Symptoms
- Rubbing or scraping sound while turning at low speed
- Rubbing over bumps or when the suspension compresses
- Noticed right after installing new wheels or wider tires
Likely causes
- CommonWrong wheel offset for the vehicleOffset determines how far the wheel sits in or out from the hub; the wrong offset can push the tire into the fender or brake caliper.
- CommonTires too wide for the wheel wellWider tires than stock can rub the fender liner, especially when turning or loaded with passengers.
- PossibleSuspension lowered without corresponding wheel/tire adjustmentLowering the car reduces clearance and can cause rubbing that wasn't there before.
What to do
- Note exactly when the rubbing happens: turning, over bumps, with passengers, or all the time.
- Check the wheel offset and tire width against the manufacturer's specifications for your suspension setup.
- Inspect the fender liner and brake components for contact marks that show exactly where rubbing occurs.
- Consider wheel spacers, different offset wheels, or fender rolling if the fit is close but not correct.
- Consult the shop or seller who installed the wheels, since incorrect fitment is often something they can help correct or exchange.
Tools and parts
Correct-offset wheels for your vehicleSearch: “wheel offset for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
A wheel and tire shop can measure clearance and recommend the correct offset, width, or spacers to eliminate rubbing.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.