Offset (ET) 32 rims

Offset (ET) 32 rims: Offset and wheel position

ET 32 rims have an offset of 32 millimetres. The offset describes the distance between the geometric centre of a rim and the contact surface on the wheel hub. With a positive value of 32 millimetres, this contact surface is located outside the centre of the rim.

Compared to a rim with a smaller offset, an ET 32 rim sits further inwards in the wheel arch when the width is identical. Compared to a rim with a higher ET value, it sits correspondingly further outwards. The offset therefore influences not only the appearance, but also the clearance to the bodywork, chassis and braking system.

Selecting an ET 32 suitable for your vehicle

Whether a rim with an ET 32 is suitable for a particular vehicle cannot be determined by this value alone. In addition, rim width, rim diameter, bolt circle, centre bore, load capacity and tyre size must be taken into account.

An unsuitable combination can result in the tyre or wheel rim coming into contact with chassis or bodywork components when the suspension compresses, whilst steering, or under heavy load. The clearance from the brake caliper must also be sufficient. The vehicle documentation, as well as the ABE, ECE approval or the parts certificate for the respective wheel rim, are therefore crucial.

Alloy and steel rims with ET 32

Rims with ET 32 are available both as alloy rims and as steel rims. This offset is particularly common in numerous vehicle applications, especially with alloy rims. The range extends from classic five-spoke wheels to sporty double-spoke and multi-spoke designs. Common finishes include silver, black, anthracite or bronze.

Steel rims are usually more simply designed and are often used as a robust solution for winter tyres or as a cost-effective replacement. The specific range on offer depends heavily on the rim diameter, bolt circle and vehicle type.

Well-known suppliers of such rims include:

Before purchasing, offset, load capacity, clearance, wheel cover and approval documents should be carefully checked.