Davis Bellew If you’re a car enthusiast and looking to upgrade the wheels on your VW car, you may be wondering if you can use Subaru wheels instead. While it may seem like a simple swap, there are some technical details that you need to be aware of before diving into the process. In this article, we’ll explore the compatibility of Subaru wheels on VW cars, the modifications you need to make for them to fit properly, and the benefits and drawbacks of doing so.
Compatibility of Subaru Wheels on VW Cars
The answer to whether or not Subaru wheels are compatible with VW cars is yes and no. It depends on the specific model of VW car and the year of the Subaru whose wheels you want to use. The lug pattern, offset, and center bore size of the wheels on both cars must match in order for them to fit properly.
For example, many Subaru models have a 5×100 lug pattern, whereas most VW cars have a 5×112 lug pattern. However, some VW models such as the Golf/Jetta and Beetle have a 5×100 bolt pattern, making them compatible with the same size Subaru wheels. It’s important to measure your specific car and check the specifications of the Subaru wheels you want to use to ensure compatibility.
Modifications Needed for Subaru Wheels on VW Cars
If you’ve confirmed that the Subaru wheels you want to use are compatible with your VW car, there are a few modifications you’ll need to make to ensure a proper fit. One option is to purchase hub-centric rings, which fill the gap between the larger center bore of the Subaru wheels and the smaller hub bore of the VW car. This ensures that the wheels are properly centered and prevents any vibrations or wobbling.
In some cases, you may also need to roll or pull the fenders of your VW car to prevent rubbing or scraping of the Subaru wheels. This is especially true if you’re using larger size Subaru wheels than what your VW car originally came with.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Subaru Wheels on VW Cars
One of the main benefits of using Subaru wheels on a VW car is the improved performance and handling. Many Subaru wheels are designed with a lightweight and durable construction, making them ideal for racing and high-performance driving. They also come in a variety of sizes and styles, allowing you to customize the look of your VW car.
However, there are some drawbacks to using Subaru wheels on your VW car. One of the biggest concerns is the impact it can have on the speedometer and odometer readings. Since Subaru wheels are often a different size than VW wheels, it can throw off the accuracy of these gauges. Additionally, using non-factory wheels can affect the resale value of your car.
Tips for Buying and Installing Subaru Wheels on VW Cars
If you’ve decided to use Subaru wheels on your VW car, there are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing and installing them. Firstly, make sure that the wheels you’re buying are in good condition and come with the proper lug nuts. It’s also advisable to have a professional install the wheels to ensure that they’re centered and torqued properly.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that you have the correct tire size and aspect ratio for the Subaru wheels you’re using. This can impact the handling and performance of your VW car.
FAQ
Q: Can I use any size Subaru wheels on my VW car?
A: No, you must ensure that the size, lug pattern, and offset of the wheels match the specifications of your VW car.
Q: Will using Subaru wheels on my VW car affect its resale value?
A: Potentially, using non-factory wheels can affect the resale value of your car.
Q: Do I need to modify my VW car to use Subaru wheels?
A: Yes, you’ll need to purchase hub-centric rings and may need to roll or pull the fenders if using larger size Subaru wheels than what your VW car originally came with.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using Subaru wheels on a VW car is possible but requires a bit of research and modification. By confirming compatibility, purchasing the proper hub-centric rings, and possibly rolling or pulling the fenders, you can upgrade the performance and appearance of your VW car. However, it’s important to keep in mind the impact it can have on the speedometer and odometer readings, as well as the resale value of your car.
