What are the effects of too small wheel hub ET value?
3 Answers
The effects of too small wheel hub ET value are: 1. Changing the wheel offset will alter the vehicle's track width; 2. Changing the offset will affect the load on the bearings; 3. It will have an impact on braking. The wheel hub ET value is located on the back of the wheel hub, also known as the ET offset value, which is the offset value, i.e., the deviation between the mounting surface of the wheel hub and the centerline of the wheel rim, measured in mm. The maintenance methods for wheel hubs are: 1. When the vehicle is in a humid area, the wheel hubs should be cleaned frequently to prevent salt corrosion on the aluminum surface; 2. If necessary, after cleaning, the wheel hubs can be waxed to maintain their luster; 3. When the wheel hub temperature is high, it should be allowed to cool naturally before cleaning. Do not use cold water to clean, as it may damage the aluminum wheel hub, cause brake disc deformation affecting braking performance, and using detergent to clean the wheel hub may cause chemical reactions on the surface, resulting in loss of luster.
The wheel ET value is too small, simply put, the wheels protrude too much outward, making them prone to scraping against the wheel arches or fenders while driving, especially when taking turns or on bumpy roads. Scraping is not a minor issue; over time, it can deform the body, affecting the overall structure, and also lead to poor heat dissipation of the brake discs, causing overheating and failure. I've encountered a similar situation where, after modification, the ET value was too small, resulting in a tire blowout on the highway, posing a high safety risk. It's advisable not to blindly pursue a cool appearance but to prioritize ensuring sufficient space between the wheels and the body, and to regularly check the gaps. If modifications have been made carelessly, it's best to quickly seek a professional shop to adjust back to the normal value to avoid accidents. Safety first—even when modifying cars, it's important to be steady and cautious.
When modifying wheels, an excessively small ET value directly impacts handling. I've experienced it myself—the wheels protruding outward alter the suspension geometry, making the steering feel sluggish and unresponsive. During high-speed cornering, the car becomes unstable and sways, feeling like it's on the verge of losing control. This also exacerbates uneven tire wear, increases road noise, and reduces ride comfort. Driving in the city for extended periods can further raise fuel consumption due to the added resistance. After modification, I tested it myself—even a few millimeters of deviation in the ET value noticeably worsened handling. It's advisable to first calculate the factory specifications, use professional tools for measurement, and make minor adjustments that don't affect daily driving. Significant offsets should be handled with caution to maintain safe handling.
