Types of Concave Wheels 5x108
A concave wheel with a 5x108 bolt pattern is more than just a stylish upgrade—it’s a functional enhancement that can improve both the aesthetics and performance of your vehicle. The "5x108" refers to a five-lug bolt pattern spaced evenly around a circle with a 108mm diameter, commonly found on vehicles like Ford, Volvo, Audi, and some Alfa Romeo models. These wheels are designed with an inward curvature that gives them a distinctive "dish" appearance, blending sporty appeal with modern design.
The concave shape not only enhances visual depth but also allows for better brake clearance and airflow, which can contribute to improved cooling and aerodynamics. Whether you're upgrading for style or performance, understanding the different types of concave wheels available will help you choose the best option for your driving needs and aesthetic preferences.
Super Deep Concave Wheels
These wheels feature an aggressive inward curve that creates a dramatic "deep dish" effect. They are often used by enthusiasts looking to make a bold visual statement while also increasing the track width for enhanced stability during high-speed cornering.
Advantages
- Eye-catching, premium look
- Improved lateral stability
- Better brake caliper visibility
- Enhanced aerodynamic profile
Limitations
- More susceptible to curb damage
- Limited tire clearance options
- Higher cost due to complex manufacturing
Best for: Show cars, tuner builds, luxury sedans seeking a bold stance
Deep Concave Wheels
With a significant inward curve but less extreme than super deep versions, these wheels strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality. They provide a striking visual without compromising too much on durability or ease of maintenance.
Advantages
- Attractive yet functional design
- Good compatibility with various suspension setups
- Moderate price range
- Versatile fitment options
Limitations
- Still requires careful parking to avoid rim damage
- Slightly reduced ground clearance in lowered vehicles
Best for: Daily drivers with a sporty edge, modified coupes, and street-performance vehicles
Moderate Concave Wheels
These wheels have a subtle inward curve that enhances the wheel's contour without making it overly prominent. Ideal for those who prefer a clean, OEM+ (Original Equipment Manufacturer Plus) look.
Advantages
- Subtle, refined appearance
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Compatible with most standard suspension systems
- Ideal for modern minimalist car designs
Limitations
- Less visually impactful compared to deeper styles
- May not stand out as much in enthusiast circles
Best for: Luxury sedans, executive cars, and modern hatchbacks
Custom Concave Wheels
Tailor-made to meet specific design and performance criteria, custom concave wheels allow owners to select everything from the degree of concavity to finish, color, and material type—offering unparalleled personalization.
Advantages
- Total customization options
- Unique design tailored to your vehicle
- Choice of materials (aluminum, forged alloys, etc.)
- Perfect fit for specialized applications
Limitations
- Longer lead times for production
- Higher cost compared to off-the-shelf options
- Requires expert installation
Best for: Enthusiasts, collectors, and high-end builds requiring unique styling
Forged Concave Wheels
Manufactured from a single block of aluminum alloy using high-pressure forging techniques, these wheels offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios. Forged wheels are often chosen for their superior performance characteristics and resistance to stress and fatigue.
Advantages
- Exceptionally lightweight yet strong
- Resistant to cracking under heavy load
- Preferred choice for motorsport and track use
- Can be repaired if damaged
Limitations
- Premium pricing
- Specialized manufacturing required
- Not always available in all sizes
Best for: Track-ready cars, high-horsepower builds, motorsport applications
Split Concave Wheels
This style features multiple sections on the wheel face that create a segmented, layered look. The split design adds visual complexity while maintaining structural integrity and reducing overall weight.
Advantages
- Unique multi-piece appearance
- Lightweight construction
- Durable and impact-resistant
- Available in both cast and forged variants
Limitations
- More expensive than basic cast wheels
- Potential for cosmetic imperfections at seam lines
Best for: Performance-oriented builds, luxury SUVs, and custom show vehicles
| Type | Visual Impact | Durability | Weight | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super Deep Concave | Excellent | Good | Heavy | Show cars, wide-body kits |
| Deep Concave | Very Good | Very Good | Moderate | Street performance, daily drivers |
| Moderate Concave | Good | Excellent | Light to Moderate | Modern luxury vehicles |
| Custom Concave | Excellent | Depends on material | Varies | Personalized builds, show cars |
| Forged Concave | Good | Excellent | Lightweight | Track cars, racing applications |
| Split Concave | Excellent | Very Good | Moderate | High-end luxury and performance vehicles |
Expert Tip: When choosing concave wheels, especially deep or super deep varieties, ensure adequate tire and brake clearance to prevent rubbing or interference issues. Test fitting before full installation is highly recommended.
