What offset does my car have?
Your car’s wheel offset isn’t universal; it’s specific to the model and the wheel you’re using. The exact offset value is listed in OEM specifications or stamped on the wheel itself. If you share your car’s make, model, year, and the wheel size you’re considering, I can look up the precise OEM offset for you.
Understanding wheel offset
Wheel offset measures the distance, in millimeters, from the wheel’s mounting surface to its centerline. It helps determine whether the wheel sits more inward or outward in the wheel well and influences brake clearance, suspension travel, and fender contact. Offset can be positive, negative, or zero, and the correct offset is essential for safe fitment and predictable handling.
How to find your car's offset
The offset value is typically printed on the wheel, shown in vehicle specifications, or available from the manufacturer. The following methods are reliable ways to locate it:
- Check the wheel itself for an ET stamp or label, usually found on the backside or inside face near the hub bore. The ET value is the offset in millimeters.
- Look at the vehicle’s door jamb sticker or the owner’s manual for wheel size information; some cars list the OEM wheel configuration, including offset.
- Consult the OEM parts catalog or the dealer’s service resources for your exact model and trim; you can search by VIN, model, and year to pull the official offset spec.
- For aftermarket wheels, refer to the wheel manufacturer’s product sheet or the retailer’s listing to confirm the offset and compatibility with your car.
- If you’re unsure, ask a technician or parts specialist at a dealership or tire shop to pull the official offset spec for your vehicle.
Knowing the offset helps you choose wheels that fit properly without rubbing and without affecting steering or braking performance. When changing wheel width or diameter, offset becomes even more important, as small changes can change track width and clearance.
Interpreting the offset numbers
In wheel offset terms, smaller (lower) ET numbers generally push the wheel outward toward the fender, while larger (higher) ET numbers pull the wheel inward. The exact effect also depends on wheel width and suspension geometry, so the same offset can behave differently on different cars.
Common offset ranges (general guidance)
Most modern passenger cars use positive offsets, typically in the range of about ET30 to ET60. SUVs and crossovers commonly fall in the ET40 to ET65 range, while some performance wheels may be lower in offset to widen stance. These are broad guidelines; always verify your specific vehicle’s OEM spec or the exact wheel you plan to install.
Practical steps if you want to change offset
If you’re considering wheels with a different offset, follow these steps to avoid clearance issues:
- Choose an offset as close as possible to the OEM value (within roughly 5–10 mm) when changing wheel width or diameter.
- Be mindful that a wider wheel with the same offset will alter the stance and may require additional adjustments.
- Consult a tire and wheel specialist to assess brake, suspension, and fender clearance, especially for lowered vehicles or larger wheels.
Summary: offset is a key parameter for wheel fitment and vehicle handling. Accurate information from OEM specs or trusted suppliers ensures safe, reliable fitment. If you share your car’s details, I can locate the exact OEM offset for you.
Summary
To determine your car’s wheel offset, identify the offset value from the wheel stamping (ET), the vehicle’s official documentation, or the manufacturer’s catalog. When changing wheel size or width, keep offsets within a safe range to preserve clearance and handling. If you provide your car’s make, model, year, and preferred wheel size, I’ll look up the precise offset for you.
What does +35 offset mean?
A positive offset, like +35, means the mounting surface is located toward the front (or street side) of the wheel's centerline. A zero offset places the mounting pad at the wheel's centerline, while a negative offset means the mounting pad is set closer to the back (or brake side) of the wheel.
How do I find my car's offset?
Place a solid, flat item, such as a board, across the wheel so that there's a flat surface touching both sides of the wheel. Then, using a ruler or tape measure, measure the distance from the mounting surface to the base of the object. Now you have your offset!
What does +20 offset mean on rims?
WHAT DOES POSITIVE OFFSET MEAN? If the back pad is in front of the wheel's centerline, towards the wheel's face, the offset is positive. So a wheel with the back pad 20mm in front of the centerline of the wheel, the offset becomes +20.
How do I tell what my offset is?
And you subtract half the wheel width. And that is going to give you your offset. This wheel right here from MGI is an 18 by 9 12 with a 15 offset.
