Introduction: Why Install Wheel Spacers on Your Subaru WRX

Wheel spacers are a popular modification among Subaru WRX owners who want to improve their vehicle's stance, handling, and aesthetics. By pushing the wheels outward, spacers create a wider track that can enhance cornering stability and give the car a more aggressive, planted look. Motul wheel spacers are specifically designed to meet high-quality standards, providing a reliable way to achieve this upgrade without compromising safety. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to installing them on your WRX, ensuring you get the best results while avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time modifier, following these instructions will help you complete the job correctly and safely.

What You Will Need

Before starting, gather all the necessary tools and components. Having everything ready prevents interruptions and ensures a smooth workflow.

  • Motul wheel spacers – Ensure they are the correct size and stud pattern for your Subaru WRX model year.
  • Hydraulic floor jack and jack stands – Use a low-profile jack for WRXs with lowered suspension and heavy-duty stands rated for at least 3 tons.
  • Lug wrench or breaker bar – To loosen and tighten lug nuts initially.
  • Torque wrench – Crucial for tightening lug nuts to manufacturer specifications. A ½-inch drive torque wrench with a range of 20-150 ft-lb is ideal.
  • Socket set – Typically 19mm or 21mm socket for OEM lug nuts; check your spacer kit for required sizes.
  • Brake cleaner – Aerosol brake parts cleaner to remove grease, dirt, and brake dust from hub surfaces.
  • Clean rags or shop towels – Lint-free rags for cleaning.
  • Thread locker (medium strength) – Recommended for the spacer studs to prevent loosening over time.
  • Wire brush – For removing rust or stubborn debris from the hub.
  • Measuring tape or caliper – To verify spacer thickness and check clearance after installation.

Important Safety Precautions

Working on your vehicle carries inherent risks. Always follow these safety guidelines:

  • Perform the installation on a flat, level surface, such as a concrete garage floor. Avoid gravel or uneven pavement.
  • Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (if lifting the front) or front wheels (if lifting the rear).
  • Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack to support the vehicle. Always use jack stands placed under the designated jacking points.
  • Wear safety glasses and gloves, especially when using brake cleaner or cleaning the hub.
  • Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from brake cleaner or thread locker.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation sets the stage for a safe and efficient installation. Take your time with these initial steps:

  1. Park and secure the vehicle. Pull your Subaru WRX onto a flat area, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks.
  2. Loosen the lug nuts. While the vehicle is still on the ground, use a lug wrench or breaker bar to break the torque on all lug nuts on each wheel you plan to remove. Loosen them about a quarter to half turn, but do not remove them yet. This step is easier with the weight of the car applying pressure to the wheel.
  3. Prepare your workspace. Clear the area of any obstacles and lay out your tools and spacers for easy access.
  4. Check spacer compatibility. Ensure the spacers have the correct center bore (hub-centric) and that the studs are long enough to accommodate any aftermarket wheels you might have. Motul spacers typically come with their own studs, but verify the thread pitch matches your WRX (usually M12 x 1.25).

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Step 1: Lifting the Vehicle

Using the hydraulic jack, lift the vehicle at the designated front or rear jacking point. For Subaru WRXs, the front jacking point is usually a reinforced area behind the front bumper, and the rear is under the differential or the designated rear crossmember. Refer to your owner’s manual for exact locations. Lift the vehicle high enough so you can easily remove the wheels and have adequate clearance to work with the spacers. Once lifted, place jack stands under the side jacking points (the pinch welds) using rubber adapters to prevent damage. Lower the jack gently until the vehicle's weight rests entirely on the stands. Give the vehicle a gentle shake to confirm it is stable before proceeding.

Step 2: Removing the Wheels

With the vehicle securely on jack stands, remove the loosened lug nuts completely. Keep them in a safe container to avoid losing them. Carefully pull the wheel straight off the hub. If the wheel is stuck, gently tap the sidewall with a rubber mallet or kick the tire from the inside. Avoid using force that could damage the wheel or brake components. Set the wheels aside in a clean area, leaning them against a wall or laying flat.

Step 3: Cleaning the Hub Surface

A clean hub surface is critical for proper spacer fitment. Use a wire brush to remove any rust, dirt, or debris from the wheel mounting face. Spray brake cleaner generously onto the hub and wipe it down with a clean rag. Also clean the back of the wheel rotor (if accessible) and the spacer mounting faces. Any contamination between the hub, spacer, and wheel can lead to vibration or loosening over time. Allow the brake cleaner to evaporate completely before proceeding.

Step 4: Installing the Wheel Spacers

If your Motul spacers come with separate studs, first apply a drop of medium-strength thread locker to the threads of the spacers’ studs and press them into the spacer body. Let the thread locker cure for a few minutes. Then, align the spacer with the hub. Slide the spacer onto the wheel studs (or hub pilot) gently. It should fit snugly without excessive force. Motorul spacers are hub-centric, meaning they center on the hub's lip rather than relying on the lug nuts for centering. Push the spacer until it seats flush against the hub. If it does not seat easily, double-check for debris or corrosion. Once seated, hand-tighten the included hardware (usually shorter bolts or nuts) to hold the spacer in place. For spacers that bolt onto the existing studs, use the provided nuts and tighten them temporarily to hold the spacer. Do not fully torque these until the wheel is installed.

