What are the side effects of using wheels with offset smaller than original?

[htmad]

Assuming that the new wheels fit, what are the side effects of using wheels with offset smaller than the original wheels? Are suspensions or other components tear more easily because the center of the wheels "sticks out" more?

My A6 has alloys 7jx16 ET45, I'm evaluating mounting 8jx18 ET35 or ET40.


Thanks

[zollaf]

first you need to know how to calculate the offset of a wheel. you have 7 j rims, which are 7'' wide. the offset is the distance from the theoretical centre to the hub mounting surface. substitute an 8'' wide rim with the same offset and it sticks out more, because its wider, even though the offset is the same. in your case, an 8j rim with an offset of et33 will have the same offset as what you have now.

[kid-jensen]

The Offset change you're quoting won't make a significant difference to the geometry or steering feel.....maybe a slightly increased tendency to tug at the steering wheel when going over a single pothole, but that level of change won't turn it into a thumb-breaker...

The biggest difference youi'll notice with the change to 18" wheels is much better turn-in, general chuckability and lower roll angles. The downside being more road noise, and a much harder ride.

If the roads you drive on are anything like the ones near me, I'd get used to the idea of a LOT more rattles!

Of course, if you're lending it to a female, you'll also get great big chunks of alloy mysteriously disappearing from the edges of the rims...

[htmad]

first you need to know how to calculate the offset of a wheel. (...).

Thanks. I've taken that into consideration. I'm using this tool: Online Wheel and Tyre Fitment Calculator. Offset, Tyre Stretch and Speedo Error | Will They Fit (http://www.willtheyfit.com/index.php?width=205&aspect=55&diameter=16&wheelwidth=7J&offset=45&width2=235&aspect2=40&diameter2=18&wheelwidth2=8J&offset2=35#content)

It gives a good idea of what would be the final distance from the suspension (or - better - the delta with respect the original rim).