What are wheel spacers for?

With these parts the width of the wheel axle is increased and the car is given a sportier look. We tell you the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.


Any fan of the world of motor and vehicle tuning will be able to answer the question of what wheel separators are for, since they are common elements in professional cars, but also in those modified for common use. But in this article we delve a little more about its uses and functions, the types of wheel spacers that you can find or the safety of such a change.


What are wheel separators and what are they for?

The basic function of wheel spacers is to increase the width of the axle; It is an element of habitual use in racing cars, but that has reached private cars by the hand of tuning. However, they are elements that, beyond their aesthetic value, influence the safety and stability of the vehicle, so it is essential to know what the wheel spacers are for, assess their advantages and disadvantages and take care of their installation, if you have decided to put wheel spacers in your car.


Wheel spacers are aluminum discs that are inserted or screwed to the wheel hub.

The main effect of the spacers is that they reduce the screwing depth of the tire, so that the wheelbase increases and the position of the tire moves a little further to the outside of the wheel housing, closer to the fender .

Visually, although the separator is not visible from the outside of the vehicle, the displacement of the tire is perceived. In general, they give the car a sportier look and closer to the aesthetics of racing cars.

From the mechanical point of view, the greater width in the axle that is achieved with the wheel spacers, means a greater grip in demanding driving situations.

Race car dividers

In racing cars, wheel spacers are a common element to improve the adhesion of tires to the terrain; However, in a non-professional use, the virtues of this element and its suitability to your vehicle and the type of use and driving you carry out must be carefully assessed. In addition, not all wheel spacers are legal to drive on public roads:


There are three types of wheel spacers on the market: single spacers, double centering and double fixing spacers, and double centering spacers. Only the last ones - double centering wheel separators - can be homologated in a vehicle intended for circulation on public roads.

The balance in the assembly and installation of these elements is crucial, any small slip will directly affect the behavior of the vehicle.

The assembly and installation of the separators must be carried out by professionals, it is also important to choose official and approved separators. It is necessary that in the workshop where they are placed, they give you a certificate that is essential to be able to homologate and legalize this modifying element of your vehicle in any ITV center.

Not all cars can use wheel spacers, it is very important that you make sure that your vehicle can carry them safely and that you choose legal spacers, in addition to an authorized installation center.


The advantages and effectiveness of the wheel spacers - greater grip - do not occur in normal driving conditions, can only be seen on very winding routes and in extreme driving conditions, so they are not a recommended or necessary element for everyday use .


Among the main disadvantages of the use of wheel spacers, it is necessary to highlight the greater wear of the wheels, in addition to a non-homogeneous, but partial way, which can be quite dangerous.


To decide to mount wheel spacers in your vehicle, it is important that you inform yourself and go beyond knowing what the wheel spacers are for; experts remember that they are elements that, although they can be aesthetically very attractive, can also jeopardize the safety of your car, so a professional assessment of the case is essential before making a final decision on installing wheel spacers in your car .


Safety is always the priority, for this reason and for the protection of your vehicle and all its occupants, work MAPFRE daily to offer you the most complete and current MAPFRE Car Insurance policies, where all the details are contemplated, being fully compatible With any situation. Always consult your MAPFRE advisor for any changes in your car or new items.

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Weird first post, but informative. Welcome to TW.

 

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Welcome! Trying to advertise your website? Looks informative.