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Choosing the right wheel spacers for your Subaru Forester affects handling, track width, and wheel clearance in everyday driving and modified setups. You want spacers that fit the Forester precisely, maintain proper wheel offset, and use durable materials that resist corrosion and fatigue.This guide covers our shortlist of top picks for Subaru Forester wheel spacers and explains the evaluation criteria used to narrow the list. Read on to understand what matters for fitment, installation, and long-term use before you pick the spacer that suits your goals.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Forester parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | West Coast Wheel Accessories 6×5.5 Hub-Centric Wheel Spacer 0.375" with Lip (Sold Individually) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | AA Ignition 1" 5×100 Hub-Centric Wheel Spacer Kit (56.1mm Bore) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Spidertrax WHS007 1.25 in. Wheel Spacer Kit |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Cmd motoring 25mm Hubcentric Wheel Spacers 5×114.3 for Subaru Forester |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | PHILTOP 5×100 Hub-Centric Wheel Spacers, 2" (56.1mm Bore) — 4 Pack |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Customadeonly 50mm Hubcentric Wheel Spacers (5×114.3, 56.1mm) — 2pc |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Orion Motor Tech 25mm (1") 5×100 Wheel Spacer Kit with Studs, Set of 4 |  |
1. West Coast Wheel Accessories 6×5.5 Hub-Centric Wheel Spacer 0.375" with Lip (Sold Individually)
| Bolt pattern | 6×139.7mm |
|---|---|
| Centerbore | 78.1mm |
| Thickness | 0.375" |
| Material | 6061-T6 billet aluminum |
This wheel spacer is a compact, hub-centric adapter intended to push a wheel outward by 0.375 inches to clear brakes or suspension components and help achieve a flush stance. It is machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum and sold individually, so installers should order the correct quantity for their vehicle. Its hub-centric design helps reduce vibration by matching the centerbore to the hub and reviewers report solid fitment and finish. Typical use is for modest clearance fixes, slight offset changes, or to provide room for aftermarket wheels on vehicles that rub. Because the spacer is fairly thin, many users keep factory lug hardware but some applications will require extended studs or lug nuts to reach safe thread engagement; check thread engagement before driving. The spacer is a simple, low-cost solution when you need a small, repeatable offset, but it is not a substitute for suspension modification or professional alignment when larger changes are required.
Best for: A reliability-focused buyer who wants a straightforward, factory-quality fix for small clearance or offset issues and prefers parts that preserve hub centering and reduce vibration.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning major wheel offsets, significant suspension lifts, or who want a one-time complete wheel fitment kit should consider thicker spacers or professional fitment solutions instead.
- Hub-centric design preserves hub centering and helps reduce wheel vibration.
- 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction offers good strength and corrosion resistance for road use.
- 0.375" thickness provides a modest offset useful for minor brake or caliper clearance problems.
- Clean machined finish and precise bolt pattern (6×139.7mm) for consistent fitment when matched to the vehicle.
- Sold individually so you can purchase exactly the number needed for specific wheel locations.
- Thin 0.375" spacer may require extended studs or longer lug nuts in some applications to achieve safe thread engagement.
- Sold individually rather than in sets which requires careful ordering to ensure correct quantity.
- Not suitable for large offset changes or as a replacement for proper suspension or wheel fitment engineering.
Verdict A well-machined, hub-centric 0.375" spacer that reliably fixes modest clearance problems but may need stud extensions for full lug engagement.
2. AA Ignition 1" 5×100 Hub-Centric Wheel Spacer Kit (56.1mm Bore)
| Bolt pattern | 5×100 |
|---|---|
| Spacer thickness | 1 inch |
| Bore | 56.1mm |
| Stud grade | 10.9 grade studs |
This AA Ignition wheel spacer kit pushes wheels out by one inch to increase clearance for larger tires, wider wheels, or brake upgrades on compatible Subaru vehicles. It is CNC machined and anodized for corrosion resistance and ships as a complete kit with studs, 10.9-grade hardware, and heat-treated lug nuts so you can install it without sourcing extra parts. For a Forester, the hub-centric 56.1mm bore helps keep the wheel centered during fitting which reduces vibration risk when installed correctly. Typical use is for modest stance adjustment, preventing caliper rub after bigger brakes or mild lift/leveling, and for improving track width for handling feel. Some users report very quiet, OEM-like fit while others have noted noise on a small number of sets, so careful torqueing and periodic checks are advisable. These spacers are a practical, convenience-focused option when you want a ready-to-install kit that matches common Subaru wheel bolt pattern, but they are not a substitute for suspension or brake engineering and require correct fitment to the Forester hub.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who prioritize a ready-to-install, hardware-complete spacer to clear brakes or achieve a mild stance change on a Subaru Forester without hunting for parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking major suspension or clearance changes, or those who prefer professionally engineered performance upgrades, should consider dedicated suspension or wheel options instead.
