Wheel size troubles

[nconti13]

Hi all,

I've had my Sonic for a few months now and have decided to get a set of rims and tires for her. Right now, the stock 15s are too small and narrow for my liking.

About a week ago I got a set of 17" Andros Spec D rims and SUMITOMO HTR Z II tires. When I went to test fit the rims with my mechanic, the fitment is very very close, and we feared that with the tires mounted on that the wheels would rub on the shocks and plastic fender liner, so we put the 15s back on and I contacted tire rack. They are insisting the wheels will fit without issue, but I don't want to risk damaging the rims and not being able to get my money back. I will probably end up returning the wheels, but I like the tires and will probably end up keeping those.

My questions are, first, am I crazy for not believing the wheels will fit? The width is 8", offset is 42mm and backspacing is 6.06". What should I look for as far as wheel measurements to avoid fitment issues? The tires that I would like to keep are 225/45ZR-17. I appreciate any help, and can provide pictures later if anyone would like to see how close the rim comes to the shocks.

 

[Beastlick]

you could always add a spacer to help clear the struts. IIRC there's someone on here running an 18" wheel 9.5 wide.

 

[nconti13]

The only issue I have with wheel spacers is I don't really want to drop another $100-$200...what would be the best option at a low price? I would like to avoid spacers if possible

 

[sonic_braaappp]

there are people running wheels waaaaaaay wider than that.

If you're that paranoid, put the wheels/tires on the car, go for a short 1 mile drive that includes making normal turns etc., then park, turn the steering wheel all the way one direction so you can check the inside of wheels/tires without lifting/jacking the car up, check and see if there is any wheel/tire scarring

 

[The Champ]

Here is a link to the OE rim sizes:

http://www.sonicownersforum.com/for...ic-wheels-dimensions-weights-offsets-etc.html

Your OE 15x6" rims have 39mm offset, the factory 17x6.5" have 41.5mm offset.

I run 225/50/16's (24.9" tall)on my stock 16x6" rims (39mm offset).

3mm (difference between my rims and your's) is only .1". Your tires are less than .1" of an inch taller than mine.

I can't imagine having a problem with rubbing with that combo.

 

[kevjam79]

205/50 R17 is the optimum size. Your 225/45 will only be .4 tenths of an inch wider in the direction of the strut/shock. With you your offset or tire widths, I don't know how that compares to the stock setup. It should work.

Use this website to do the complete comparison: Custom rims, wheel tire packages for your ride - RIMSnTIRES.com

 

[AndrewGS]

You're going to rub the strut, rear splash shield and shock boot with that offset and tire. I've got an effective offset of 36mm and my 225s juuuuuuuuuust clear the strut but still kiss the rear splash shield.

People are running 9.5" wheels with stretched tires and an aggressive offset as well as aftermarket coilovers.

 

[DWolfe2010]

18x9.5" et20 on 215/35


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