FAQ – Common questions about rims
Here we have gathered the most common questions about rims, from how to choose the right size to the difference between steel and alloy. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, you are welcome to contact us at info@statusfalgar.se or +46 852705264.
How do you choose the right rims for your car?
The simplest way is to enter your registration number on our site, which automatically filters out only compatible rims for your particular car. Three things have to match: the bolt pattern, the ET value and the rim dimension. The bolt pattern has to match the car's hub, the ET value decides how the rim sits in relation to the arch, and the dimension has to stay close to the original for the speedometer and the ABS system to work correctly.
What is the difference between steel wheels and alloy wheels?
Steel wheels are heavier, rugged and good value – the obvious choice for winter use or vehicles with high load requirements. Alloy wheels are lighter and improve handling, braking performance and fuel consumption, but cost more. Most car owners choose alloy wheels for summer for better performance and appearance, and steel wheels for winter for durability and economy.
What is the ET value on a rim and what does it mean?
ET stands for the German word Einpresstiefe and states how far the rim's mounting face is offset from the rim's centre line, measured in millimetres. A high positive ET means the rim sits further inboard towards the vehicle, while a low or negative ET means the rim protrudes further. The wrong ET can cause rubbing against the arch or the suspension. On our site, rims with the right ET for your car are filtered out automatically when you enter your registration number.
What is a bolt pattern and how do I know which one fits my car?
The bolt pattern states the number of bolts and the spacing between them; 5x112, for example, means five bolts on a 112 mm diameter. Every car has a specific bolt pattern and the rim has to match it exactly to be fitted. Enter your registration number on our site and only rims with the right bolt pattern for your particular car are shown.
Can I choose a different rim size from the original?
Yes, but it means keeping the overall wheel circumference roughly the same as the original. If you choose a larger rim you have to compensate with a lower tyre profile. Otherwise the speedometer, and at worst the ABS and ESP systems, are affected. As a rule of thumb you usually need to reduce the tyre's aspect ratio by around 5–10 steps for every inch you increase the rim size, but exactly how much depends on the width of the tyre.
What is the hub diameter and why does it matter?
The hub diameter is the diameter of the hole in the centre of the rim. It has to match the car's hub for the rim to sit correctly centred. If the rim's hub diameter is larger than the car's hub you need centring rings for the rim to sit right; otherwise vibration and uneven wear can occur. Enter your registration number on our site and only rims with the right hub diameter for your car are shown.
Are steel wheels good as winter wheels?
Yes, steel wheels are the obvious choice for winter use. They take salt, cold and dirt without a second thought, and if they are damaged they are simple and cheap to replace. Mounting your winter tyres on a dedicated set of steel wheels saves time at the seasonal change and extends the life of your summer tyres.
Which rims fit a pickup?
Pickup rims have to take heavy loads and varying road conditions. The most common bolt patterns on pickups are 6x139.7 on American models such as the Dodge Ram, Silverado and Ram 1500, and the Ford Ranger. The Nissan Navara runs 6x114.3 and the Volkswagen Amarok has different bolt patterns depending on the generation. Enter your registration number on our site and the right rims are filtered out automatically for your particular pickup.
Which rims fit a van?
Vans place high demands on a rim's load capacity. Never choose a rim with a lower load capacity than the original; it affects safety directly. Common bolt patterns on vans are 5x120 on the VW Transporter, 6x130 on the Mercedes Sprinter, 5x160 on the Ford Transit Custom and 5x118 on the Fiat Ducato. Enter your registration number and the right rims are filtered out automatically.
Can I buy rims with tyres as a complete package?
Yes. At Statusfälgar it is simple: choose your rim, add it to the basket and we show suitable tyres automatically. You get a complete, balanced wheel package delivered straight to your door, ready to fit. Simple, secure and fast.
What are Dirt A.T Wheels and Blackbear?
Dirt A.T Wheels and Blackbear are Statusfälgar's own brands. Dirt A.T Wheels focuses on rims for pickups and off-road vehicles, while Blackbear is our own tyre range. Both are built with high quality and long durability in mind – at a price that means you do not have to compromise.