2009 Acura RDX Wheel Interchange

tl;dr

For a 2009 Acura RDX, stick close to factory specs and verify changes with the on-page calculator before buying. Core specs: 5x114.3 bolt pattern, 64.1 mm center bore, M12x1.5 threads, 18x7.5 ET45 wheels, 235/55R18 tires. Use hub-centric rings if your wheel bore is larger than 64.1. Keep tire diameter near stock to avoid rub and speedometer error.

Recommendation

Stay within a near-OEM fitment envelope and validate every change. Match bolt pattern exactly. Use wheels with a 64.1 mm bore or larger. Larger bores require hub-centric rings. Keep offset and width changes modest, then check inner and outer clearances with the calculator. Maintain overall tire diameter close to stock when upsizing or downsizing rims.

How to use the wheelinterchange.com calculator efficiently:

• Set Installed on (your vehicle) to 2009 Acura RDX with the OEM size above.
• Pick Wheels from (donor vehicle) or enter Custom wheel size and Custom tire size.
• Adjust rim width and offset to visualize inner strut and outer fender changes.
• Change rim diameter only after pairing a tire size that keeps overall diameter close.
• Review brake clearance, scrub change, and speedometer impact shown by the tool.

Hardware guidance: confirm M12x1.5 thread and the correct lug seat for your wheels. Many aftermarket wheels use conical seats, but confirm with the wheel maker. If using spacers, verify stud length and engagement. When in doubt, compare against OEM parts and Acura service data.

Impact

• Offset and width shift inner barrel clearance to struts and knuckles.
• Outer position changes fender and liner clearance on compression and steer.
• Tire diameter affects speedometer, ABS thresholds, and gearing feel.
• Heavier wheels increase stopping distances and ride harshness.
• Centering quality (hub-centric vs lug-centric) impacts vibration at speed.
• Lug seat mismatch reduces clamping and can loosen over time.

Risks

• Wrong bolt pattern or center bore causes unsafe mounting. The RDX needs 5x114.3 and 64.1 mm hub or rings.
• Too-low offset can cause fender rub and bearing load increase.
• Too-high offset can hit the strut, spring perch, or control arm.
• Oversize tire diameter can rub at full lock or over bumps.
• Undersize tire diameter skews speed readings and reduces brake clearance.
• Incorrect lug seat type or insufficient thread engagement risks fastener failure.
• Skipping hub-centric rings on larger-bore wheels invites highway vibration.
• TPMS considerations: sensors may need transfer or compatible replacements to retain warnings.

Next actions

• Baseline: confirm your current wheel and tire sizes on the door-jamb label and wheel stamps.
• Calculator pass 1: set OEM as Installed on (your vehicle). Enter your candidate wheel width, offset, and tire size under Custom.
• Check clearances: ensure inner and outer movements shown are acceptable for brakes, struts, and fenders.
• Match the basics: 5x114.3 bolt pattern, M12x1.5 threads, 64.1 mm hub or hub-centric rings.
• Seat type: verify cone, ball, or mag-seat requirement with the wheel manufacturer before buying lugs.
• Brake test: if possible, test-fit a single front wheel. Spin by hand and turn lock-to-lock to watch for interference.
• Torque correctly using a calibrated wrench. Re-torque after 50–100 miles. Find a 1/2 inch torque wrench.
• Use rings if the wheel bore is larger than 64.1 mm. Measure the wheel bore and select the right outer size. Browse hub-centric rings 64.1 mm ID.
• Clean and chase threads before install for accurate torque. Search M12x1.5 thread chaser.
• Measure precisely if specs are unclear. A caliper helps verify bores and ring sizes. See digital calipers.
• Final check: road test at varying speeds, then recheck torque and look for witness marks inside the arch.

If any spec on your RDX seems different by trim or market, confirm with the owner’s manual, dealer parts catalog, or the calculator results on wheelinterchange.com before purchase.