy adjustments.
These safer options aim to deliver a visually appealing result without compromising the Journey’s safety, reliability, or warranty protections.
Practical steps to verify feasibility
If you’re set on exploring the possibility of 22-inch wheels, follow these steps to assess feasibility for your specific vehicle and year.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a Dodge dealer to confirm the exact bolt pattern, center bore, and recommended wheel sizes for your model year and trim.
- Have a qualified tire/wheel shop measure clearance with the steering at full lock and the suspension fully compressed to check for potential rubbing.
- Test a calculation of overall diameter to ensure the new wheel/tire combination will not significantly alter speedometer accuracy or gearing.
- Check for brake clearance with the proposed wheel to avoid interference with calipers, rotors, or wheel spokes.
With careful verification and professional guidance, you can determine whether a 22-inch setup is truly feasible for your Journey, or if a safer alternative is preferable.
Summary
In most cases, 22-inch rims are not recommended for a Dodge Journey due to fitment, ride, safety, and warranty considerations. The vehicle’s platform and suspension are designed around smaller wheels, and mounting significantly larger wheels can lead to rubbing, altered handling, and electronics issues. For an optimal balance of style and reliability, consider sticking to OEM or near-OEM sizes (generally up to 19 inches) and consult a qualified wheel and tire professional before making any changes. If you pursue aesthetics, prioritize safety, and ensure the entire wheel/tire package maintains the vehicle’s original diameter and clearance.
