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I've done some searching, but the conversation always seems to get convoluted pretty quickly so I was hoping someone could help advise on wheel spacers.
I have a C450 with the stock 18" wheels pictured below. I'm interested in widening the stance, but have never looked into spacers before so am not sure what I'm looking for. I understand that different spacer sizes work with different applications. My car is not lowered and has the wheels below.
I was also wondering about compromising handling or creating vibrations or any safety risks. Any help with those questions and/or suggestions for sizes and brands would be much appreciated.
Spacers are pretty straightforward. First, measure the gap you currently have between the top edge of your wheel and the inner lip of the fender. Convert that measurement to mm...that's the thickest spacer you can run.
Whatever the thickness, buy new lug bolts equal to OEM length plus the extra thickness.
I've seen some discussion regarding if using spacers creates extra pressure on some parts and can cause damage and/or be a safety concern.
Is that not much of a concern here since it looks like the sizes I've seen W205 people using are pretty thin (6-12ish mm). And also handling effects not really a concern because thinner spacers?
You're altering the suspension geometry to an extent. Theoretically it could lead to premature bearing and bushing wear. From a practical standpoint I've never had a problem with them, even the thick 20mm ones.
Handling will firm up a little because spreading out the wheels causes less body roll, but it's negligible. They can induce vibrations. Generally it's preferable to get wheels with a lower offset rather than reducing offset with spacers.
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