jeep offset

Jeep offset is an important factor to consider when upgrading your Jeep’s wheels and tires. It refers to the distance between the wheel’s centerline and the mounting surface. Understanding this measurement is crucial to ensure your new wheels and tires will fit properly on your Jeep.

What is Jeep Offset?

Jeep offset is measured in millimeters and is the distance between the wheel’s centerline and the mounting surface. It can be positive, negative, or zero. Positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, while negative offset means it’s closer to the inside.

Jeep Offset DiagramSource: bing.com

Zero offset means the mounting surface is exactly in the centerline of the wheel. Jeep wheels typically have a positive offset, which helps keep the tires under the fender and prevent rubbing on turns or bumps.

How Does Jeep Offset Affect Your Jeep?

Jeep offset affects the way your Jeep handles, especially when you upgrade to larger tires. The offset determines how far the wheel sticks out from the Jeep’s fender, which affects the turning radius and clearance.

If the offset is too low, the wheel will stick out too far and may cause rubbing on the fender, especially when turning or going over bumps. On the other hand, if the offset is too high, the wheel will be too far inside the fender, which can affect stability and handling.

How to Choose the Right Jeep Offset

Choosing the right Jeep offset depends on several factors, including the size of your tires, the lift kit you have installed, and your driving style. The general rule of thumb is to choose an offset that keeps the tire under the fender, with enough clearance to prevent rubbing.

If you’re upgrading to larger tires, you may need to adjust the offset to ensure proper clearance. A good way to determine the right offset for your Jeep is to consult with a professional or use an online offset calculator.

Jeep Offset and Wheel Spacers

If you want to change the offset of your Jeep’s wheels, you can use wheel spacers. Wheel spacers are metal plates that attach to your Jeep’s hub and move the wheel outwards, effectively changing the offset. They come in different thicknesses, and you can choose the one that suits your needs.

However, using wheel spacers can affect your Jeep’s handling and stability, especially when driving at high speeds or off-road. It’s important to choose high-quality wheel spacers and install them correctly to minimize any negative effects.

Jeep Offset and Backspacing

Backspacing is another measurement that affects your Jeep’s wheels and tires. It refers to the distance from the mounting surface to the back edge of the wheel. Backspacing and offset are closely related, but they’re not the same thing.

While offset measures the distance between the wheel’s centerline and the mounting surface, backspacing measures the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and the back edge of the wheel. You can calculate the backspacing by subtracting the offset from the width of the wheel.

Wrapping Up

Jeep offset is an important factor to consider when upgrading your Jeep’s wheels and tires. It affects the way your Jeep handles, and choosing the right offset can improve stability, clearance, and overall performance. Whether you’re using wheel spacers or upgrading to larger tires, make sure to consult with a professional and choose high-quality products to ensure the best results.