- Complete kit includes studs and heat-treated lug nuts so no extra hardware is needed for installation.
- CNC machined, hub-centric design with 56.1mm bore improves wheel centering and reduces vibration risk when matched to the hub.
- Anodized finish offers added corrosion resistance for long-term use in road conditions.
- Some buyers report audible noise on a minority of units, indicating possible variability in fit or balancing.
- Requires correct installation and torque sequence; improper fitment can cause vibration or premature wear.
- Not a replacement for suspension or brake modifications when larger changes are needed.
Verdict A convenient, hub-centric 1-inch spacer kit made for Subaru applications that delivers an easy hardware-complete way to gain clearance or a wider track when properly installed.
3. Spidertrax WHS007 1.25 in. Wheel Spacer Kit
| Bolt Pattern (Number of Holes) | 6 |
|---|---|
| Bolt Pattern (Pitch Circle Diameter) | 5.5 Inches |
| Rim Diameter | 5 Inches |
The Spidertrax WHS007 is a bolt-on 1.25 inch wheel spacer kit that moves the wheel outboard to provide added clearance and a wider stance. It installs like a wheel using the preinstalled 4140 studs and includes threadlocker and instructions, so a competent DIYer or shop can fit them quickly. The spacers are machined from anodized 6061-T6 aluminum and are hub-centric for a tight fit against the vehicle hub, which helps minimize vibration when installed correctly. For performance-minded owners the practical benefits are improved wheel clearance for larger tires and a wider track for a more planted look and feel. Limitations include the fixed 1.25 inch offset so you cannot fine-tune spacing without buying a different thickness and the need to follow torque and recheck procedures carefully to avoid fastening issues. These are high-quality, durable spacers but they must be used with compatible hub-centric wheels and proper installation practices.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners who prioritize factory-quality components and a firmer, wider stance to accommodate larger tires and improve handling confidence.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need variable spacing or who prefer an easy universal fit solution should consider adjustable or vehicle-specific alternatives instead.
- Hub-centric machining for a precise fit to the hub which reduces runout risk
- Preinstalled 4140 wheel studs simplify installation and ensure proper stud quality
- Anodized 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction offers good strength-to-weight
- Includes threadlocker and instructions to support correct installation
- Fixed 1.25 inch thickness limits adjustability if you need a different offset
- Designed specifications target Toyota bolt patterns so fitment must be verified for other vehicles
Verdict A high-quality, hub-centric 1.25 inch spacer built for durability and precise fit, best for buyers seeking a factory-style upgrade for wider tires and a more planted stance.
4. Cmd motoring 25mm Hubcentric Wheel Spacers 5×114.3 for Subaru Forester
| Bolt pattern | 5×114.3mm |
|---|---|
| Spacer thickness | 25mm (1 inch) |
| Hub bore | 56.1mm |
| Thread pitch | M12x1.25 |
These Cmd motoring wheel spacers are a budget-friendly way to push your Forester's wheels outward by 25mm for a wider stance and improved cornering feel. Made from forged 6061-T6 aluminum with an anodized finish and CNC machining, they are designed to be hubcentric to center the wheel on the hub and reduce vibration. The set includes heat-treated 10.9 bolts and specifies M12x1.25 thread pitch and a recommended torque, which makes installation straightforward for anyone comfortable removing wheels and torquing hardware to spec. They can require shortening factory studs depending on wheel design and do not include extra wheel studs, so plan for that during installation. For everyday street driving and mild off-road use the spacers provide a more aggressive look and slightly improved stability, but heavier duty or extreme off-road use would call for thicker spacers or a different heavy-duty solution.
