Aftermarket Wheels

[2Hondas]

I found this on Edmunds townhall-talk forum. I haven't checked the manual yet, but how true is this? Is there any way to get specifications on aftermarket wheels to make sure they are of the proper strength to replace the OEM steel wheels. I was thinking about getting some new wheels, but if that causes problems with warranty claims in case I need it, I would have to re-think aftermarket wheels.

Non-Honda wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components and will not be compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system.

Larger or smaller wheels can interfere with the operation of your vehicles antilock brakes and other systems.

Modifying your steering wheel or any other part of your vehicle’s safety system could make the systems ineffective.

The Ridgeline’s tires and wheels were specifically designed to meet the load rating, handling, and crash performance of this vehicle. Any aftermarket wheel will not meet the strength requirements these wheels have been subjected to. Therefore it is an exceedingly bad idea to replace them with ANYTHING other than the Honda accessory wheel. Additionally, you should be aware making this type of modification voids any warranty claim relating to the suspension, brakes or drive train. Proceed with caution.

[Directman]

Check out the tire rack great site and good information.

[MrAC1980]

Oh this is going to start a long war and debate so let me be the first..

The previously stated is only the manufacturer's way to cover there arse. It doesn't mean crap in the real world of aftermarket parts and accessories. I'll be damned if I pay top dollar for Honda accessories when many times aftermarket items look and function much better than any honda accessory. No offense to anyone, but I love the guys/girls that drive around with every honda oem accessory and thinks there truck is hot ****. When given the opportunity they wouldn't know even where to start on installing any of it or using it to its potential.

[the dude]

Thats a crock of $hit! Those factory wheels suck and are heavy as hell. For the price of the RL, it should come with forged lightweight aluminum wheels that reduce unsprung weight and improve mileage/performance.

[2Hondas]

I pulled my manual out, and sure enough around page 180, there is a statement that aftermarket wheels could cause suspension problems and TPMS operation problems.
I guess my real question is, is there any data that could be used to compare the strength of different types of wheels. I've never seen anything like this, but there has to be something. Any one have any ideas or seen any data to compare different wheels to see if some have more strength than others?
I believe I might send a few e-mails to different wheel manufacturers and see what they think about the Honda statment from the manual, and try and get some feed-back.

[DogBoneRTL]

I wouldnt think strength is as important as weight when we're talking about a wheel having negative effect on suspension and handling. Less rotational weight is usually a good thing though. But, if that's the case then different tires would also have a negative effect on suspension as tires can have a wide varience of weight as well.

[spun07RTX]

Originally Posted by MrAC1980

Oh this is going to start a long war and debate so let me be the first..

The previously stated is only the manufacturer's way to cover there arse.

I agree, as long as the aftermarket wheels are DOT approved(which they have to be to even exist)

that quote out of the honda manual = anus protectus.

forged wheels are the strongest its nice when the say "rays engineering...

[ONDLINKS]

I have 18" OZ wheels and Goodyear tires purchased from ROC sponser Tire Rack. I was unaware there could be a issue with warranty on the truck running something other than OEM. I was careful to make sure the OZ/Goodyear setup was compatable with the RL. I checked the wheel constuction http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/tech/....jsp?techid=90 and came away satisfied they would see me thru until my warranty expires. In the mean time If a problem developes with the brakes, suspension or drivetrain, I'll put the stockers back on and then take it to the dealer.

This "all you can use is OEM" sounds bogus.