So, you're thinking about adding wheel spacers to your 2010 Subaru Impreza? Awesome! You've come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the basics of what wheel spacers are and why you might want them, to choosing the right ones for your Impreza and making sure they're installed safely. Let's dive in!

What are Wheel Spacers?

Wheel spacers, at their core, are simple devices: they're essentially metal discs that you install between your wheel and the hub of your car. This pushes the wheel further out from the vehicle. Why would you want to do this? Well, there are several reasons, both aesthetic and functional.

• Improving Appearance: This is probably the most common reason people install wheel spacers. Pushing your wheels out a bit can give your Impreza a more aggressive, sporty stance. It can make the car look wider and more planted, filling out the wheel wells for a more complete look. Let's be honest, who doesn't want their ride to look cooler?.
• Correcting Fitment Issues: Sometimes, when you upgrade to aftermarket wheels, they might not have the perfect offset for your car. They could rub against the suspension components or the inside of the wheel wells. Wheel spacers can provide the necessary clearance to prevent this rubbing and ensure your wheels fit properly. Imagine getting those awesome new rims only to find out they don't quite fit – wheel spacers can be a lifesaver.
• Increasing Handling Performance: A wider track width (the distance between the wheels on the same axle) can theoretically improve handling by increasing stability, especially during cornering. However, the effect on a road car like the Impreza is often minimal and more noticeable on the track. It's more of a subtle enhancement than a dramatic transformation. The change might not even be noticeable for daily driving, but on a track day, you will feel more confident.
• Clearing Big Brake Kits: If you've upgraded to a big brake kit, the larger calipers might interfere with the stock wheels. Wheel spacers can create the extra space needed to accommodate these bigger brakes. This is crucial for performance enthusiasts who want improved stopping power. Therefore, wheel spacers are a must-have in such scenarios.

Are Wheel Spacers Safe?

Now, before you rush out and buy a set of wheel spacers, it's important to address the safety question. When installed correctly, using high-quality components, wheel spacers are generally safe. However, there are risks involved if you use cheap spacers or don't install them properly. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Quality Matters: Don't skimp on quality! Buy wheel spacers from reputable brands that use high-grade materials like billet aluminum. Avoid cheap, no-name spacers, as they may be prone to cracking or failure. Remember, your safety depends on these parts, so it's worth investing in quality.
• Proper Installation is Key: This is non-negotiable. Wheel spacers must be installed correctly, with the correct torque specifications for the wheel nuts. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, have a professional mechanic install them. An improperly installed wheel spacer can cause wheel wobble, vibration, and even wheel separation – a terrifying scenario.
• Stud Length: Depending on the thickness of the wheel spacer, you might need to install extended wheel studs to ensure there's enough thread engagement for the wheel nuts. This is crucial for safety, as insufficient thread engagement can lead to the wheel nuts loosening over time. Always double-check the stud length and consult with a professional if you're unsure.

Choosing the Right Wheel Spacers for Your 2010 Subaru Impreza

Okay, so you're ready to take the plunge. How do you choose the right wheel spacers for your 2010 Subaru Impreza? Here are some factors to consider:

• Thickness: Wheel spacers come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 3mm to 25mm or more. The thickness you choose will depend on the look you're going for, the amount of clearance you need, and whether you're willing to install extended wheel studs. A good starting point is to measure the gap between your tire and fender to determine the ideal thickness. Remember, too much can be as bad as too little!
• Bolt Pattern: Make sure the wheel spacers have the correct bolt pattern for your 2010 Subaru Impreza. The Impreza typically uses a 5x100 bolt pattern. Using the wrong bolt pattern is a recipe for disaster, so double-check before you buy.
• Hub-Centric vs. Lug-Centric: Hub-centric spacers are generally preferred over lug-centric spacers. Hub-centric spacers have a lip that fits snugly against the hub of the car, providing a more secure and stable connection. Lug-centric spacers rely solely on the wheel studs for centering, which can lead to vibration issues. Hub-centric spacers are the way to go for a smoother, safer ride.
• Material: As mentioned earlier, choose wheel spacers made from high-quality materials like billet aluminum. Avoid cheap, cast aluminum spacers, as they are more prone to cracking.

Types of Wheel Spacers

There are two main types of wheel spacers:

1. Slip-On Spacers: These are the most common type of wheel spacer. They simply slip over the existing wheel studs. For thicker slip-on spacers (typically anything over 5mm), you'll likely need to install extended wheel studs.
2. Bolt-On Spacers (Adapters): These spacers bolt directly to the hub using their own set of studs. Then, the wheel bolts to the spacer's studs. Bolt-on spacers are generally used when you need a significant amount of spacing or when you're changing the bolt pattern. They are more expensive than slip-on spacers but offer a more secure and robust solution.

Installation: Getting it Right

Installing wheel spacers isn't rocket science, but it does require attention to detail and a good understanding of torque specifications. If you're not comfortable working on your car, it's best to have a professional mechanic install them. Here's a general overview of the installation process:

1. Gather Your Tools: You'll need a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a torque wrench, and possibly some penetrating oil.
2. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Before lifting the car, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you're working on. Don't remove them completely, just break them loose.
3. Lift the Car and Secure it on Jack Stands: Use a jack to lift the car and place jack stands under the frame for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack!
4. Remove the Wheel: Now, you can remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
5. Clean the Hub Surface: Use a wire brush to clean any rust or debris from the hub surface. This will ensure a proper fit for the wheel spacer.
6. Install the Wheel Spacer: If you're using slip-on spacers, simply slide them over the wheel studs. If you're using bolt-on spacers, bolt them to the hub using the provided hardware. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
7. Install Extended Wheel Studs (If Necessary): If you're using thicker slip-on spacers, you'll need to install extended wheel studs. This usually involves pressing out the old studs and pressing in the new ones. This is a job best left to a professional mechanic.
8. Reinstall the Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
9. Lower the Car and Torque the Lug Nuts: Lower the car to the ground and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. It's crucial to use a torque wrench to ensure the lug nuts are properly tightened. Overtightening can damage the studs, while undertightening can cause the wheel to come loose.
10. Double-Check: After driving a short distance, re-torque the lug nuts to ensure they haven't loosened. It's a good habit to check them periodically, especially after the first few drives.

Important Considerations

• Fender Rubbing: After installing wheel spacers, check for fender rubbing, especially when turning or going over bumps. If you experience rubbing, you may need to roll your fenders or choose a thinner wheel spacer.
• Wheel Bearings: Wheel spacers can put additional stress on the wheel bearings, potentially shortening their lifespan. Keep an eye on your wheel bearings and replace them if they start to show signs of wear.
• Legality: Check your local laws and regulations regarding wheel spacers. Some areas may have restrictions on how far the wheels can extend beyond the fenders.

Conclusion

Adding wheel spacers to your 2010 Subaru Impreza can be a great way to improve its appearance and correct fitment issues. By choosing high-quality spacers and installing them correctly, you can enjoy the benefits without compromising safety. Remember to consider the thickness, bolt pattern, and hub-centricity when selecting your spacers, and always double-check your work. Now go out there and give your Impreza that aggressive stance you've been dreaming of! Just be responsible and safe out there, alright guys?