Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible (2005) Wheel Fitment
Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible (2005): 5x100 bolt pattern, 57.1mm center bore. Factory wheels: 16x6J. Reference fitment ranges.
Wheel Size & Offset at a Glance
| Configuration | Wheel Size & Offset |
|---|---|
| Factory (OE) | 16x6J at ET40 |
| Flush Fitment | 17x7J at ET35 offset |
| Maximum Aggressive | 18x7.5J at ET32 offset |
How to Read Wheel Offset & Measurements
Use these two references before ordering: the left diagram shows where each spec (PCD, center bore, offset, width and diameter) is measured on the wheel; the right diagram shows how positive, zero and negative offset shift the wheel face relative to the hub centerline.
Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible OE Wheel Specs
The 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible (Convertible) uses a 5x100 bolt pattern with a 57.1mm center bore. Factory wheels are 16x6J at ET40.
Why the factory spec works for most owners:
- Matches the chassis tuning used to help offset reduced structural rigidity
- Balances ride comfort with the sportier character typical of this body style
- Keeps unsprung weight low for stable handling
- Maintains clearance for the factory brake package and suspension components
Flush Fitment
For a flush look with minimal rubbing, 17x7J ET35 is the recommended starting point on a stock or mildly lowered Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible.
Maximum Aggressive Fitment
18x7.5J ET32 is a more aggressive reference setup. Beyond this, expect rubbing under compression without fender rolling or camber correction.
Real-World Fitment Notes
H&R Sport springs; 17x7.0J ET35 ENKEI RPF1 wheels; standard brakes; Michelin Pilot Sport 3 205/45 R17 tires.
5-Tier Configuration Options
A Factory-Style 16x6.0J ET40
Recommended setup: 16x6.0J ET40 | Economy impact: Negligible | Best for: Daily commuting, family use
Appearance: 7/10 | Comfort: 9.5/10 | Install difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Estimated cost: $450-800 (wheels + tires + install)
B Comfortable Upgrade 17x6.5J ET38
Recommended setup: 17x6.5J ET38 | Economy impact: -2 to -4% | Best for: Daily / street
Appearance: 8/10 | Comfort: 9/10 | Install difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Estimated cost: $1,950-2,550 (wheels + tires + install)
C Balanced / Flush Fit 17x7.0J ET35
Recommended setup: 17x7.0J ET35 | Economy impact: -4 to -6% | Best for: Street
Appearance: 8.5/10 | Comfort: 8/10 | Install difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
Estimated cost: $2,600-3,400 (wheels + tires + install)
D Aggressive 18x7.5J ET34
Recommended setup: 18x7.5J ET34 | Economy impact: -6 to -9% | Best for: Show / occasional track
Appearance: 9/10 | Comfort: 6.5/10 | Install difficulty: ★★★☆☆
Estimated cost: $3,900-5,000 (wheels + tires + install)
E Max Aggressive 18x7.5J ET32
Recommended setup: 18x7.5J ET32 | Economy impact: -8 to -12% | Best for: Show only
Appearance: 9.5/10 | Comfort: 4/10 | Install difficulty: ★★★★☆
Estimated cost: $4,800-6,200+ (wheels + tires + install)
Performance Comparison Matrix
| Metric | Tier A | Tier B | Tier C | Tier D | Tier E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheel Spec | 16x6.0J ET40 | 17x6.5J ET38 | 17x7.0J ET35 | 18x7.5J ET34 | 18x7.5J ET32 |
| Economy Impact | Negligible | -2 to -4% | -4 to -6% | -6 to -9% | -8 to -12% |
| Appearance | 7/10 | 8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Comfort | 9.5/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 6.5/10 | 4/10 |
| Install Difficulty | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Cost Range | $450-800 | $1,950-2,550 | $2,600-3,400 | $3,900-5,000 | $4,800-6,200+ |
| Best For | Daily commuting, family use | Daily / street | Street | Show / occasional track | Show only |
Real-World Reference Cases
The examples below are compiled from typical ANKUSI customer configurations and are labeled as reference cases, not individually verified real-world builds.
Case 1: Daily Driver (Factory-Style)
Profile: Everyday driving, prioritizes comfort and low running cost.
Setup: 16x6.0J ET40
Cost: ~$620
Outcome: Minimal visual change, ride and fuel economy essentially unaffected.
Case 2: Balanced Enthusiast (Balanced / Flush Fit)
Profile: Wants a sportier stance without sacrificing daily usability.
Setup: 17x7.0J ET35
Cost: ~$3,000
Outcome: Noticeable visual upgrade, fuel economy drop within the expected range.
Case 3: Show Build (Max Aggressive)
Profile: Built primarily for shows or occasional track/show use.
Setup: 18x7.5J ET32
Cost: ~$5,500
Outcome: Maximum visual impact; daily comfort and fuel economy are heavily compromised, physical test fit required before production.
Decision Guide
Offset & Backspacing Reference
Backspacing is calculated as wheel width (in) ÷ 2 + offset (mm) ÷ 25.4 + 0.5 (flange allowance):
- OE: 16x6J ET40 → ~5.07″ backspacing
- Flush: 17x7J ET35 → ~5.38″ backspacing
- Max: 18x7.5J ET32 → ~5.51″ backspacing
A Note on Clearance
Final clearance depends on the exact tire model, suspension height, brake package, alignment and vehicle tolerances. A physical test fit is recommended before production.
Want to check a different width or offset before you order? Use our Offset & Backspacing Calculator to solve the numbers yourself, or looking for your exact Chrysler spec, or want a wheel built to a custom offset for your Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible? Contact ANKUSI with your bolt pattern and offset target and we will confirm the correct forged wheel spec for your build.