Will a decrease of 10 in the wheel ET value affect the vehicle?
3 Answers
The decrease of 10 in the wheel ET value will definitely have an impact on the vehicle. A smaller ET value increases the kingpin offset of the tire, thereby amplifying the degree of braking deviation and resulting in some loss of power. Here is more information about the ET value: 1. The ET value is the Off-set value, which refers to the offset between the mounting surface of the wheel hub and the centerline of the rim, measured in millimeters, with three types: positive, zero, and negative. 2. Off-set is defined as the distance between the mounting surface of the rim and the center of the rim. A positive offset means the mounting surface is towards the outer side, while a negative offset means it is towards the inner side of the rim. 3. When the Offset value is 0, the contact surface between the wheel and the hub is at the centerline of the wheel; when the Offset is positive, the contact surface leans more towards the outer side.
As a car modification enthusiast, I've personally changed many wheel rims. Reducing the ET value by 10 indeed makes the wheels protrude more, giving a sportier and more eye-catching look, and my friends always compliment how cool it looks when I drive out. But don't just focus on showing off—this affects the vehicle's handling stability. For example, the steering wheel feels heavier when turning, tires are more likely to rub against the wheel arches or body, and prolonged driving increases wear on suspension bearings. Once on the highway, I had to make an emergency stop because the ET was set too low, causing tire damage, and the repair cost me several hundred dollars. It's advisable to measure the clearance before modification and install wheel arch spacers if necessary for cushioning. Regular checks on tires and the chassis are essential—ensuring safety and durability is what truly matters.
Having worked in car maintenance for over a decade, I've handled numerous cases of reduced wheel hub ET. Decreasing the ET value by 10mm means the wheel hub shifts outward, widening the track width, which theoretically enhances cornering grip. However, there are several negative impacts, such as increased load on the steering mechanism and accelerated bearing wear. If the wheel width doesn't match, the tires may frequently rub against the inner fender liners, leading to noise and safety issues. I've encountered customers complaining about increased steering wheel vibration, which is essentially caused by imbalance from ET modifications. I recommend that car owners measure their vehicle's original data before making any changes to avoid excessive modifications. Using a multimeter to check current changes or consulting a professional shop for dynamic balance testing can prevent potential hazards. Don't sacrifice reliability for aesthetics.
