17 Inch Jeep Rims For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Upgrading Your Ride

17 Inch Jeep Rims For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Upgrading Your Ride jeeps.truckstrend.com

For any Jeep enthusiast, the wheels are more than just a component; they are a statement. They dictate performance, influence aesthetics, and are crucial for both on-road comfort and off-road prowess. Among the myriad of options available, 17 inch Jeep rims for sale stand out as a sweet spot, offering an optimal balance that appeals to a vast majority of Jeep owners. Whether you’re tackling rocky trails, cruising the highway, or simply aiming for a more aggressive stance, 17-inch wheels provide the versatility and performance characteristics many seek. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about selecting, purchasing, and maintaining the perfect 17-inch rims for your beloved Jeep.

Why Choose 17-Inch Rims for Your Jeep? The Ideal Balance

17 Inch Jeep Rims For Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Upgrading Your Ride

The decision to opt for 17 inch Jeep rims for sale is often a strategic one, driven by a combination of practical benefits and aesthetic appeal. This size has become incredibly popular for several compelling reasons:

• Optimal Tire Sidewall: A 17-inch rim allows for a substantial tire sidewall, which is crucial for off-roading. A taller sidewall provides more cushioning against impacts, protects the rim from damage, and allows for greater air-down capability. Airing down tires increases the contact patch, improving traction on challenging terrains like sand, rocks, or mud.
• Versatile Tire Selection: The 17-inch wheel market boasts an unparalleled variety of tire options. From aggressive mud-terrains (MTs) and versatile all-terrains (ATs) to comfortable highway tires, you’ll find an extensive range of sizes, tread patterns, and load ratings to suit any driving condition or personal preference. This wide availability often translates to more competitive pricing for tires.
• Balanced Performance: For many Jeep owners, their vehicle serves as both a daily driver and an off-road warrior. 17-inch rims strike an excellent balance, offering good on-road manners (less road noise, better handling than very large rims) while still providing robust off-road capability.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Aesthetically, 17-inch rims often fill the wheel wells of modern Jeeps (like the JK, JL, and JT) perfectly, providing a substantial and aggressive look without appearing disproportionately large or small.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Generally, 17-inch tires and rims tend to be more affordable than their 18-inch or 20-inch counterparts, offering a significant saving without compromising performance or style.

Key Considerations Before Buying 17-Inch Jeep Rims

Before you dive into the vast selection of 17 inch Jeep rims for sale, it’s crucial to understand the technical specifications that ensure compatibility and optimal performance for your specific Jeep model.

1. Bolt Pattern: This is non-negotiable. Your new rims must match your Jeep’s bolt pattern.

   

   • 5×4.5 (5×114.3mm): Common for older Jeeps like TJ Wranglers, XJ Cherokees, YJ Wranglers, and ZJ Grand Cherokees.
   • 5×5 (5x127mm): Standard for newer Jeeps, including JK, JL, and Gladiator JT Wranglers, and WK/WK2 Grand Cherokees.
   • 5×5.5 (5×139.7mm): Found on some very old CJs.
   • Always double-check your specific model year.

   

2. Backspacing and Offset: These are critical for proper fitment, tire clearance, and achieving your desired stance.

   • Offset: The distance from the wheel’s mounting surface to the true centerline of the wheel. A positive offset means the mounting surface is towards the outside of the wheel, pulling the wheel inward. A negative offset pushes the wheel outward.
   • Backspacing: The distance from the mounting surface to the back edge of the wheel. Lower backspacing pushes the wheel further out from the vehicle.
   • For most lifted JKs, JLs, and JTs running larger tires (e.g., 35 inches), a backspacing of around 4.5 inches (or an equivalent negative offset) is commonly recommended to prevent rubbing on suspension components.

3. Material and Construction:

   • Cast Aluminum Alloy: The most common type. Lighter than steel, better heat dissipation, and available in countless styles. Good for everyday use and moderate off-roading.
   • Forged Aluminum Alloy: Stronger and lighter than cast wheels, made by pressing a solid block of aluminum. More expensive, often found in high-performance or racing applications.
   • Steel Wheels: Heavier and less stylish than alloy, but incredibly durable and often cheaper. They can withstand significant abuse and are popular for dedicated off-road vehicles or budget builds.

