DOTZ explains

Let us decode for you

The number/letter combinations on rims are parameters that provide information on rim width, rim diameter in inches and offset.

Here’s an easy decoding of 7.5Jx16H2 ET35:

7.5 is given in inches (1 inch = 25.4mm) and denotes the nominal width or rim width which corresponds to the width and height, respectively of a hollow space between the rim flanges.

16 stands for the rim diameter and is also given in inches.

ET35 marks the offset, i.e. the distance between the mounting flange and the rim centre and is measured in millimetres.

J denotes the shape/type of rim flange.

H2 describes the type of hump.

The description listed above relates to the rim dimension which is especially important for the matching tyre size.

But there’s a lot more to it. There are other acronyms such as, for example, the various certifications.

VTA – stands for Vehicle Type Approval and guarantees that the rim is approved for the load capacity of the respective car, which saves additional homologation as long as the car is in its original condition.

ECE – the ECE certificate is approved in all EU countries and guarantees that the rim dimension corresponds to the production size and can therefore be fitted and driven free of registration.

However, exceptions prove the rule, and since some countries in Europe have their own regulations, it’s best to always carry your certificates when traveling. Simply click on https://www.dotz-wheels.com/tuev-certificate and print out your PDF certificate.

It’s best you check all important information on the rim of your choice in the DOTZ configurator where you will find all technical details at a glance. In addition to product details, four important menu items are provided as well:

Green thumb

If the “green thumb” pops up in your rim/car combination, the wheel matches the selected car a 100 percent.

Matching tyres

Furthermore, you will get the information “matching tyres” so as to fit the right tyres on your rims.

Fitting accessories

Here, you’ll find out whether you can use the original wheel screws or whether you need additional ones that can be ordered together with the rim.

Matching TPMS sensors

TPMS stands for tyre pressure monitoring system and is required by some cars. If that is the case, it’s good to get in touch with a specialist retailer or workshop you trust.

How’s your “tuning” lingo?

Usually, nothing stays the same when you start to tune. The language of tuning changes as rapidly as cars are tuned. In the scene, some or the other term is used that isn’t always easy to understand and often has nothing to do with the original meaning. DOTZ has decoded some of the trendy terms for you.

Ever heard of “stance”? If a lowered car has good stance, the wheels run close to the body, providing good grip. This is also called fitment.

But what is fitment all about? In this case, the grip, or more precisely, the traction between the car and the road.

Stretching is good not only after a workout, but also when it comes to tyres because “stretched tyres” with a low offset are a better fit for a lowered body.

If the tyre disappears under the body, the term “slamming” is used.

If the tyres are mounted close to the wing recess, the term “hellaflush” is used. “Helluflushed” wheels tilt outward of the car frame which can, however, hamper manoeuvring.

Things get really trippy with the “demon camber” when the tyres “plunge” the wheelhouse. This trend consisting of wheels cambering towards the road comes from Asia and allows for extreme lowering.

You are now up to speed on the latest terms. Have fun browsing the DOTZ rim wardrobe. Go check if the rim of your choice fits your car!