So, you're looking to upgrade the wheels on your 2013 Honda Accord, huh? That's awesome! A new set of wheels can totally transform the look of your ride. But before you go swiping that credit card, it's super important to understand wheel fitment. Getting it wrong can lead to rubbing, poor handling, and even damage to your car. Don't worry, though, I'm here to guide you through the process and make sure you get the perfect fit for your Accord.

Understanding Wheel Fitment Basics

Let's break down the key terms you need to know when considering wheel fitment for your 2013 Honda Accord. Understanding these terms is crucial; otherwise, you might end up with wheels that don't fit properly or cause issues down the road. So, pay close attention, guys!

Wheel Diameter

The wheel diameter is the overall size of the wheel, measured in inches. For the 2013 Honda Accord, the stock wheel diameters typically range from 16 to 18 inches, depending on the trim level. When choosing a new wheel diameter, consider the following:

• Aesthetics: Larger diameter wheels can give your Accord a more aggressive, sporty look. However, keep in mind that larger wheels often require lower profile tires, which can affect ride comfort.
• Tire Availability: Ensure that the tire size you want is available for the wheel diameter you choose. Some less common wheel diameters may have limited tire options.
• Brake Clearance: If you plan to upgrade your brakes in the future, make sure the wheel diameter you choose will clear the larger brake calipers. This is particularly important for those looking at performance upgrades.

Wheel Width

The wheel width is the measurement of the wheel from one inner edge to the other, also measured in inches. The wheel width affects the tire's profile and how it sits on the wheel. For the 2013 Honda Accord, it's essential to stay within a reasonable range to avoid rubbing issues. Consider these points:

• Tire Size Compatibility: Check the tire manufacturer's recommendations for the acceptable wheel width range for your chosen tire size. This information is usually available on the manufacturer's website or in tire specification charts. Ignoring these recommendations can lead to unsafe tire performance.
• Fender Clearance: Wider wheels may extend further outward, potentially causing rubbing against the fenders, especially when turning or going over bumps. It may be necessary to roll your fenders or choose a different offset to avoid this. A rolled fender involves modifying the inner lip of the fender to provide more clearance.
• Suspension Clearance: Ensure that the wheel width doesn't interfere with the suspension components, such as the struts or control arms. This is particularly important if you have aftermarket suspension modifications.

Wheel Offset

The wheel offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline, measured in millimeters. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, while a negative offset means it's closer to the inside. The offset dramatically affects how the wheel sits within the wheel well.

• Positive Offset: The stock offset for the 2013 Honda Accord is typically in the range of +45 to +55mm. A higher positive offset will tuck the wheel further inside the fender.
• Negative Offset: A lower or negative offset will push the wheel further outward, giving your car a wider stance. However, be cautious, as a negative offset can increase the risk of rubbing against the fenders.
• Zero Offset: A zero offset means the mounting surface is exactly in line with the centerline of the wheel.

Bolt Pattern

The bolt pattern is the number and spacing of the wheel's bolt holes. The 2013 Honda Accord has a 5x114.3mm bolt pattern. This means there are five bolt holes spaced 114.3mm apart. It's absolutely crucial to match the bolt pattern to your car; otherwise, the wheel won't fit at all. Don't even try to force it!

• Matching the Bolt Pattern: Always double-check that the wheels you're considering have the correct bolt pattern for your vehicle. Using the wrong bolt pattern can be extremely dangerous.
• Adapters: While adapters are available to change the bolt pattern, they are generally not recommended for safety reasons. It's always best to stick with wheels that have the correct bolt pattern.

Center Bore

The center bore is the diameter of the hole in the center of the wheel that centers it on the hub. The 2013 Honda Accord has a center bore of 64.1mm. If the center bore of the wheel is larger than the hub, you'll need hub-centric rings to ensure proper centering and prevent vibrations. These rings fill the gap between the hub and the wheel, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

Recommended Wheel and Tire Sizes for 2013 Honda Accord

Okay, so now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about some specific wheel and tire sizes that will work well on your 2013 Honda Accord. Keep in mind that these are just suggestions, and the best fit for you will depend on your personal preferences and driving style.