Specifications and Maintenance of Concave Wheels 5x108
Key Specifications to Consider
Concave wheels with a 5x108 bolt pattern are popular for their aesthetic appeal and performance benefits. Understanding the technical specifications is crucial when selecting or upgrading to concave wheels for your vehicle.
Weight and Material Composition
Concave rims in the 5x108 configuration are typically lighter than flat or convex designs due to their sculpted shape and the use of lightweight materials like forged aluminum alloys or even carbon fiber composites.
This weight reduction contributes significantly to improved acceleration, better braking response, and enhanced handling dynamics. Lighter wheels also reduce unsprung mass, which can lead to better suspension performance and increased fuel efficiency.
Load Capacity and Structural Integrity
Each set of 5x108 concave wheels has a defined load capacity that must match or exceed the vehicle's requirements. This rating depends on factors such as wheel construction (cast vs. forged), material thickness, and design reinforcement.
Exceeding the recommended load capacity can compromise safety and accelerate wear on both the wheels and suspension components. Always verify the load rating against your vehicle’s gross axle weight rating (GAWR) before installation.
Offset and Fitment Precision
The offset measurement determines how far the mounting surface sits relative to the wheel's centerline. Proper offset ensures correct positioning within the wheel well, preventing rubbing against fenders or suspension components.
Concave wheels often have negative offsets to create the deep-dish appearance. However, extreme offsets may require modifications like fender rolling or suspension adjustments to achieve proper clearance and maintain safe handling characteristics.
Tire Compatibility and Clearance
Selecting compatible tires is essential for maximizing performance and aesthetics. The tire width must complement the rim dimensions while providing sufficient clearance from suspension parts and bodywork.
Drivers should consider local climate conditions, driving style, and road quality when choosing tire types—whether performance-oriented, all-season, or winter-specific compounds—to ensure optimal grip and durability.
| Specification | Performance Impact | Selection Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | High | Aluminum alloy balances weight and strength; carbon fiber is lighter but more expensive and less impact-resistant |
| Bolt Pattern Accuracy | Very High | Ensure precise 5x108 fitment matching your vehicle hub to avoid vibration and improper mounting |
| Finish Type | Medium | Painted, polished, or wrapped finishes affect maintenance needs and visual longevity |
| Clearance Requirements | High | Check for brake caliper clearance and inner wheel arch spacing, especially with deep concave profiles |
Maintenance Best Practices
Proper care and maintenance of 5x108 concave wheels not only preserves their striking appearance but also ensures long-term reliability and safety:
Important: Never attempt to repair structural damage to concave wheels without professional assistance. Improper repairs can compromise integrity and pose serious safety risks. Always replace damaged wheels as a complete set to maintain balanced performance and aesthetics.
How to Choose Concave Wheels 5x108
Selecting the right concave wheels with a 5x108 bolt pattern requires attention to multiple technical and aesthetic factors to ensure proper fitment, performance, and visual appeal for both retail and customer satisfaction.
Vehicle Fitment & Compatibility
The primary consideration when selecting 5x108 concave wheels is ensuring they are fully compatible with the vehicle’s specifications. The 5x108 bolt pattern (also known as 5x4.25”) is commonly used on various European and American vehicles including Audi, BMW, Ford, and Volvo models. However, minor variations in hub bore size and offset can affect installation and ride quality.
- Verify the exact make, model, and year of the vehicle
- Check the hub bore size to ensure proper centering
- Confirm offset (ET value) matches factory specifications or intended stance
- Determine if spacers or adapters are needed for desired look or clearance
Pro tip: Always test-fit one wheel before purchasing a full set, especially for modified or lifted vehicles.
Style and Aesthetic Appeal
Concave wheels are popular for their deep, aggressive appearance that enhances the overall styling of modern vehicles. Retailers should consider how different finishes and designs complement the car's paint, body lines, and general aesthetic theme.
- Chrome finish adds luxury and shine, ideal for classic or show cars
- Machined faces with polished lips provide a sporty, high-performance look
- Matte black or gloss black wheels suit SUVs and trucks for a rugged appearance
- Custom two-tone or multi-finish wheels offer unique personalization options
Design note: Deep concavity looks best on wide-body or lowered vehicles for maximum visual impact.
Performance Requirements
While concave wheels are primarily chosen for style, performance considerations shouldn’t be overlooked. Especially in regions with challenging weather conditions or for drivers seeking improved handling, it's important to select wheels that support optimal driving dynamics.
- Lightweight forged aluminum offers better acceleration and braking response
- Cast alloy wheels provide a cost-effective option with decent durability
- Winter climates benefit from steel wheels for added strength and corrosion resistance
- High-speed driving demands balanced and aerodynamically optimized designs
Key feature: Look for TÜV, JWL, or VIA certifications for safety and reliability.