Step 5: Replacing the Wheels

Lift your wheel and align it with the spacer studs. If the spacer uses its own studs, the wheel will slide onto those studs. Ensure the wheel is centered and the holes align properly. Gently push the wheel onto the hub until it sits flush against the spacer. Hand-thread the lug nuts onto the studs, tightening them in a star or cross pattern to ensure even seating. Use your fingers to tighten them as much as possible. Do not use tools yet, as cross-threading is more likely at this stage.

Step 6: Torqueing the Lug Nuts

Using a torque wrench set to the manufacturer's specifications, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. For a Subaru WRX, the typical torque spec is between 80-90 ft-lb for alloy wheels, but always verify in your owner's manual or with the spacer manufacturer. Start with a lower torque pass (e.g., 50 ft-lb) followed by a final pass at the recommended torque. This two-step approach prevents uneven stress. Ensure each nut is tightened in increments – do not skip positions. After torquing all nuts, double-check each one to confirm consistency. Never over-torque, as this can warp brake rotors or damage the studs.

Step 7: Lowering the Vehicle

Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle using the jack. Lower slowly and under control. Once the vehicle is on the ground, do not immediately drive off. Perform the final torque check on the ground. Use the torque wrench to re-check each lug nut to ensure they have not loosened under the initial weight. Adjust as needed.

Step 8: Final Checks

With the vehicle standing on its wheels, visually inspect the clearance between the tires and the fenders. Turn the steering wheel full lock in both directions to check for rubbing. Listen for any contact sounds. Also, check the rear wheels for clearance against the suspension components. Use a tape measure to compare the track width before and after if desired. Drive the car slowly in a safe area (e.g., parking lot) and test brakes for unusual noises. After about 50-100 miles of driving, re-torque the lug nuts again, as the spacer may settle slightly. This is a critical maintenance step often overlooked.

Post-Installation Tips and Best Practices

After installation, pay attention to how your WRX handles. A wider track can lead to more responsive turn-in but may also alter steering feel. Be cautious during the first few drives. Additionally, consider alignment adjustment. Installing spacers can affect toe and camber angles; it is wise to have a professional alignment to ensure even tire wear and optimal handling. Use a thread-locker on spacer-to-hub fasteners as specified by Motul. Regularly inspect the spacers and lug nuts during routine maintenance – check for signs of loosening or corrosion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using poor-quality spacers. Stick to reputable brands like Motul that are hub-centric and made from high-grade aluminum or steel. Cheap spacers can fail under stress.
  • Incorrect torque. Under-torquing risks nuts loosening; over-torquing can strip threads or distort rotors. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.
  • Skipping the re-torque step. Always re-torque after initial driving to account for spacer settlement.
  • Not cleaning the hub. Even small debris can cause vibration and lead to spacer failure.
  • Ignoring clearance issues. Spacers that are too thick can cause tire rubbing on fenders or suspension. Measure twice, install once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will wheel spacers affect my Subaru WRX’s warranty?

Aftermarket modifications can potentially void warranty claims related to suspension or wheel components. However, many owners successfully use spacers without issues. Keep the original parts to revert if needed. Consult your dealer for policy details.

Can I install wheel spacers on all four corners?

Yes, but many owners choose to install only on the rear or front for specific handling characteristics. For the best stability and appearance, a full set is recommended. Ensure all spacers are the same thickness to maintain consistent track width.

How do I know if my wheel studs are long enough for the spacers?

When using wheel spacers, the studs must engage the lug nuts by at least six full threads (the thread length equal to the stud diameter). Motul spacers typically come with extended studs. If not, you may need longer studs. Check with a thread gauge.

What thickness of Motul spacer is best for a Subaru WRX?

Common sizes range from 5mm to 25mm. For a subtle flush fit with stock fenders, 15mm front and 20mm rear is popular. Thinner spacers (under 5mm) usually do not come with separate studs and may require cutting or replacing OEM studs. Always verify fitment with your wheel offset and tire width.

Conclusion

Installing Motul wheel spacers on your Subaru WRX is a rewarding DIY project that can transform the look and feel of your car. With careful preparation, proper tools, and adherence to torque specifications, you can achieve a safe and effective upgrade. Remember to prioritize safety at every step, from jacking the vehicle to the final re-torque. After installation, enjoy the improved stance and confident handling your WRX will deliver. For more information on Motul products, refer to the Motul official site. For additional details on Subaru-specific fitment, check resources like Subaru Owner Resources or enthusiast forums such as NASIOC for real-world advice. Drive safely and enjoy the enhanced performance.