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How to Choose the Right Wheel Size for Your Toyota GR Corolla
If you're in the market for a new wheel setup, this post is tailored just for you. We'll explore various sizes, offsets, and tire choices, with a focus on summer wheels because, let's face it, that's why you're here. While this isn't the most exhaustive guide, it will certainly set you on the path to selecting the wheels of your dreams.
Understanding Factory Sizing:
Let's kick things off by looking at the factory sizing:
- Wheels: 18x8.5 +30 5x114.3
- Tires: 235/40R18
You might have noticed a 10mm spacer on the rear wheels, added to help the factory wheels fill those substantial rear flares. This spacer is removable and slips onto the factory wheel bolts.
What is offset and why does it matter?
Offset is the measure from the center of the wheel width to the mating surface of where the wheel bolts to the car. A positive offset is when the center of the wheel width is CLOSER to the car, where negative offset is when the wheel is FURTHER. The offset is typically listed in millimeters, found after the wheel size, and can also be marked by a + or -, et, or referred to as back spacing. Example; 18x9.5 +22 is a positive 22mm offset. 18x10 et 38 is a positive 38mm offset. This measurement plays a crucial role in fender clearance, brake caliper clearance, and tire size choice.
Choosing the Right Size:
Selecting the right size is a personal decision influenced by your preferences and how you'll use the car. On previous cars I've run 18x11 +12 with 295/30R18's for a meaty fitment with flares. On another car I ran 18x10.5 +15 with 235/40R18 and -6 deg of camber for my bagged suspension phase (we've all been there... if you haven't, consider yourself lucky). I would say if you're reading this you either want to have the car look a certain way OR you're trying to increase the contact patch and increase grip.
Verifying Fitment:
If you've found a set of wheels but can't find examples of others with them, use a helpful tool like willtheyfit.com. Input the factory specs or specs similar to what you're considering, and it will show you how the new setup compares.
So what size are you going to run instead of +22?
Like I mentioned before, I really like how the +22 looks, and though it should sit further in once I lower the car, I am considering going with a +30. I tracked the car for 3 events last year and plan to do more this coming year. With the movement the car can do under those conditions and me lowering the car, I just want to make sure that I don't have any rubbing issues or kick a bunch of debris up on track, as the wheels being farther in will help ensure less gets thrown out of the wheel wells. We'll see where we end up when the weather turns!