Understanding the specifics of your Subaru Impreza 2017 wheel size is essential for both performance and safety. The diameter, width, and offset of the rims directly influence how the car handles, rides, and looks. Getting this information correct ensures optimal tire wear, proper clearance, and compliance with factory specifications designed for your specific model year.
Factory Specifications for the 2017 Model Year
For the 2017 model year, Subaru offered the Impreza with two primary trim levels, each featuring specific wheel and tire combinations straight from the factory. The standard configuration typically included 16-inch steel or aluminum alloy wheels shod with all-season tires. Drivers who opted for the higher trims, such as the Premium or Limited, received 17-inch alloy wheels that provided a more aggressive stance and improved performance metrics.
Trim Level Variations
The variation in wheel size is directly tied to the trim package you purchased. Base models were equipped with functional yet minimalist 16-inch steel wheels to keep costs down and prioritize reliability. In contrast, the sport-oriented trims featured 17-inch machined or multi-spoke alloy wheels that not only looked sharper but also allowed for the installation of higher-performance rubber.
Understanding Wheel Offset and Backspacing
While the diameter often gets the most attention, the offset is just as important when considering fitment. The 2017 Subaru Impreza typically utilized a positive offset, which means the mounting surface is positioned toward the front face of the wheel. This design helps keep the wheel seated properly within the fender well and maintains the correct geometry for the suspension components. Aftermarket Considerations When shopping for aftermarket wheels, you must calculate the correct offset to avoid rubbing. Installing a wheel with too little offset (or negative offset) can cause the tire to protrude past the fender, leading to damage during turns or over rough terrain. Conversely, too much positive push can strain the bearings and suspension.
Aftermarket Considerations
Performance and Handling Implications
Larger wheel sizes, such as the 17-inch options found on the Premium trim, generally offer better handling and braking performance. The larger diameter provides a wider contact patch, which increases grip during cornering and emergency maneuvers. However, this comes at the cost of increased unsprung weight, which can slightly affect fuel economy and ride comfort.
Tire Selection Matters
Sticking with the factory-recommended tire size for your specific wheel is vital. If you choose to upgrade to a larger rim, you must select a tire with a lower aspect ratio (the second number in the size, like the 50 in 215/50R17) to maintain the overall diameter. This prevents speedometer inaccuracies and ensures the vehicle's electronic stability and traction controls function as intended.
Over time, the bolts securing the wheel can loosen due to the vibration of daily driving. It is a good practice to re-torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification every couple of oil changes. Additionally, inspecting the wheel bearings regularly is crucial, as the weight of the tire and the stress of the suspension can wear them down, leading to noise or looseness in the steering.