4. Finish and Style: This is where personal preference comes in. Common finishes include:

   • Matte Black/Satin Black: Extremely popular for a rugged, aggressive look.
   • Machined/Polished: Offers a classic, shiny appearance.
   • Chrome: A more luxurious, reflective finish.
   • Beadlock-Capable vs. True Beadlock: Beadlock-capable wheels mimic the look of beadlocks but don’t function as true beadlocks. True beadlock wheels mechanically clamp the tire bead to the rim, allowing for extremely low tire pressures off-road without the tire separating from the wheel. True beadlocks are often not DOT-approved for street use.

5. Load Rating: Ensure the load rating of the rims meets or exceeds your Jeep’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), especially if you carry heavy loads or frequently go off-roading.

Types and Styles of 17-Inch Jeep Rims

The market for 17 inch Jeep rims for sale is incredibly diverse, catering to every taste and functional requirement. Here’s a look at some popular categories and brands:

• Classic Off-Road Styles: Many rims feature a timeless multi-spoke or modular design, often in black or gunmetal, designed for rugged appeal and durability. Brands like Pro Comp, American Racing, and Dick Cepek offer iconic designs.
• Modern Aggressive Designs: These rims often incorporate unique spoke patterns, deeper concave profiles, and more intricate finishes. Fuel Off-Road, Black Rhino, and KMC are known for their cutting-edge designs.
• Performance-Oriented Rims: Designed with weight savings and strength in mind, often featuring clean lines and functional aesthetics. Method Race Wheels and Icon Vehicle Dynamics are prominent in this segment.
• OEM-Style and Aftermarket Replicas: If you like the factory look but want a different finish or slightly different dimensions, many companies offer rims that closely resemble original equipment.
• Beadlock and Beadlock-Capable Rims: As mentioned, these are specialized for extreme off-roading, allowing users to run very low tire pressures for maximum traction. Brands like Method and Raceline offer true beadlocks, while many others provide beadlock-capable designs.

Where to Find 17-Inch Jeep Rims For Sale

The accessibility of 17 inch Jeep rims for sale has never been greater. You have several avenues to explore:

• Online Retailers: The largest selection and often the most competitive pricing. Websites like Quadratec, ExtremeTerrain, 4 Wheel Parts, Summit Racing, and Amazon offer extensive filters to find the exact rims you need. Be sure to check return policies and shipping costs.
• Local Off-Road Shops: These establishments offer the advantage of expert advice, the ability to see rims in person, and often provide professional installation services. They can also help with tire mounting and balancing.
• Dealerships: While typically more expensive, dealerships can provide genuine Mopar accessories and OEM-style rims that guarantee fitment and often come with a warranty.
• Used Market: Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Jeep-specific forums are great places to find used rims. You can often score significant deals, but inspect them carefully for bends, cracks, or excessive damage before purchasing.

Tips for a Successful Purchase and Installation

Once you’ve identified the perfect 17 inch Jeep rims for sale, here are some practical tips for a smooth transaction and installation:

• Verify Compatibility: Triple-check the bolt pattern, backspacing, and offset against your Jeep model and any lift kit you may have installed. Use online fitment guides or consult with experts.
• Read Reviews: Look for customer reviews regarding the specific rim model, especially concerning durability, finish quality, and fitment issues.
• Consider a Wheel and Tire Package: Many retailers offer bundled deals where you can buy rims and tires together. This often saves money on both components and mounting/balancing services.
• Don’t Forget TPMS Sensors: If your Jeep is a 2007 or newer model, it likely has Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors. You’ll either need to transfer your existing sensors to the new rims or purchase new compatible ones.
• Lug Nuts: Aftermarket rims often require specific types of lug nuts (e.g., spline drive or conical seat). Your OEM lug nuts might not be compatible.
• Professional Installation: While some DIY enthusiasts might tackle the job, professional mounting, balancing, and alignment are highly recommended to ensure safety and optimal performance.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your new rims clean, especially if they have a specialized finish. Regularly check lug nut torque, particularly after the first 50-100 miles of driving.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Even with careful planning, you might encounter some challenges when acquiring and installing 17 inch Jeep rims for sale:

• Tire Rubbing: This is the most common issue, usually due to incorrect backspacing/offset, oversized tires, or insufficient lift.
  • Solution: Adjust backspacing (with spacers, though often not ideal), install a lift kit, trim fenders, or select a smaller tire size.
• TPMS Malfunctions: New sensors may need programming, or old ones might get damaged during transfer.
  • Solution: Ensure new sensors are compatible and properly programmed by a tire shop.
• Balancing Issues: Some aggressive off-road tires can be challenging to balance perfectly.
  • Solution: Request dynamic balancing, or consider using balancing beads inside the tire.
• Shipping Damage: Rims can get damaged in transit.
  • Solution: Inspect packages immediately upon arrival. Document any damage with photos and contact the seller/shipper promptly.