Best for: Budget-conscious Subaru Forester owners who want a simple, affordable way to widen their track for improved street handling and a more aggressive look without major suspension changes.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning extreme off-road use, heavy-load towing, or those seeking large offset changes should consider heavier-duty adapters or professional suspension modifications instead.
- Hubcentric 56.1mm bore centers the wheel for reduced vibration
- Forged 6061-T6 aluminum with anodized finish for corrosion resistance
- Includes heat-treated 10.9 bolts for secure attachment
- CNC machining ensures consistent thickness and fit
- Does not include wheel studs so some wheels may require stud shortening or additional hardware
- 25mm thickness may not suit heavy-duty off-road setups that need greater clearance
Verdict A cost-conscious, hubcentric 25mm spacer that cleans up wheel fitment and handling for Forester owners who want a simple stance upgrade without high expense.
5. PHILTOP 5×100 Hub-Centric Wheel Spacers, 2" (56.1mm Bore) — 4 Pack
| Bolt pattern | 5×100 mm |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 2 inch (50.8 mm) |
| Thread pitch | M12 x 1.25 |
| Hub bore | 56.1 mm |
| Recommended torque | 70-80 ft/lbs |
These PHILTOP wheel spacers are a 2-inch, 5×100 bolt-pattern kit intended to move your wheels outward on compatible Subaru models. They bolt to the hub and provide additional clearance for larger tires or to correct caliper and rubbing issues while changing stance. The spacers are CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with an anodized finish and ship with heat-treated studs designed for durability and corrosion resistance. For everyday use they function as a straightforward bolt-on solution: install the spacer to the hub, torque to the recommended 70 to 80 ft-lbs, then mount the wheel to the spacer and re-torque after 25 to 50 miles. Practical benefits include resolving brake clearance problems, enabling wider tires, and giving a wider track for improved cornering feel. Important limitations are that fitment must match your car's 5×100 bolt pattern and hub bore, and the vehicle's original stud length may require modification; correct torqueing and periodic re-checks are essential for safety.
Best for: A risk-averse mainstream buyer looking for a factory-quality, bolt-on way to fix rubbing or clearance issues on a Subaru and who prioritizes predictable fitment and durability.
Less Ideal for: Drivers wanting a radically different suspension or fitment solution or those unwilling to verify hub and stud compatibility should consider other options.
- Full 2-inch spacer thickness provides significant clearance for larger tires and caliper fitment.
- CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum construction with anodized coating for corrosion resistance.
- Pre-installed heat-treated studs improve durability and make installation quicker.
- Designed to align with a 56.1mm hub bore to reduce wheel vibration when matched correctly.
- Requires verification of hub bore and stud length; may need bolt trimming or different lug nuts on some cars.
- Not suitable if your wheels or hubs use a different bolt pattern than 5×100.
- Installation requires careful torqueing and re-torque checks after initial miles to ensure safety.
Verdict A robust, machined 2-inch 5×100 spacer that solves clearance and stance issues on compatible Subaru models provided you confirm hub and stud fit before installation.
6. Customadeonly 50mm Hubcentric Wheel Spacers (5×114.3, 56.1mm) — 2pc
| Bolt pattern | 5×114.3 |
|---|---|
| Center bore | 56.1mm |
| Thickness per spacer | 50mm |
| Material | 6061 T6 aluminum |
| Stud grade | Class 10.9 carbon steel |
These Customadeonly 50mm hubcentric spacers bolt onto 5×114.3 hubs and use a centered lip to locate the wheel for a factory-style fit. They are typically used to widen track width and correct wheel offset so stock wheels fill the arches better or to provide clearance for larger tires. Machined with CNC from 6061 T6 aluminum and fitted with heat-treated class 10.9 studs, the spacers aim to deliver consistent balance and durability. In practice they install with basic hand tools and can noticeably change vehicle stance and handling feel by increasing scrub radius and track width. Common benefits reported include improved appearance and clearance without replacing wheels. Important limitations are inherent to long spacers: they alter load on studs and hub bearings and require correct torque, threadlocker, and periodic checks; one reviewer reported stud failure after high-mileage use. These are a strong value pick if you want a CNC-made, bolt-on solution for a Subaru, but plan routine maintenance and consider professional installation for high-mileage or heavy-load use.