Budget and Value Considerations
Retailers must balance product cost with long-term value and customer expectations. While some customers prioritize affordability, others seek premium products with warranties and superior aesthetics.
- Entry-level cast wheels offer budget-friendly options for daily drivers
- Mid-range forged or flow-formed wheels deliver enhanced performance at reasonable prices
- Premium brands include OEM-level finishes and proprietary technology
- Warranty coverage and after-sales support add value for end users
Smart investment: Highlight features like powder coating, corrosion resistance, and weight savings to justify higher price points.
Retailer Insight: When offering 5x108 concave wheels, create bundled packages with tires and installation kits. This simplifies the buying process and increases average order value. Educate customers on the importance of proper torque specs and regular maintenance to avoid issues like vibration or uneven wear.
| Wheel Type | Best For | Material | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Alloy | Budget-conscious buyers | Aluminum Alloy | $100–$250 per wheel |
| Flow-Formed | Performance + value | Spun Aluminum | $250–$450 per wheel |
| Forged | High-performance vehicles | Monoblock Aluminum | $500–$1,500+ per wheel |
| Steel | Winter/industrial use | Carbon Steel | $80–$200 per wheel |
How to DIY and Replace Concave Wheels (5x108 Pattern)
Replacing concave wheels with a 5x108 bolt pattern—commonly used on Ford vehicles—can be a rewarding DIY project for automotive enthusiasts. While it’s always advisable to have a professional mechanic assist with the installation, especially for those unfamiliar with wheel alignment or suspension systems, this guide provides a detailed walkthrough for safely performing the replacement at home.
Safety Warning: Always ensure your vehicle is properly supported before working under it. Use jack stands rated for your vehicle's weight and wear protective gloves and eyewear throughout the process.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Jacks and jack stands rated for your vehicle's weight capacity
- Lug wrench or impact wrench
- Torque wrench calibrated to the manufacturer's specifications
- Wheel chocks
- New concave 5x108 wheels (pre-purchased and verified for compatibility)
- New tires (if not already mounted)
- Penetrating lubricant (for stuck lug nuts)
- Clean cloth or degreaser (to clean hub surface)
DIY Tip: Before purchasing new wheels, verify that they are compatible with your vehicle make, model, year, and braking system. For example, some concave wheels may interfere with larger brake calipers unless specifically designed for such applications.
Step-by-Step Replacement Process
- Park Safely and Prepare the Vehicle
- Park your car on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (or in front if lifting the front axle) to prevent accidental movement.
- Ensure the engine is off and the vehicle is in park (automatic) or first gear (manual).
- Remove Wheel Cover and Loosen Lugs
- If your current wheels have center caps or covers, remove them to access the lug nuts.
- Use a lug wrench to slightly loosen each lug nut while the wheel is still on the ground. Do not remove them yet—just break their tension.
- Lift the Vehicle
- Locate the correct jacking point near the wheel you're replacing (refer to your owner's manual if unsure).
- Raise the vehicle using a floor jack until the wheel clears the ground by a few inches.
- Secure the vehicle by placing jack stands beneath the frame rails or reinforced points.
- Double-check stability before proceeding.
- Remove the Old Wheel
- Now fully remove the lug nuts and keep them in a safe place.
- Gently pull the old wheel straight off the hub assembly. If stuck due to corrosion, lightly tap around the rim with a rubber mallet or use penetrating oil.
- Inspect the wheel hub for rust or debris and clean it thoroughly before installing the new wheel.
- Install the New Concave Wheel
- Align the bolt holes of the new concave 5x108 wheel with the studs on the hub. Make sure it seats flush against the rotor/hub.
- Hand-tighten all lug nuts just enough to hold the wheel securely in place without torquing them yet.
- Lower the Vehicle and Torque Lugs Properly
- Use the jack to slowly lower the vehicle until the tire touches the ground but doesn’t bear full weight.
- Remove the jack stands and continue lowering the vehicle until it sits fully on the ground.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross (star) pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct torque specification—typically between 80–100 ft-lbs for most passenger cars.
- Final Steps
- Replace the wheel cover or center cap if applicable.
- Double-check that all lug nuts are tightened correctly and none were missed.
- Take a short test drive at low speed to ensure everything feels normal and there’s no vibration or noise.
