Expert: Mike Evans - 8/27/2009

Question
I would like to replace the factory 17" wheels from my 2006 Mercury Mountaineer to a more attractive set.  Which other Ford model wheels (17" or 18") are interchangeable?  (18" wheels were also available on my car) Thanks

Answer
    All of the Ford wheels, except for the big pickups, use the same bolt pattern: 5 bolts in a 4-1/2" circle.  The problem with swapping wheels around is the offset (the spacing behind the wheel).  You could go to any decent tire or speed shop and buy new wheels for this car.  They make them all the way up to 20" or maybe more.  If you are planning on buying used OEM rims, then anything off of a Ranger or Explorer will work.  I'd even be willing to bet you could go as low as 15" although I couldn't be sure with a truck that new.  If you are planning on buying used rims at a salvage yard, just tell them what you're putting them on and they will make sure that what you get will fit.  If you really want a different look, then you need to go to aftermarket custom rims from a tire store.  If you go on Tire Rack's website you will see that there are lots of choices.  Of course, if you change wheels you are going to need new tires.  The bigger the wheel, the more expensive the tire.  Going to 20" wheels and tires ("dubs" as they're called) will probably cost around $1500.