Wheel spacers may not be the most well-known automotive accessory, but they certainly have their merits. These unassuming devices are often overlooked, yet they can play a significant role in enhancing both the aesthetics and performance of your vehicle. In this blog post, we'll delve into the benefits of wheel spacers and how they can help you get the most out of your ride.
Improved Handling and Stability
One of the primary benefits of using wheel spacers is the improvement in handling and stability. By widening the track width of your vehicle, wheel spacers provide a more stable and planted feel, especially during cornering and high-speed maneuvers. This added stability can lead to increased confidence behind the wheel and a safer driving experience overall.
Enhanced Appearance
Wheel spacers also offer a visual transformation for your vehicle. By pushing the wheels outward, they create a more aggressive and eye-catching stance. This added visual appeal can make your car stand out from the crowd and give it a custom look without the need for expensive modifications. Whether you're aiming for a sportier appearance or simply want to fill out your wheel arches, wheel spacers can provide the desired effect.
Increased Clearance
Sometimes, your vehicle's wheels may rub against the inner wheel arches or suspension components, particularly if you've installed aftermarket wheels or tires with different widths or offsets. Wheel spacers can help alleviate this issue by increasing the clearance between the wheels and these components. This can prevent costly damage and allow for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Improved Brake Clearance
Upgrading your vehicle's brakes to high-performance or larger aftermarket units often requires more clearance within the wheel well. Wheel spacers can provide the necessary space for these larger brake components to fit properly. This is especially crucial for enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving or track days, where superior braking performance is essential.
Customizable Fitment
One of the key advantages of wheel spacers is their versatility. They come in various sizes and configurations, allowing you to tailor your vehicle's fitment to your preferences. Whether you want a subtle adjustment or a more aggressive stance, there's likely a wheel spacer option that suits your needs.
Offset Correction
In some cases, aftermarket wheels may have incorrect offsets, causing handling issues and aesthetic concerns. Wheel spacers can be used to correct these offsets, ensuring that your wheels sit flush with your vehicle's arch line and perform optimally.
Cost-Effective Solution
Compared to other modifications like changing your vehicle's suspension or upgrading your wheels, wheel spacers are a cost-effective way to achieve improved handling and aesthetics. They offer many benefits at a fraction of the cost of more extensive modifications.
While wheel spacers may not be the flashiest automotive accessory, their benefits are undeniable. Whether you're seeking better handling, a more aggressive look, increased clearance, or simply a cost-effective way to enhance your ride, wheel spacers have something to offer. When used responsibly, wheel spacers can be a valuable addition to your vehicle, unlocking a world of advantages that can make your driving experience more enjoyable and safer.
Wheel spacers come in various types, each designed to serve specific purposes and cater to different vehicle requirements. Here are some of the most common types of wheel spacers:
Hub-Centric Wheel Spacers:
These spacers are designed to fit snugly over the hub of the wheel, ensuring that the weight of the vehicle is primarily supported by the hub, rather than the wheel studs or lug nuts. This can help reduce vibrations and improve overall stability. Hub-centric wheel spacers are recommended for most applications to maintain proper centering.
Bolt-On Wheel Spacers:
Bolt-on wheel spacers are attached to the wheel hub using longer wheel bolts or studs that thread through the spacer and into the hub. These spacers are secure and straightforward to install. They are available in various thicknesses to provide the desired track width adjustment.
Slip-On Wheel Spacers:
Slip-on wheel spacers, also known as slide-on, slip-over spacers or shim spacers, are positioned between the wheel and the existing hub without requiring any new bolts or studs. They are generally easier to install but may not be as secure as bolt-on spacers in some cases.
Here at rtecshop, we provide a variety of different spacer brands from Bimecc, Eibach, H&R, ST and more. Contact us on 01727 790 100 for more information or any enquiries about spacers for your vehicle.