Wheels That Fit - Mazda3

[bryanska]

I just purchased a perfect set of Mazda3 wheels for my 2010 Tucson.

They're the right size - 50mm offset, 17x6, 5x114 bolt pattern, and even the right centerbore of 67.1mm. The Hyundai centercap even snaps right into these mazda wheels. I may need 1/4" spacers, however.

So FYI - first-gen Mazda3 wheels should fit.

[bryanska]

Oops, wheel width is 6.5.

[cash86]

Just out of curiousity, what did you pay for those wheels? Man I bought a Mazda 3i back in '05 with 16" alloys. At that point those 17" rims were the crack, I could never find a set I could afford!

[bryanska]

QUOTE (cash86 @ Jul 20 2011, 02:10 PM)

Just out of curiousity, what did you pay for those wheels? Man I bought a Mazda 3i back in '05 with 16" alloys. At that point those 17" rims were the crack, I could never find a set I could afford!

You're not going to believe I paid only $125 for the entire set.

For about three months I've been searching for acceptable 17" wheels on Craigslist. Nearly every day, over breakfast, I type in four or five search terms from my "wish list".

I only buy if it's a screaming deal and no hassle. I never pay more than $200 for a set of used alloy wheels. At $300, used wheels are essentially the same price as new. (Tire Rack has generic alloy wheels for $400 a set. Add $100 for shipping. Any private wheels add $100 for tire mounting and up to $50 for extra parts like lugs and centering rings.)

[cash86]

QUOTE (bryanska @ Jul 21 2011, 08:29 AM)

You're not going to believe I paid only $125 for the entire set.

Wow! That really puts life into perspective. Man back in the day those champs were going for $1k a set! BTW, one of my favorite OEM rims ever, The 16's had the same overall design without the indents at the end of each spoke. Always reminds of of the old school Cragers I grew up with! Nice choice, give us a pix once they're installed!

[bryanska]

OK, so I finally installed the wheels this weekend.

There is only about 2mm clearance between the brake caliper and wheel spoke. It's VERY tight. However, this seems to be the minimum recommended clearance and we've had no problems so far. I was going to buy 3mm spacers for the front but it seems I don't need them.

The centerbore is exact. It's very reassuring to watch them sung up tightly as the lugs are tightened. Also, the stock lugs have about 10.5 turns, far above the minimum 7 for safe engagement.

So I have to say, these are perfect winter wheels. Mazda 3s are basically everywhere, so these 17s should be around for a long time on the used market. A fantastic outcome.