Best for: Practical optimizers looking to improve their Subaru Forester's stance and wheel fitment without buying new wheels, prioritizing precise machining and cost effectiveness.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly carry heavy loads, tow, or drive long highway distances without frequent maintenance should consider a hub-mount wheel option or consult a shop before installing large spacers.
- Hubcentric design with locating lip for centered wheel fitment
- CNC-machined 6061 T6 aluminum construction for consistent tolerances
- Includes heat-treated class 10.9 studs for stronger fasteners than generic hardware
- Bolt-on installation for straightforward fitment to 5×114.3 Subaru hubs
- 50mm thickness significantly increases leverage on studs and bearings compared with small spacers
- Requires careful torqueing and use of threadlocker and periodic inspection
- Not a permanent fix for suspension or alignment issues and can affect steering geometry
Verdict A CNC-made 50mm hubcentric spacer that offers strong value for Subaru owners wanting improved stance and clearance, but plan installation care and regular checks.
7. Orion Motor Tech 25mm (1") 5×100 Wheel Spacer Kit with Studs, Set of 4
| Bolt pattern | 5×100 |
|---|---|
| Spacer thickness | 25 mm (1 inch) |
| Material | T6 aircraft-grade aluminum |
| Bolt size | M12 x 1.25 |
This Orion Motor Tech 25mm (1 inch) wheel spacer kit moves the wheel flange outward for a wider track and improved visual stance on 5×100 Subaru vehicles like the Forester. Installed between the hub and wheel, the hub-centric design centers the wheel on the hub to reduce vibration compared with non-hub-centric alternatives. The spacers are machined from T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and use Dacromat-coated M12 studs for better corrosion resistance, which keeps weight down while maintaining strength. Unique slots on the rear face make removal and servicing easier and help prevent damage during disassembly. In real-world use buyers report smoother cornering feel and no highway vibration when torqued correctly, though fitment checks are essential before installation. Limitations include the need to verify lug length and clearance with specific wheels and tires and the reliance on studs rather than longer factory studs, which may require re-torquing after initial miles. Professional installation or proper torque checks are recommended for safety.
Best for: Balanced buyers who want a reliable, visually noticeable track-width upgrade for their Subaru Forester that improves stance and cornering without large compromises.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning extreme off-road loads, major suspension lifts, or those who do not want to check wheel clearance and lug length should consider dedicated wheel conversion hardware or professional advice instead.
- Hub-centric design reduces vibration and helps wheels seat concentric to the hub
- T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction balances strength and low weight
- Dacromat-coated M12 studs resist corrosion better than plain bolts
- 25mm thickness gives a noticeable wider stance and improved cornering stability
- Rear slots make removal and servicing easier and reduce damage risk during use
- Requires verification of lug nut length and wheel clearance for each wheel and tire combination
- Some users reported occasional fitment or missing-piece issues in packaging
Verdict A well-made, hub-centric 25mm spacer that gives Forester owners a safer-feeling wider stance when fitted and checked properly.
Choosing the Right Subaru Forester Wheel Spacers: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Bolt Pattern
Correct bolt pattern and hub bore alignment are fundamental for safe spacer use. A spacer must match the Forester's lug pattern exactly to ensure studs align and lug nuts seat properly.
Hub-centric spacers that match the vehicle's center bore reduce the risk of runout and uneven load transfer. If a spacer is lug-centric, additional centering measures are often necessary. Double-check vehicle-specific fitment information and avoid adapters that require drastic modifications.
Material and Construction
Material choice directly affects strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. Look for aerospace-grade aluminum alloys with proper heat treatment for a good balance of stiffness and low weight.
Avoid low-grade cast alloys or unknown metal mixes. For heavier-duty needs, thicker designs or steel studs may be preferable, but steel adds weight and corrosion considerations. Quality machining and anodizing or corrosion-resistant coatings extend service life.
Thickness and Offset
Spacer thickness determines how far the wheel moves outward and affects track width, scrub radius, and fender clearance. Small increases can alter handling subtly, while large thicknesses may require suspension or fender modifications.
Consider wheel spacer thickness in the context of tire and wheel width. A thickness guide helps you predict clearance changes and whether wheel bolts or studs will have sufficient engagement. Plan for the tradeoff between aesthetics and functional suspension geometry.
