So, you want to install a wheel spacer? You are probably still weighing between different options, wondering which one is the best for your car. 2-inch wheel spacers seem particularly appealing, but you keep wondering, “Are 2-inch wheel spacers too much for me and my car?”
If this sounds like your situation, you need to read this article. Here, we will tell you all you need to know about the ideal wheel spacer size for your car, so stay tuned!
What Are 2-Inch Spacers Best For?
1. For Large Cars
2-inch wheel spacers are ideal for large vehicles, such as trucks, semi-trucks, jeeps, and SUVs. These vehicles and cars can benefit from a more aggressive stance, both from an aesthetic point, but also for some practical reasons.
2. For a Wider Stance
2-inch wheel spacers make the vehicle’s stance wider, improving its stability and reducing body roll during cornering. This is particularly important for off-road vehicles, especially if you are driving them across uneven terrain, rocks, mud, and steep inclines.
3. If You Want to Install Oversized Tires
If you want to install oversized tires on your car, you won’t be able to do it without 2-inch wheel spacers. Oversized tires rub against the inner fenders or suspension parts, which is why you need to separate them and give them enough space.
4. For a More Aggressive Stance
Lastly, if you simply love the aggressive stance and wider track that you get with 2-inch wheel spacers, then they are a good choice for you. However, you will need to take some things into consideration when installing these spacers. More on that in the following section.
Are 2-inch Wheel Spacers Right For You?
If you don’t drive a large or an off-road vehicle, but you still want to install 2-inch wheel spacers, there is still a chance you can do it. You just need to consider some things before making your choice:
1. Check Your Current Fitment
Measure the distance between your tires and inner fenders/suspension components. This will tell you how much space you have to work with. You want to push your wheels outward so that your tires don’t rub against fenders or suspension components.
For example, let’s say the distance is less than 2 inches. If you install 2-inch wheel spacers, your tire will stick out past the fender and potentially rub against it. If the distance is 2 inches or more, then you can install them.
2. Protect Your Suspension System
If you install 2-inch wheels, this will increase your car’s stability, but it can also put more stress on your suspension system: wheel bearings, ball joints, and tie rods. When that happens, you will have two choices.
The first is to upgrade your whole suspension so that it can endure more wear and tear. The second is to ignore potential issues, but this will inevitably lead to suspension breakdown.
3. Bolt-On vs. Slip-On Spacers
Another thing to consider is whether you want to install bolt-on or slip-on wheel spacers. 2-inch spacers come in both variants, but bolt-ons are much more common. This is because bolt-on wheel spacers bolt on to your car’s hub, which makes them a safer and sturdier option. So, if you choose to go with 2-inch spacers, avoid slip-on options because they are less safe.
4. Are 2-Inch Wheel Spacers Legal?
In some areas, installing thick wheel spacers (including 2-inch ones) is illegal and can get you fined and make you fail safety inspections. That’s why you need to check the local laws before deciding to install these spacers.
5. Prioritize Your Safety
Finally, you need to prioritize your safety whenever installing any modification on your car, including the wheel spacers. Don’t just choose what looks cool - choose what will keep you safe while driving.
Also, don’t try to save money by buying cheap wheel spacers. Invest in high-quality spacers made by reputable manufacturers. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to break the bank to buy such spacers. There are many affordable, yet durable and high-quality wheel spacers out there; you just need to know where to find them.
How To Determine What Size Wheel Spacers You Need
Maybe you aren’t even sure what size wheel spacers you need or want. If that’s the case, you can easily determine it on your own. First, you will have to measure the gap between your tire and the inner fender. Use a straight edge to do it. The measured gap is the maximum width of wheel spacers you can use.
Then, still using the straight edge, measure the clearance on the inside. In other words, measure the distance between the tire and components such as the control arms and shock absorbers. If the tire is too close to these components, you will need a wheel spacer thick enough to create space between them.
Best 2-Inch Wheel Spacers To Consider
Previously, we mentioned how important it is to use high-quality wheel spacers. After all, you don’t want to buy the cheapest ones that might break in the middle of a drive. Yet, that doesn’t mean that you should go for the most expensive ones. The best wheel spacers combine high quality and affordability, and these are our top two picks:
2 Inch Wheel Spacers with M12x1.5 Studs
This wheel spacer set will give 4 inches to your axle track (2 inches per side), and improve your car’s stance, stability, and cornering. It is made of T-6 aircraft-grade aluminum with heat-treated bolts, perfect for prolonged use:
4x156 2-Inch Wheel Spacers
This set is made for most Polaris Rangers, RZRs, and Kawasaki ATVs from 1987–2012. It is made from forged T6 aluminum with Dacromet-coated bolts and rear-facing slots. As such, these wheel spacers offer lightweight strength, superior corrosion resistance, and easy installation and removal:
Conclusion
So, after reading this article, are 2-inch wheel spacers too much for you? You know the right answer, given your car’s size, intended use, and other important factors we explained in this article. No matter what you decide, always choose durability and safety over looks.
