Q: What are wheel spacers? Do I need them?
Wheel spacers are metal rings that are installed between a vehicle’s wheel and the wheel hub (or the mounting surface of the wheel). Their primary function is to increase the distance (or offset) between the wheel and the vehicle’s suspension or fender. Wheel spacers are typically used to achieve a desired stance, improve wheel clearance, or adjust the offset of the wheel for better fitment.
Key Functions of Wheel Spacers:
- Improve Wheel Fitment:
- Wheel spacers allow a vehicle to run wider or more aggressive wheels that would not otherwise fit without rubbing against the suspension components, fenders, or brakes. By pushing the wheels outward, spacers help achieve the desired stance and prevent interference with the vehicle’s body.
- Enhance Aesthetic Appearance:
- Many car enthusiasts use wheel spacers to create a more visually appealing stance. Spacers can give the vehicle a wider stance, making it look more aggressive or balanced, which is especially common in performance, off-road, or custom vehicles.
- Increase Track Width:
- Wheel spacers increase the track width (the distance between the left and right wheels). A wider track improves vehicle stability, handling, and cornering ability, especially at high speeds or during aggressive driving. This is a common modification for sports cars or vehicles that participate in racing.
- Correct Wheel Offset:
- If a vehicle’s wheels are too tucked in or too far out (due to factory design or aftermarket modifications), wheel spacers can be used to adjust the wheel offset. They help to position the wheels more centrally within the wheel wells or achieve a more desirable offset.
- Prevent Rubbing:
- In some cases, after lowering a car or adding a suspension modification, the tires might rub against the inner fenders or suspension components. Using a wheel spacer can provide extra clearance to prevent this rubbing and protect the tires and suspension parts.
related FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Find answers to common questions about Unplugged Performance products, services, and policies.
I’m thinking of upgrading my wheels / tires in addition to springs, is there anything I should know?
How much range loss should I expect from wider wheels and tires on an EV, and how do I minimize it?
What tire size should I pair with a specific wheel size?
Should I go for larger diameter wheels?
Do aftermarket wheels improve performance?
Can I use spacers instead of different wheels?
Do I need hub-centric rings?
What do terms like “bolt pattern,” “offset,” and “backspacing” mean?
Will your Unplugged Performance wheels fit my vehicle?
Square vs staggered: which is better for handling and tire wear?
What is the ideal tire size for a square setup on Model 3?
Do you sell touch up paint?
Will UP Forged Wheels fit over Tesla Performance Brakes?
What is the lug nut torque specification for a Tesla (Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck)?
Why does my Tesla show a TPMS fault when parked near other wheels?
What are the advantages of titanium lug nuts for my Tesla?
Can UP Forged Cybertruck Wheels like the UP-03 Beadlock, CYBRHEX, or CYBRSPOKE fit other trucks?
Will UP Forged Wheels like the UP-03, UP-05, or UP-RW Road Warrior fit cars other than Teslas?
Can you remove the Aero Disc Covers from the UP Forged UP-RW Road Warrior Wheels?
What kind of construction do Unplugged Performance wheels have?
I’m thinking of upgrading my wheels / tires in addition to springs, is there anything I should know?
What is a forged wheel? Are they better than OEM Telsa Wheels?
Do I need conical or ball seat lug nuts?
Will Unplugged Performance Aluminum or Titanium Lug Nuts fit my OEM Wheels?
Will my OEM lug nuts fit UP Forged Wheels?
What is a Beadlock?
What is Bead Knurling?
Can I reuse my OEM TPMS?
What is TPMS?
Do I need to replace my tires when upgrading wheels?
What is the benefit of upgrading to wider wheels?
What is the difference between staggered and square wheel setups?
Do UP Forged Wheels come with a warranty?
What is the proper way to clean aftermarket wheels?
Do I need to get an alignment after installing aftermarket wheels?
Can UP Forged wheels affect my car’s performance?
What is the meaning wheel backspace?
What is the meaning of wheel offset?
How do I know what size wheel will fit my car?
INSTALLATION guide
For the do it yourselfer or trained mechanic, our in-depth installation guides provide step by step detailed instructions on fitting your Tesla with Unplugged Performance Parts.
more FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS you might find interesting
Find answers to common questions about Unplugged Performance products, services, and policies.
Aerodynamics
What’s the most cost-effective PPF coverage for an EV that racks up highway miles?
Does adding aero hurt range, and how do you choose ‘high-efficiency’ aero parts?
How do you avoid aero-induced understeer/oversteer when adding a wing or aggressive front aero?
