Wheel spacers are one of the most popular upgrades for car enthusiasts — offering improved stance, better handling, and clearance for larger brakes or wheels. But while the installation process seems simple, even a small mistake can lead to vibration, uneven tyre wear, or unsafe driving conditions.
To help you get the best results, here are the most common mistakes to avoid when fitting wheel spacers — and how to install them the right way.
1. Choosing the Wrong Spacer Type
Not all wheel spacers are created equal.
One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is using the wrong type for their car.
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Hub-Centric Spacers: These align perfectly with the vehicle’s hub, ensuring the wheel sits evenly and vibration-free.
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Lug-Centric Spacers: These centre based on the bolts, not the hub — and if misaligned, they can cause wheel wobble or uneven stress.
Always choose hub-centric spacers that match your car’s exact centre bore measurement. They offer the safest and most precise fit.
2. Incorrect Spacer Thickness
Going too thick can cause wheel poke, rubbing, or even damaged suspension geometry.
Too thin, and you might not get the stance or clearance you want.
Measure carefully using a straight edge and feeler gauge to find the correct thickness that brings your wheels flush with your arches — without interference.
3. Not Checking Bolt or Stud Length
Your wheel bolts or studs must have enough thread engagement after adding spacers.
Using spacers without the correct-length bolts can cause your wheels to loosen under stress.
Always replace your bolts or studs with extended versions to match your spacer thickness.
4. Failing to Clean the Hub and Spacer Surfaces
Rust, dirt, or corrosion between the hub, spacer, and wheel can prevent a proper fit — causing vibrations or misalignment.
Before installation, clean all contact surfaces thoroughly with a wire brush and brake cleaner.
Apply a light coat of anti-seize compound to prevent corrosion without affecting torque accuracy.
5. Incorrect Torque Application
Tightening bolts by feel or with an impact gun is a major no-no. Over- or under-tightening can warp spacers or damage threads.
Always use a calibrated torque wrench, tightening bolts in a star pattern to evenly distribute pressure.
Check torque again after 50–100 miles of driving.
6. Ignoring Wheel Alignment
After installing spacers, your car’s track width changes, which can slightly affect alignment.
Skipping an alignment check may lead to uneven tyre wear or pulling to one side.
Have your alignment checked after installation — especially if you’ve fitted wider wheels or changed suspension geometry.
Conclusion
Installing wheel spacers is a simple yet precise process. When fitted correctly, they enhance your car’s look, handling, and brake clearance — all without compromising safety.
But a single mistake — like using the wrong size, skipping torque checks, or neglecting cleanliness — can quickly turn this upgrade into a problem.
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