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How to Choose the Right Wheels for Your Build: A Quick Guide
Picking the right wheels isn’t just about looks — the wrong size or spec can affect how your car drives, wears tires, and even fits brakes. Here’s a simple guide to understanding the main wheel specifications so you can choose with confidence.
1. Wheel Diameter (inches)
This is the size of the wheel from edge to edge — 17”, 18”, 19”, etc.
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Why it matters: Larger wheels can give your car a more aggressive look and allow for bigger brakes, but they may reduce ride comfort. Smaller wheels are lighter and often cheaper.
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Tip: Stick close to your factory size unless upgrading for performance or style.
2. Wheel Width (inches)
Measured across the wheel from inside lip to inside lip — 8.5”, 9.5”, etc.
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Why it matters: Wider wheels allow wider tires, which means more grip. But go too wide and you risk rubbing or poor handling.
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Tip: Match your width to your tire size and your car’s clearance.
3. Offset (ET)
Offset is how far the mounting surface of the wheel sits from the centerline.
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Positive offset (ET35, ET45): Wheel sits further inside the arch.
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Negative offset (ET-10, ET0): Wheel sits further outward, giving a concave or “deep dish” look.
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Why it matters: Wrong offset can cause rubbing on fenders, suspension, or brakes.
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Tip: Most modern cars use positive offsets — check your OEM specs first.
4. PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter)
This is the number of bolt holes and the circle diameter they sit on (e.g. 5x114.3).
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Why it matters: The PCD must match your car’s hub pattern exactly. If it doesn’t, the wheel won’t fit.
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Tip: Count your lugs and check your vehicle manual or online guide before ordering.
5. Centre Bore
The size of the hole in the middle of the wheel that fits over the hub.
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Why it matters: A perfect fit keeps the wheel centered and prevents vibrations.
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Tip: If the bore is larger than your hub, you can use hub-centric rings.
6. Load Rating & Certification
Each wheel has a maximum load rating. Make sure it matches or exceeds your car’s requirements. In Australia, look for ADR compliance for road legality.
Wheel Spec Comparison Table
| Spec | What It Means | Why It’s Important | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | Wheel size in inches | Affects looks, ride comfort, and brake clearance | Stick close to factory size |
| Width | Inside lip-to-lip measurement | Determines tire width and grip | Ensure clearance before going wider |
| Offset (ET) | Mounting surface position | Impacts stance and clearance | Check OEM offset for safe fit |
| PCD | Bolt pattern (e.g. 5x114.3) | Must match car’s hub | Always confirm before buying |
| Centre Bore | Hole for hub fitment | Prevents vibrations | Use hub rings if bore is larger |
| Load Rating | Max weight wheel can handle | Safety and legality |
At WheelWork, we help you match form and function. Our team can guide you through options based on your goals, whether it’s better grip, sharper turn-in, or just a more aggressive stance.
Don’t just go for what’s trendy. Go for what works. And always check for load rating and certifications—those little details matter when pushing your car to the limit.
Need help choosing? Hit up our team. We got you.
