can you put 20 inch rims on a car

[VonAlana]

Yes, you can often put 20-inch rims on a car, but it is not a simple universal upgrade. The success depends entirely on your specific vehicle's specifications, including the wheel well clearance, suspension design, and factory wheel size. A proper fit requires matching the new wheel's bolt pattern, offset, and center bore to your car's hubs. Incorrect sizing can lead to the tires rubbing against the suspension or fenders, especially when turning or going over bumps.

Beyond physical fitment, the change significantly impacts driving dynamics. Larger, heavier rims can negatively affect ride quality, making it harsher over road imperfections. They may also increase unsprung weight (the weight of components not supported by the suspension), which can reduce acceleration, braking performance, and fuel efficiency. To maintain the overall rolling diameter—the total height of the wheel and tire combination—you must fit tires with a lower aspect ratio (the sidewall height). This is critical to keep your speedometer and odometer readings accurate.

Here’s a quick comparison of potential impacts:

Factor	Original 17-inch Setup	New 20-inch Setup	Key Consideration
Ride Comfort	More sidewall flex absorbs bumps.	Stiffer sidewalls transmit more road vibration.	Expect a noticeably firmer ride.
Handling	Slightly more body roll in corners.	Sharper turn-in and less sidewall flex.	Improved cornering at the cost of comfort.
Acceleration/Braking	Typically lighter wheels.	Often heavier, increasing unsprung weight.	May feel slightly slower off the line.
Risk of Damage	Taller sidewalls protect wheels from potholes.	Short sidewalls are more prone to bends and blowouts.	Requires careful driving on poor roads.
Cost	Standard tire prices.	Larger, low-profile tires are often more expensive.	Higher replacement cost for both tires and rims.

Before purchasing, the safest approach is to consult your vehicle's manufacturer specifications for maximum wheel size or use an online fitment guide. The best results often come from a "test fit" at a reputable tire shop, where they can mount a single wheel to check for clearance issues before you commit to the full set.

[DeEleanor]

It's possible, but you gotta get the numbers right. The bolt pattern has to match perfectly, and the offset can't be too extreme. If you just slap on any 20s, they'll probably rub against your fender or suspension when you turn. It'll also make your ride way stiffer—every little crack in the road will feel huge. Definitely talk to a shop that specializes in wheels; they can test-fit one to be sure it works before you spend all that money.

[OStella]

From an engineering standpoint, the primary concern is maintaining the correct overall rolling diameter. Swapping to a larger rim necessitates a lower-profile tire to keep the diameter nearly identical. If this is not done precisely, it will throw off your speedometer calibration and can interfere with anti-lock braking and stability control systems. Furthermore, the reduction in sidewall height decreases the tire's ability to absorb impacts, increasing stress on the wheel itself and the vehicle's suspension components. Proper fitment is a calculation, not a guess.

[FelixRose]

I did this on my SUV and love the more aggressive look. However, I immediately noticed the trade-off: the ride is definitely harsher. You feel every bump. I also have to be super cautious around potholes now to avoid bending a rim, which is an expensive repair. It handles a bit better on smooth highways, but for daily driving, you sacrifice a lot of comfort. Make sure you're okay with that before moving forward. It's a style choice with real-world consequences.