Can rims of the same size be replaced freely?

[StJade]

Rims of the same size cannot be replaced freely. Consequences of replacing tires arbitrarily: Although tires may appear simple in structure, changing their size can affect many vehicle parameters, as the entire car relies on the rims for contact with the road. Increasing rim size: The vehicle's mileage will decrease because mileage is calculated based on the number of rotations the rim makes, which can affect maintenance cycle judgments. Relevant regulations on vehicle modifications: Altering the registered appearance and technical data of a motor vehicle is not permitted for modification registration, unless otherwise specified by national mandatory standards.

[SanAdrian]

Wheels of the same size cannot be swapped arbitrarily, because cars are not as simple as building blocks. I’ve driven several cars and encountered situations where people thought matching the size was enough, only to find the wheel offset didn’t align, causing the rim to get stuck against the brake caliper and making the steering wheel immovable. Besides size, the center bore diameter must also be checked—if it’s incorrect or the bolt pattern (PCD) doesn’t match, the tires may wear unevenly or even cause the car to pull to one side. Weight is another critical factor; lightweight wheels can save fuel, but excessively heavy ones will dull acceleration and increase fuel consumption. This also affects the lifespan of the suspension system, leading to premature bearing wear over time. Safety-wise, mismatched wheels can cause loss of control during sharp turns. Before swapping, it’s recommended to have a mechanic measure the ET value with precision tools to ensure everything fits perfectly.

[DiWeston]

I also thought that wheels of the same size could be swapped freely for a cooler look, but that idea is way too risky. I once tried saving money by directly installing a used wheel of the same size, only to find its center bore was slightly smaller. After installation, the steering wheel kept shaking while driving. If the bolt holes don’t align, it’s even worse—there’s a serious risk of the wheel loosening mid-drive. While aesthetics matter, wheel weight and material are also crucial. Aluminum wheels are lighter, making the car more agile, whereas heavier iron wheels make it sluggish and increase fuel consumption. Another issue is that many modern cars have tire pressure monitoring sensors installed in the wheels. If the new wheel lacks the proper mounting points for the sensor, the warning light will stay on endlessly, which is super annoying. Eventually, I wisely spent the money to have a professional test and match the wheels—much more hassle-free and safer.

[OGia]

Don't casually change wheels of the same size, safety comes first. Wheel matching isn't just about size; bolt pattern, offset, and center bore must all be checked. With decades of driving experience, I've seen cases where beginners ignored bolt circle differences, causing severe body sway during high-speed turns that nearly led to rollovers. Legally, vehicle modifications must comply with OEM standards for insurance to remain valid.