Stock Wheel and Tire Sizes

• LX, Sport: 16x6.5 inches with 205/65R16 tires
• EX, EX-L: 17x7.5 inches with 215/55R17 tires
• Touring: 18x8 inches with 235/45R18 tires

Plus Sizing

Plus sizing involves increasing the wheel diameter while decreasing the tire sidewall height to maintain a similar overall tire diameter. This can improve handling and give your car a more aggressive look.

• Plus One: 18x8 inches with 235/45R18 tires
• Plus Two: 19x8.5 inches with 235/40R19 tires

Considerations for Plus Sizing:

• Ride Comfort: Lower profile tires can result in a harsher ride, as there is less sidewall to absorb bumps.
• Wheel Weight: Larger wheels can be heavier, which can negatively impact acceleration and fuel economy.
• Fender Clearance: Ensure that the larger wheels and tires don't rub against the fenders, especially when turning or going over bumps.

How to Measure Your Car's Wheel Fitment

If you're feeling adventurous and want to get a precise measurement of your car's wheel fitment, you can use a few simple tools and techniques. This can be helpful if you're planning a custom wheel setup or want to maximize fender clearance.

Tools You'll Need:

• Measuring Tape or Ruler: To measure distances accurately.
• Straight Edge: To create a reference plane for measuring offset.
• Level: To ensure your measurements are accurate.
• Wheel Fitment Gauge (Optional): A specialized tool for measuring wheel offset and backspacing.

Measuring Wheel Offset:

1. Remove the Wheel: Safely jack up your car and remove the wheel.
2. Place the Straight Edge: Place the straight edge across the back of the wheel, resting on the wheel's edges.
3. Measure the Distance: Measure the distance from the straight edge to the wheel's mounting surface. This is the backspacing.
4. Calculate the Offset: Subtract half of the wheel's width from the backspacing. The result is the wheel offset.

Measuring Fender Clearance:

1. Turn the Steering Wheel: Turn the steering wheel to full lock in both directions to check for clearance at different angles.
2. Measure the Distance: Measure the distance between the tire and the fender at various points.
3. Evaluate the Results: Use these measurements to determine how much room you have for wider wheels or tires.

Potential Problems and Solutions

Even with careful planning, you might encounter some issues when fitting new wheels to your 2013 Honda Accord. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Rubbing

• Problem: The tires rub against the fenders, especially when turning or going over bumps.
• Solutions:
  • Roll Your Fenders: Modify the inner lip of the fenders to provide more clearance.
  • Choose a Different Offset: Select wheels with a higher offset to tuck them further inside the fenders.
  • Use a Narrower Tire: Install narrower tires to reduce the overall width.
  • Raise Your Suspension: Increase the ride height to provide more clearance.

Vibration

• Problem: The car vibrates, especially at higher speeds.
• Solutions:
  • Balance Your Wheels: Have your wheels professionally balanced to ensure even weight distribution.
  • Use Hub-Centric Rings: Install hub-centric rings to properly center the wheels on the hubs.
  • Check for Bent Wheels: Inspect your wheels for any signs of damage or bending.

Brake Clearance Issues

• Problem: The wheels don't clear the brake calipers.
• Solutions:
  • Use Wheel Spacers: Install wheel spacers to push the wheels further outward, providing more clearance. However, use spacers with caution, as they can affect handling and put additional stress on the wheel bearings.
  • Choose a Different Wheel Design: Select wheels with a different spoke design that provides more caliper clearance.

Where to Buy Wheels and Tires

Alright, so you've done your research and you know exactly what you want. Now, where do you actually buy these wheels and tires? Here are a few options:

• Local Tire Shops: Local tire shops can provide expert advice and installation services. They often have a wide selection of wheels and tires to choose from, and they can help you find the perfect fit for your 2013 Honda Accord.
• Online Retailers: Online retailers offer a vast selection of wheels and tires at competitive prices. However, you'll need to be comfortable with measuring and installing the wheels yourself, or you'll need to find a local shop to do it for you.
• Online Marketplaces: Marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can be a great place to find used wheels and tires at a discounted price. However, be sure to inspect the wheels carefully for any signs of damage before you buy them.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect wheel fitment for your 2013 Honda Accord can seem daunting, but with a little research and planning, it's totally achievable. Just remember to consider all the factors we've discussed, and don't be afraid to ask for help from a professional. With the right wheels, your Accord will look and handle better than ever! So go ahead, give your ride the upgrade it deserves!