Hub-Centric Vs Lug-Centric Design
Hub-centric spacers center the wheel on the vehicle hub, which helps maintain concentricity and reduce vibration risk. Lug-centric spacers rely solely on the wheel studs for centering and can be adequate if tolerances are tight and studs are in good condition.
For daily-driven Foresters, hub-centric options often offer a smoother, more reliable fit. If choosing lug-centric spacers, inspect fit carefully and consider using centering rings when available to improve alignment.
Installation Hardware and Instructions
Complete installation kits that include extended studs, longer lug nuts, and clear torque specs simplify a safe installation. Proper hardware ensures studs have adequate thread engagement after spacer installation.
Good instructions will specify torque values and sequence, any required re-torquing interval, and whether thread-locking compound is recommended. Missing or thin hardware can increase risk of loosening or uneven clamping forces.
Durability and Long-Term Maintenance
Spacers are subject to road loads, corrosion, and cyclic stress. Regular inspection for cracking, corrosion, or loosened hardware helps maintain safety. Choose spacers with protective finishes and proven fatigue resistance when possible.
Maintenance considerations include monitoring torque over the first few hundred miles, checking for unusual vibration, and ensuring coatings remain intact to prevent accelerated wear.
FAQ
Will wheel spacers cause vibration on my Forester?
Vibration often depends on fitment and centering rather than spacers themselves. Hub-centric spacers that match the hub bore reduce runout and vibration risk. Improperly centered or damaged spacers, poor wheel balancing, or insufficient stud engagement can contribute to vibration.
How do I know what spacer thickness to choose?
Thickness depends on the clearance you need between tire and suspension or fender. Smaller thicknesses adjust track slightly with minimal geometry change, while larger thicknesses can affect scrub radius and may require additional modifications. Measure current clearances and consult a thickness guide to estimate the outward wheel position before deciding.
Are hub-centric spacers better than lug-centric ones?
Hub-centric spacers typically provide better centering and tend to reduce the chance of vibration. Lug-centric spacers can be acceptable when tolerances are tight and hardware is in excellent condition. Choose hub-centric designs when possible for more consistent alignment.
What torque specs should I use when installing spacers?
Torque specs vary by vehicle and hardware type, so follow manufacturer recommendations for lug nut torque and any spacer-specific guidance. Use a calibrated torque wrench, tighten in a star pattern, and recheck torque after an initial break-in interval. If extended studs are used, ensure adequate thread engagement per spec.
Can I install wheel spacers myself?
Many owners install spacers with common tools if they follow clear instructions and torque sequences. Basic requirements include a torque wrench, correct hardware, and the ability to safely lift and secure the vehicle. If you are unsure about fitment or torque procedures, professional installation is advisable.
Do spacers affect wheel bearing or suspension life?
Spacers change track width and can alter load distribution on bearings and suspension components. Minor spacer thicknesses usually have negligible effects, while large offsets can increase leverage on bearings and joints. Consider spacing size as part of overall vehicle geometry and monitor components for accelerated wear.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Forester Wheel Spacers
We focused on spacers and kits that offer reliable fitment for the Subaru Forester platform and meet core structural and safety expectations. Key evaluation criteria included bolt pattern and hub sizing to ensure precise centering, material specification and hardness to resist stress and corrosion, and design type such as hub-centric versus lug-centric. We also assessed thickness and offset options to cover common clearance and stance goals, plus installation hardware quality including extended studs or hub-centric rings.Additional filters included manufacturing tolerances, documented torque recommendations, and whether the product supports common wheel bolt patterns used on Forester models. We excluded any spacers lacking clear fitment data, uncertified materials, or incomplete installation kits. The remaining selections reflect options that balance durability, fit accuracy, and practical installation concerns for Subaru Forester owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Selecting Subaru Forester wheel spacers means balancing fitment accuracy, material quality, and the thickness that matches your clearance or stance goals. Prioritize hub-centric designs, verified bolt pattern fit, and complete installation hardware to reduce the chance of vibration or premature wear.Remember that thicker spacers introduce greater changes to suspension geometry and may require additional modifications or more frequent inspections. Choose a spacer that fits your practical needs, follow proper installation torque procedures, and plan routine checks after installation.
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