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Wheel Offsets
The offset of a wheel is what locates the tire and wheel assembly in relation to the suspension. More specifically, it is the measured distance between the hub mounting surface and the center line of the rim. Below is an explanation of the various types of offsets which are pictured in the above graphic.
Positive Offset
A positive offset occurs when the hub mounting surface is on the street side (the side you see) of the center line of the rim. Most factory rims will have this type of offset.
Zero Offset
When the hub mounting surface is centered within the rim, it is known as a zero offset.
Negative Offset
If the hub mounting surface is on the brake side of the center line of the rim, it is considered a negative offset or “deep dish”.
Note that extensive negative offset can potentially cause increased steering wheel kick-back and place additional stresses on the vehicle's entire suspension.
Rim Width
The width between the flanges of the wheel (the part the bead of the tire touches).
Section Width
The linear distance between the outside of the sidewalls of an inflated tire without any load on it (this does not include any sidewall decorations).
Section Height
This is also known as the Aspect Ratio. This is figured on a percentage of the section width. A tire size of 205/60R15 would have a section width of 205 millimeters and a section height of 60 percent of 205 millimeters.
Wheel Offsets

The offset of a wheel is what locates the tire and wheel assembly in relation to the suspension. More specifically, it is the measured distance between the hub mounting surface and the center line of the rim. Below is an explanation of the various types of offsets which are pictured in the above graphic.
Positive Offset
A positive offset occurs when the hub mounting surface is on the street side (the side you see) of the center line of the rim. Most factory rims will have this type of offset.
Zero Offset
When the hub mounting surface is centered within the rim, it is known as a zero offset.
Negative Offset
If the hub mounting surface is on the brake side of the center line of the rim, it is considered a negative offset or “deep dish”.


The width between the flanges of the wheel (the part the bead of the tire touches).
Section Width
The linear distance between the outside of the sidewalls of an inflated tire without any load on it (this does not include any sidewall decorations).
Section Height
This is also known as the Aspect Ratio. This is figured on a percentage of the section width. A tire size of 205/60R15 would have a section width of 205 millimeters and a section height of 60 percent of 205 millimeters.