What Is Wheel Offset?

Wheel offset is the distance between the wheel’s centreline and the mounting surface that attaches to the hub.

• A negative offset pushes the wheel outward, creating a wider stance and a deeper dish
• A positive offset pulls the wheel inward, pulling it further inside the wheel arch

Getting the correct offset is essential for maintaining proper handling, steering, and clearance. The wrong offset can cause suspension clearance issues, tyre rubbing, and reduced overall performance.

Whether you’re upgrading your 4×4 or improving off-road capability, understanding offset will help you choose the right fitment with confidence.

Wheel offset is usually shown as ET followed by a number, such as ET35.

• ET stands for Einpresstiefe (German for “insertion depth”)
• The number indicates the offset in millimetres

Examples:

• ET35 = wheel sits 35 mm inward (positive offset)
• ET-20 = wheel sits further outward (negative offset)

Understanding ET markings helps you compare wheels and ensure correct fitment.

Offset is measured from the wheel’s centreline to the mounting surface:

•  Zero offset (ET0) → hub sits in the centre
• Positive offset → wheel sits further in
• Negative offset → wheel sits further out

Example:
 A wheel with ET-50 will sit significantly further out than a standard wheel, creating a wider stance.

Negative Offset (ET-)

• Pushes wheels outwards
• Creates a wider, more aggressive stance
• Improves inner clearance

Zero Offset (ET0)

• The wheel sits centrally
• Provides balanced clearance on both sides

Positive Offset (ET+)

• Pulls wheels inwards
• Typical of factory setups
• Maintains stability and standard fitment

Choosing the correct offset affects:

• Handling and steering response
• Suspension and brake clearance
• Tyre wear
• Vehicle stance and appearance

An incorrect offset can cause rubbing, instability, or premature wear.

The ideal offset depends on how you use your vehicle:

• Daily driving → stay close to the factory specifications
• Off-road use → a slightly negative offset improves stance and clearance
• Performance setups → a balanced offset improves stability

Always check:

• Suspension clearance
• Brake caliper clearance
• Wheel arch fitment

If unsure, choose wheels designed specifically for your vehicle.

Wheel spacers effectively reduce offset by moving the wheel outward.
Example:

• Adding a 20mm spacer reduces the offset by 20mm

Spacers can improve stance and clearance, but must be fitted correctly to ensure safety.

Explore wheel spacers >

If you’re upgrading your wheels, offset is only one factor. You’ll also need to consider tyre type and intended use.

For example:

All-terrain tyres offer balanced on- and off-road performance
Mud-terrain tyres provide maximum grip in challenging conditions

Choosing the right combination of wheels and tyres ensures the best performance on and off the road.

Wheel offset determines how far your wheels sit in or out of the wheel arches. Although the measurements are shown as ET values, the easiest way to understand offset is to see how it changes the wheel’s position.

Below, we break down the three types of offset — negative, zero, and positive — to show how each affects stance, clearance, and overall fitment.

Use these examples to quickly understand how different offsets will look and perform on your vehicle.

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Quick Comparison

• Negative offset → pushes the wheels outwards
• Zero offset → centres the wheel
• Positive offset → pulls the wheels inwards

How offset affects your setup

Choosing the right offset affects:

• Handling and stability
• Suspension clearance
• Overall vehicle stance

Choosing the correct offset ensures the right balance of performance, handling, and appearance. Browse our range of alloy and steel wheels by vehicle or by size to find the right fit, with expert advice available.

All products are available with UK-wide delivery or professional fitting.

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