Is it necessary to upgrade from 17-inch to 18-inch wheels?
2 Answers
Modifying vehicle wheels to a larger size can affect the stability of the vehicle, so it is not necessary to upgrade from 17-inch to 18-inch wheels. Moreover, altering the wheel size of a vehicle is illegal. After modifying the wheels, it is mandatory to change to tires of the same type; otherwise, the vehicle will not be able to complete registration within the stipulated time. Points to note when changing wheels: You need to complete the registration procedures. Modifying the wheel size of a vehicle involves altering the vehicle's appearance data. Within ten days after the modification, you must bring the vehicle's license and registration certificate to the local vehicle management office to complete the registration procedures. Otherwise, it will be considered an illegal modification. If you switch to 18-inch wheels, it may cause the speedometer to display inaccurately because the vehicle's design and parameters have already been calibrated. Modifying the style and color of vehicle wheels is legal. Changing the style and color of the wheels will not affect the use of the original tires. You can safely modify and use them, and the vehicle can be driven on the road without any impact on the annual inspection.
I don't think upgrading from 17-inch to 18-inch wheels is absolutely necessary, it mainly depends on your needs. For daily driving, 17-inch wheels generally offer more comfort with less bumpiness, especially on city roads; while 18-inch wheels look cooler, provide better stability and more agile cornering. However, there could be more downsides after the upgrade: tires are more expensive, fuel consumption may increase due to larger contact area; suspension bears more burden and may wear out prematurely with long-term use. If you don't drive fast or go mountain racing, just for commuting, I suggest not to upgrade, saving both money and hassle. If you do decide to upgrade, make sure the new wheels match the original bolt pattern and center bore, otherwise misalignment or rapid wear after installation could be troublesome. In conclusion, there's no compelling reason to upgrade unless you truly pursue better appearance or performance enhancement.
