Why Are Wheel Spacers Important for Your VW SUV?

Did you know that many VW vehicles are modifiable and ideal options for project or overlanding cars? You can tailor your family commuter to your preferred driving activities with the right tools and parts. One such addition that can dramatically transform your vehicle’s dynamics in both overlanding and street situations is the humble yet powerful wheel spacer.

Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or a city driver, wheel spacers enhance your driving experience by offering increased stability, control, and more. Explore how this simple modification works and discover why wheel spacers are so important for your VW SUV.

What Are Wheel Spacers?

Wheel spacers are flat, circular discs with holes in them, often made from aluminum or steel. They are installed between a vehicle’s wheels and the hub assembly. The primary purpose of these spacers is to generate extra space between the wheel and the hub assembly. By doing so, they effectively push the wheels farther out from the vehicle’s body.

For many SUV drivers, particularly those who are overlanding enthusiasts, wheel spacers are an essential modification. These drivers use wheel spacers to make room for larger tires, which offer superior control and torque, especially on less stable terrains and in off-road environments. By fitting their SUVs with wheel spacers, they enhance their vehicles’ performance and stability in challenging driving conditions.

What Are Their Benefits?

Wheel spacers offer numerous benefits for off-roading and overlanding. By creating more space between the wheel and the vehicle hub, they allow for the fitting of larger tires. As previously mentioned, larger tires significantly enhance traction, control, and stability when navigating unstable terrains, which is a critical aspect of off-roading. The increase in torque also means that your vehicle can navigate steep terrains more efficiently, providing a smoother and safer off-road experience.

However, the benefits of wheel spacers are not limited to off-road driving. They also offer remarkable on-road advantages. Wheel spacers can support larger brake calipers, leading to smoother and more efficient braking. Additionally, by pushing the wheels farther out, wheel spacers can increase your vehicle’s stability around corners, giving you more control and confidence while driving. Despite these enhancements, wheel spacers do not impact your vehicle’s gas mileage. Above all, wheel spacers are an affordable modification that is easy to install—particularly on Volkswagen vehicles—making them an attractive option for many drivers.

Can You Add Wheel Spacers Yourself?

The answer to the question of whether you can add wheel spacers yourself is a resounding yes. This modification is common and simple enough for any seasoned gearhead to complete. But even if you are new to vehicle modifications, you can still accomplish this task.

Adding wheel spacers involves removing the wheel, sliding the spacer onto the hub, and then reattaching the wheel. While the process is straightforward, following the manufacturer’s instructions and using the correct tools is crucial to ensure a safe and effective installation. It is also important to remember that after installing wheel spacers, you should have your vehicle’s alignment checked and adjusted as necessary to ensure optimal performance and safety.

There are plenty of reasons why wheel spacers are important for your VW SUV, from better performance off-road to superior control on paved streets. Are you ready to enhance your ride? Please browse the selection of parts available at B2BFAB, including our helpful VW Atlas Cross Sport lift kit and other modification products.