17 Inch Jeep Rims Estimated Price Guide

The price of 17 inch Jeep rims for sale can vary widely based on material, brand, finish, and style. This table provides a general estimate per rim.

Rim Style/Type	Material	Common Finish	Estimated Price Range (Per Rim)	Key Features/Notes
Basic Steel Wheel	Steel	Black (Powder Coat)	$70 – $120	Durable, heavy, budget-friendly, often for utility.
Entry-Level Cast Alloy	Cast Aluminum	Black, Silver	$120 – $180	Lightweight, good aesthetic upgrade, basic designs.
Mid-Range Cast Alloy	Cast Aluminum	Matte Black, Machined	$180 – $280	Popular brands, diverse styles, durable finishes.
Beadlock-Capable Alloy	Cast Aluminum	Various	$250 – $400	Aggressive look, often stronger build, not true beadlock.
Premium Cast Alloy	Cast Aluminum	Custom Finishes	$300 – $500+	High-end brands (e.g., Method, Fuel), unique designs.
True Beadlock Wheel	Forged/Cast Aluminum	Various	$450 – $800+	Extreme off-road performance, often not street legal.
Forged Aluminum Alloy	Forged Aluminum	Various	$600 – $1000+	Strongest, lightest, highest performance, premium price.

Note: Prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on sales, specific models, and retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 17 Inch Jeep Rims

Q1: Will 17-inch rims fit my specific Jeep model?
A1: Most likely, yes, especially for JK, JL, and JT Wranglers. However, compatibility depends on your Jeep’s bolt pattern and brake caliper clearance. Always confirm your Jeep’s bolt pattern (e.g., 5×5 for JK/JL) and check the rim’s specifications for backspacing and offset to ensure proper clearance with your suspension and brakes.

Q2: What is the ideal backspacing for 17-inch Jeep rims on a lifted Jeep?
A2: For Jeeps with a lift and larger tires (e.g., 35-inch+), a backspacing of around 4.5 inches (or less) is commonly recommended for 17-inch rims. This pushes the wheel out slightly, providing clearance for wider tires and preventing rubbing on suspension components.

Q3: Can I use my stock lug nuts with new 17-inch aftermarket rims?
A3: Possibly, but it’s not recommended without verification. Aftermarket rims often require different lug nuts (e.g., conical seat, spline drive) than OEM ones to ensure proper seating and safety. It’s best to purchase new lug nuts that are specifically designed for your chosen aftermarket rims.

Q4: Are true beadlock 17-inch Jeep rims street legal?
A4: Generally, true beadlock wheels are not DOT (Department of Transportation) approved for street use in many regions due to safety regulations. They are primarily designed for off-road use where tires are aired down to very low pressures. "Beadlock-capable" wheels, which look similar but don’t have the functional beadlock ring, are street legal. Always check local regulations.

Q5: Will changing to 17-inch rims affect my speedometer?
A5: Changing the rim size itself won’t affect your speedometer directly. However, if changing to 17-inch rims means you also change the overall diameter of your tires (which is common when upgrading), then your speedometer will read inaccurately. This can usually be corrected with a calibration tool (e.g., AEV ProCal, JScan).

Q6: Should I buy new or used 17-inch Jeep rims?
A6: New rims offer peace of mind with warranties and no prior damage. Used rims can save you money, but require careful inspection for bends, cracks, deep scratches, or other structural damage that could compromise safety or performance.

Conclusion

The journey to finding the perfect 17 inch Jeep rims for sale is an exciting one, opening up a world of possibilities for customizing your vehicle’s performance and appearance. By understanding the critical factors like bolt pattern, backspacing, material, and style, you can make an informed decision that perfectly complements your Jeep and your driving habits. With the right set of 17-inch rims, your Jeep will not only look the part but also deliver enhanced capability and a more enjoyable driving experience, whether you’re navigating urban jungles or conquering rugged wilderness. Invest wisely, and prepare to elevate your Jeep adventure.