Close-up of a multi-spoke aftermarket wheel fitted to a lowered car

Wheel Offset Explained: Positive, Negative, and Zero Offset

Choosing wheels involves more than diameter and design. Offset determines where a wheel sits in relation to the hub, affecting both its appearance and clearance. Here is what to know before shopping for wheels in Bossier City or Shreveport.

What is wheel offset?

Offset is the distance, measured in millimeters, between the wheel's centerline and its hub mounting surface. A marking such as ET20 means positive 20 mm offset.

  • Positive offset: the mounting surface is toward the outside face of the wheel. Compared with the same-width wheel at a lower offset, the wheel sits farther inward.
  • Zero offset: the mounting surface lines up with the wheel's centerline.
  • Negative offset: the mounting surface is toward the inside of the wheel, moving the wheel outward compared with the same-width wheel at a higher offset.

A simple fitment example

For two wheels with the same width, changing from +20 mm to 0 mm moves the wheel outward by 20 mm. Changing wheel width too changes the inner and outer positions, so offset alone does not tell the whole story.

Offset versus backspacing

Backspacing measures from the hub mounting surface to the wheel's inner edge, usually in inches. Offset measures from the centerline. Two wheels can have the same offset but different backspacing if their widths differ.

Does more negative offset mean better fitment?

No. A wider stance may suit the look you want, but moving a wheel outward can increase fender or bumper contact during steering and suspension travel. Moving it inward can reduce clearance to suspension parts. Large changes can also affect steering feel and wheel-bearing loads.

Offset does not guarantee a deep lip or brake clearance. Wheel design, width, tire dimensions, and the vehicle all matter.

Check the complete setup

  • Correct bolt pattern, center bore, wheel load rating, and lug hardware.
  • Brake clearance and approved wheel width for the tire.
  • Clearance at full steering lock and through suspension travel.
  • Lift or leveling kit specifications and any required modifications.

Barksdale Customs can help compare wheel and tire combinations for your vehicle and the stance you want. Browse wheels or contact us with your year, make, model, and current suspension setup.

Further reading: Method Race Wheels: What Is Offset?

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Get help with your vehicle

Custom wheel selection and installation at Barksdale Customs in Bossier City. Review the service details and contact our shop with your vehicle information.

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