What rims will fit a RAM 1500?
The RAM 1500 generally accepts 5-lug wheels with a 139.7 mm bolt circle and a 92.1 mm center bore, but fit depends on year, trim, and brake clearance. The most reliable approach is to verify bolt pattern, center bore, offset, and width for your exact vehicle.
Rims that fit this pickup are typically designed for a 5x139.7 mm bolt pattern, with a matching hub size and appropriate offset to maintain proper track width and tire contact. The RAM 1500 has offered a broad range of wheel diameters—from 17 inches up to 22 inches—depending on model year and trim. When upgrading, it’s essential to check brake clearance, hub bore, and lug-seat type, and to consider sensors (TPMS) and lug hardware. This guide walks you through the key factors and best practices to determine compatible rims for your RAM 1500.
Bolt pattern, center bore, and lug requirements
Below are the core specifications you must match or properly accommodate when selecting RAM 1500 rims.
- Bolt pattern: 5 bolts on a circle of 139.7 mm (5x139.7 mm, commonly written as 5x5.5 in). Verify this pattern on your specific truck, especially if you’re buying from a different generation.
- Center bore: 92.1 mm. If a wheel’s center bore is larger, you may need hub-centric rings to ensure proper alignment and avoid vibration.
- Lug hardware and seat: Most RAMs use M14x1.5 lug nuts with a 60-degree conical (tapered) seat; some aftermarket wheels are lug-centric, which can change how lug hardware is used.
- Hub-centric vs. lug-centric: OEM wheels are typically hub-centric to the 92.1 mm bore; aftermarket wheels can be hub-centric or lug-centric. If the wheel isn’t hub-centric to RAM’s hub size, rings or a precise fit may be necessary.
- Brake clearance: Some aftermarket wheels may intrude into brake calipers or large brake rotors. Verify inner clearance (backside diameter and spoke design) to avoid contact.
Rims that match these specifications reduce vibration, maintain precision in steering, and protect wheel components. If the wheel does not match these exact specs, you should consult the wheel manufacturer or a qualified shop before purchasing.
Width, diameter, and offset considerations
Choosing the right diameter, width, and offset is crucial for fitment, ride quality, and tire compatibility. The RAM 1500 supports a range of wheel sizes, but you must ensure the selected wheel won’t rub against suspension components or fenders and will still accommodate your tire size.
- Diameter range: Common RAM 1500 wheels run from 17 to 22 inches. Lower trims or factory options typically use 17–18 inch wheels, while many higher trims and late-model RAMs offer 20–22 inch wheels.
- Width considerations: Wheel width affects tire width and clearance. Typical options include 8–9.5 inches wide for most 17–20 inch wheels, with wider widths appearing on some 20–22 inch setups. Wider wheels require careful attention to tire width and fender clearance.
- Offset implications: Offset determines how far the wheel sits in or out relative to the hub. Too positive or too negative an offset can cause rubbing or alter steering geometry. Use offsets recommended by the wheel manufacturer for RAM 1500 applications or stick to OEM-equivalent ranges.
- Tire compatibility: Ensure your chosen tire size is compatible with the wheel width; mismatched tire widths can cause rubbing or improper deflection under load.
- Brake and caliper clearance: Larger diameters or wider widths can interfere with calipers, braided lines, or suspension components. Always verify clearance at full steering lock and with suspension travel.
When selecting rims, it’s best to consult the wheel manufacturer’s fitment chart for RAM 1500 and to confirm your exact year and trim. If in doubt, a reputable tire-and-wheel shop can confirm clearance and provide install guidance.
Year and model considerations
RAM 1500 wheel options have evolved over generations. While most modern RAM 1500s share the 5x139.7 mm bolt pattern and 92.1 mm center bore, older generations may differ. Always confirm the exact specs for your vehicle by checking the door sticker, owner’s manual, VIN-specific documentation, or by asking a Ram dealer or qualified wheel shop.
For example, if you are shopping for a used RAM 1500, verify the following for your year/model before purchasing rims: the bolt pattern, center bore, and lug hardware; the maximum brake clearance for your trim; and whether the wheel’s offset and width are compatible with your tire setup. If you’re upgrading from a stock wheel to a larger diameter, have the installation and alignment checked to ensure proper fitment and safety.
Special cases and tips
Some RAM 1500 trims with larger brakes or distinctive suspension setups may have tighter clearance. In such cases, you may need a wheel with more generous inner clearance or a particular spoke design to clear calipers. Additionally, TPMS sensors often need to be moved or recalibrated when switching wheels, and hub rings may be required for aftermarket wheels with a different bore.
In short, the most reliable path to the right rims is to verify the exact wheel specs for your RAM 1500 (year, trim, and options) and cross-check them with the wheel manufacturer’s fitment chart or a trusted shop. If possible, bring your vehicle’s VIN or the OEM wheel part number when shopping to ensure a precise match.
How to verify fit for your RAM 1500
Use these steps to confirm compatibility before purchasing wheels or tires for your RAM 1500.
- Check the vehicle’s documentation or door jamb sticker for the wheel specs: bolt pattern, center bore, offset, and wheel size.
- Measure or confirm the bolt pattern (five lug holes, spacing around 139.7 mm) on your hub.
- Measure the center bore (hub hole) and determine if hub rings are needed for aftermarket wheels.
- Confirm brake clearance by comparing the wheel’s inner diameter to the caliper and rotor dimensions; test fit if possible.
- Consider TPMS compatibility; ensure sensors will work with the new wheels or plan to transfer them.
- Check the wheel width and diameter against tire requirements and fender clearance to avoid rubbing at full steer or suspension travel.
After performing these checks, consult with a wheel retailer or shop to finalize a fitment that preserves safety, performance, and the vehicle’s warranty where applicable.
Summary
For RAM 1500 rims, the baseline compatibility is a 5x139.7 mm bolt pattern and a 92.1 mm center bore, with wheel options commonly ranging from 17 to 22 inches in diameter. The critical factors are bolt pattern, center bore, offset, width, brake clearance, and TPMS compatibility. Always verify the exact specs for your year, trim, and options, and when in doubt, consult a reputable wheel shop or the manufacturer’s fitment charts to avoid rubbing, vibration, or safety issues. By following these guidelines, you can confidently select rims that fit your RAM 1500 and deliver the look and performance you want.