- Recheck the lug nut tightness after driving approximately 50 miles, as vibrations can sometimes cause them to loosen slightly.
| Stage | Key Tasks | Common Mistakes | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Verify wheel compatibility, gather tools, park safely | Choosing incorrect offset/backspacing, skipping safety steps | Owner’s manual, torque specs chart |
| Removal | Loosen lugs on ground, lift vehicle securely | Over-tightening or cross-threading lugs during removal | Lug wrench, floor jack, jack stands |
| Installation | Align wheel, hand-tighten lugs, torque properly | Misalignment causing vibration, uneven torque | Concave wheel, torque wrench |
| Post-Installation | Recheck lugs after driving, inspect for leaks or wobbles | Forgetting to recheck lugs, ignoring unusual noises | Chalk or marker for marking lugs |
Pro Tip: Consider having a wheel alignment performed after replacing wheels, especially if they have different offsets or widths than the originals. This helps maintain optimal handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 5x108 bolt pattern, also known as a 5-lug pattern with a 108mm pitch circle diameter (PCD), is widely used across both domestic and international automotive manufacturers. This versatile bolt pattern is especially popular in vehicles from American brands like Ford, including iconic models such as the Ford Mustang, F-150, and Explorer. It's also found on luxury vehicles like the Jaguar XE and XF, which benefit from its robust design.
Additionally, European automakers such as Audi, Volkswagen, and Volvo have adopted the 5x108 configuration in select models. These include compact sedans, SUVs, and even performance-oriented vehicles where wheel versatility and strength are important. The prevalence of this bolt pattern makes it a great option for drivers looking to upgrade or replace wheels without sacrificing compatibility or style.
Yes, customization options for 5x108 concave wheels are widely available through most reputable suppliers and manufacturers. While standard finishes like silver, black, and gunmetal are common due to their durability and cost-effectiveness, many vendors offer custom color choices to suit personal preferences or match specific vehicle aesthetics.
Popular custom colors include vibrant shades such as red, blue, yellow, and even matte or gloss white. Powder coating is often used for these customizations because it provides a long-lasting, chip-resistant finish that can withstand exposure to road debris, weather conditions, and temperature fluctuations. Some high-end suppliers may also offer multi-tone designs or brushed aluminum effects for added visual appeal.
Ensuring proper fitment of 5x108 wheels involves several critical steps to guarantee safety, performance, and longevity. Here's a detailed checklist:
- Bolt Pattern Match: Confirm that the wheel has exactly a 5x108 bolt pattern to align perfectly with your vehicle’s hub.
- Wheel Size Compatibility: Check the rim diameter, width, and tire size against your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications to ensure optimal handling and clearance.
- Hub Centric Fitment: Make sure the center bore of the wheel matches your vehicle’s hub size for precise alignment and vibration-free performance.
- Clearance Testing: Verify that the wheel clears all suspension components, brake calipers, and bodywork when mounted and turned lock-to-lock.
- Offset and Backspacing: Ensure the offset (distance from the mounting surface to the wheel’s centerline) and backspacing (distance from the mounting surface to the inner edge of the wheel) are appropriate for your vehicle to prevent rubbing or improper track alignment.
- Load Rating: Choose a wheel with a load rating equal to or greater than the original equipment specification to maintain safety and structural integrity.
Following these guidelines ensures that your 5x108 wheels will provide a secure and functional fit while enhancing your vehicle’s appearance.
Concave wheels with a 5x108 bolt pattern can work well for certain types of off-road vehicles, but they're not universally ideal for all rugged environments. Their deep dish design and exposed outer edges make them more susceptible to damage from rocks, debris, and trail hazards, especially during extreme off-road activities like rock crawling, mud bogging, or desert racing.
However, for light-duty off-road use—such as driving on gravel roads, occasional dirt trails, or urban SUV adventures—concave 5x108 wheels can perform adequately while offering a striking aesthetic. Many modern concave wheels are constructed from durable materials like forged aluminum or reinforced alloys, which help improve their resilience.
If your vehicle is primarily used for serious off-road applications, it's generally recommended to choose flat-face or semi-flat wheels designed specifically for rugged terrain. These styles tend to be more resistant to bending and offer better protection for the brake system and suspension components.
Wheel offset plays a crucial role in determining both the visual appeal and mechanical functionality of concave wheels. Offset refers to the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and its true centerline, measured in millimeters. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the front of the wheel (toward the vehicle), while a negative offset places it toward the rear.
In concave wheels, a larger positive offset is often preferred because it positions the wheel deeper within the wheel arch, creating a more dramatic concave effect. This not only enhances styling but can also improve aerodynamics by smoothing airflow around the wheel assembly.
From a mechanical standpoint, proper offset affects:
- Handling and Stability: Correct offset helps maintain optimal steering geometry and reduces strain on suspension components.
- Clearance: Improper offset can cause the wheel to rub against fenders, brake components, or suspension parts, especially during turns or over bumps.
- Tire Wear: Misaligned offset may lead to uneven tire wear and reduced traction.
- Vehicle Dynamics: The right offset contributes to balanced weight distribution and responsive cornering behavior.
Selecting a 5x108 concave wheel with the correct offset ensures a perfect blend of form and function, giving your vehicle a stylish look without compromising performance or safety.