What are the effects of increasing the wheel size by one inch on a car?
3 Answers
Increasing the wheel size by one inch can have the following effects on a car: 1. Abnormal tire wear; 2. Brake noise and vibration; 3. Poor braking performance; 4. Increased rolling resistance of the tires, leading to higher fuel consumption. The wheel hub is the cylindrical metal component that supports the tire from the inside and is mounted on the axle. It is also known as the rim, steel rim, wheel, or wheel disc. Depending on the characteristics and requirements of different vehicle models, the surface treatment process of the wheel hub may vary, generally categorized into painting and plating. For ordinary vehicle models, the appearance of the wheel hub is less of a consideration, with good heat dissipation being a basic requirement. The process typically involves painting, which includes spraying followed by baking, resulting in vibrant colors and long-lasting durability.
After upgrading to 19-inch wheels, the appearance has indeed improved significantly, often turning heads when parked on the roadside. However, the car feels 'sluggish' when driving, with slower engine power output, especially noticeable during acceleration from a standstill—since the wheels are heavier, the engine has to work harder. Fuel consumption has also increased, from 8L/100km in the city to over 9L now, which hurts the wallet a bit. Handling has improved in certain road conditions, such as better stability when cornering on dry surfaces, with slightly better tire grip. But on bumpy roads, the ride feels harsher, and the thinner tires make small potholes produce loud 'thuds,' while also worrying about faster tire wear. When modifying, ensure the new wheels match the original car design; otherwise, it may affect dynamic balance or speedometer accuracy. If modification is a must, choosing lightweight wheels can mitigate some of these effects. Overall, it's all about the looks and handling feel, but performance takes a hit.
As a daily commuter who drives every day, I'm concerned about the safety impact of upgrading to larger wheels. The thinner sidewalls increase braking distance, with a noticeable half-second delay in braking response on wet roads, which is quite dangerous. There's also a change in handling stability - where the steering used to feel rock-solid, now it occasionally feels floaty during turns, requiring adjustment to the new feel. Tire wear accelerates, with increased risks of sidewall bulges or blowouts that can lead to loss of control. Regular checks of tire pressure and bolts are essential - don't cut corners here. After installation, professional wheel balancing and ABS system verification are recommended. If the original suspension wasn't robust, oversized wheels will add stress and cause premature failure. Overall, safety should always outweigh aesthetics - beginners especially should avoid impulsive modifications and carefully evaluate compatibility.