What aero parts are worth it for stability: front lip, splitter, side skirts, diffuser, or wing?
Custom Orders & Pre-Orders
General questions
Installation questions
Ordering & Payment
Other / Miscellaneous
WARRANTY QUESTIONS
Did you know that 90% of our customers express concerns about their vehicle warranty.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
RATED 4.96
(317 REVIEWS)
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With real reviews from real customers, shop UP products for your Tesla Model S, 3, X, Y and Cybertruck with confidence. Leave reviews and earn up to 2000 UP Rewards points each, redeemable towards exclusive UP Products.
Was hesitant to purchase but after seeing my before/after alignment report I am so glad I did. For everything Tesla does well, alignment from the factory needs work. UP perfectly aligned my M3. Highly recommend this product if you are installing the dual rate lowering springs. Call and ask for Kirk...
Jordan C.
June 09, 2023
I purchased the Up03 wheel setup for my Model X Plaid in 20x10.5 square. Coming from the stock 22-inch wheels, there was a massive improvement in weight savings, and the car feels more responsive with superior ride quality. I’ve also noticed a significant increase in range. My sales rep, Kirk, was...
Sanju G.
November 20, 2024
I purchased these as set with my coil overs and these are definite must to install. These bushing add great handling to your steering. Steering is more accurate and responds well to the drivers needs. Highly recommend!
jesus.ruiz.2389
February 02, 2023
Have these on my 2020 Model 3 for about a year now, running 19x9.5 +35 for the front and rears. Wow, feels like I'm driving a brand new performance car compared to my old stock 18 inch aero wheels. Cruising at high speeds on the freeway makes me feel 100% more confident. With the amount of torque...
Mason
October 31, 2025
In looking for rims for a car the first thing I think of is uniqueness. That’s what drew me to this stylish set. I feel like im the only one in LA with a ste let alone 22’s on a Y and they fit and ride flawlessly. Definitely would suggest getting a pair if you want to stand out. I see they got...
Montage Ø.
November 03, 2025
Blake, one of the Unplug Performance representatives called me at just the right time about sway bars planned what day I will be able to go out early that way I still have time to go home and if I needed anything else done to my car they were able to help Including a alignment that was past due for...
isaahanna79
October 21, 2022
This is a necessary purchase if you want to properly raise or lower your vehicle.
Super high quality materials, easy to install and adjust.
josephschneider77
November 04, 2022
Model S / Model S Plaid (2021+) UP x PFC Large Sweep Brake Rotor and Pad Set (For OEM Caliper)
RATED 5.0
I installed these with the race pads.. The car is significantly better at stopping, the pedal feel is fantastic. One of the biggest addtional things I noticed was the decreased weight.. The wheels done thud as hard over bumps, and comfort setting now feels like actual comfort.. The wheels also...
Robert M.
October 10, 2022
This brace really tightens up the car. It also got rid of some of the rattles I had coming from the rear seat. Little tough to get in and out, but really an awesome upgrade
Taylor
February 26, 2026
Tesla Model 3 Ascension Side Skirt Set
RATED 5.0
The Side Skirt Set really improved the look and feel of the TM3. It ties in the front fascia unit and the rear spoiler looks fantastic as well. It makes for a lower look and a sleek ride. I'm very impressed at the pictures and I have been given compliments on its finish. The paint matched the...
smgdcw
April 17, 2023
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Unplugged Performance is the world leader in premium performance upgrades for Tesla vehicles. With our USA-made line of stylish and high-performance parts, our sole focus is on holistic development and improvement of all Tesla cars.
Unplugged Performance was founded and incubated by the team behind the world-renowned automotive customizer Bulletproof Automotive. Unplugged Performance is the world's leading company focused on the customization and sports performance of Tesla Motors vehicles.
All of our parts are researched and engineered on our own development vehicles with the intention of improving every aspect of the driving and ownership experience. Unplugged produces an exclusive range of premium upgrades to give a new sporty performance identity to Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3, Model Y, and the Cybertruck.
Improving on perfection is no easy task, and to do so Unplugged products are professionally designed, prototyped, and manufactured in-house in Hawthorne, CA, and in collaboration with the best motorsports suppliers. The supercar performance of Tesla vehicles meets supercar-grade enhancements with Unplugged Performance.
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THE UNPLUGGED PERFORMANCE® MARK AND LOGO ARE TRADEMARKS OF UNPLUGGED PERFORMANCE INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PLEASE REVIEW THE TERMS & CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY BEFORE USING OUR WEBSITE.