Mazda's hubcentric approach and my costco steelies which are lug centric... questions

[triplehelix]

I've read elsewhere that the costco steelies would not work for mazda 3's since they use a hub-centric approach and the rim is lug-centric.

People are suggesting returning them to costco for a full refund, but I am not quite convinced that they wont work, as are other people. There was talk of using spacers or whatever but some people said it still wouldn't work.

I figured I would ask here where people would know for sure!

Anyone using costco steelies on their 3? Should I be worried about using them on mine?

I was planning on installing them myself with my father-in-law, should I be looking out for something when installing them? If I need spacers, could anyone suggest good ones to get?

Thanks in advance!

[midnightfxgt]

Hub Centric is always a better way to go.....

However, lots of people use lug-centric wheels with no issues (you will not harm your car). Costco, Canadian Tire, Active Green and Ross etc, rely on Lug centric so that they do not need to stock a ton of different part numbers.

-John

[triplehelix]

Thanks midnight.

Would these places do anything special when installing these rims on a 3 like using centering rings or using different lugs? And since I was planning on doing the install myself, should I do something special to ensure these will perform ok with little to no vibration?

[midnightfxgt]

No rings on steel..... and stock lugs work fine.

Make sure to tighten in a star pattern like usual :) If they are just brand new rims with no tires on them, and you want hubcentric, I am sure I can sell you a set cheaper than Costco :)

-John

[triplehelix]

I bought them along with some XIce2's and they mounted them already.

40$ per wheel was something other places couldn't beat and I am in Ottawa, so I can't get in on those good deals you people get all the time!

Thanks for the info midnight, you have put my mind at ease.

[midnightfxgt]

No Problem :)

[PearlM3]

I bought Costco steelies last year before I was active on this board, and had no idea the difference between hub-centric, and lug-centric. Ran them from mid october last year until March. Not a problem at all.

[condor888000]

I've used Costco steelies since the fall of '06 with no issues. Just be sure to tighten them in a cross pattern and they'll center themselves fine.

[triplehelix]

Thanks condor!

[triplehelix]

And Pearl :)