Will 35s Rub? What Causes Rubbing on Trucks and Jeeps

One of the most common questions when upgrading to 35-inch tires is simple: will they rub? The answer isn’t just yes or no — it depends on your full setup.

What Does “Rubbing” Mean?

Rubbing happens when your tires make contact with parts of your truck or Jeep during turning or suspension movement.

Common contact points include:

• Fender liners
• Front bumper edges
• Control arms
• Inner wheel wells

What Actually Causes Rubbing?

Tire size alone doesn’t cause rubbing — it’s the combination of factors.

1. Tire Width

• 35x12.50 = more likely to rub
• 35x11.50 = easier to fit

2. Wheel Offset

• Negative offset pushes tires outward
• More poke = more chance of hitting fenders

3. Wheel Width

• Wider wheels stretch the tire outward
• 10”–12” wheels increase rubbing risk

4. Suspension Setup

• Stock suspension = limited clearance
• Leveling kit = moderate clearance
• Lift kit = best clearance

Will 35s Rub on a Stock Truck?

In most cases — yes.

• Limited clearance up front
• High chance of rubbing when turning

Some narrower 35s may fit, but it’s not guaranteed.

Will 35s Rub with a Leveling Kit?

This is the most common setup — and the answer is:

• Depends heavily on offset
• Depends on tire width
• Minor trimming may be required

Will 35s Rub with a Lift Kit?

With a proper lift, 35s are much easier to run.

• More vertical clearance
• Better suspension travel
• Less chance of contact

However, aggressive offsets can still cause rubbing even with a lift.

Real-World Examples

Low Risk Setup

• 35x11.50
• 20x9 +18 or 0 offset
• Leveling kit

Moderate Risk Setup

• 35x12.50
• 20x10 -12 offset
• Leveling kit

High Risk Setup

• 35x12.50
• 20x12 -44 offset
• Leveling kit

How to Prevent Rubbing

• Choose the right offset (0 to -12 is safest)
• Consider narrower tires (11.5” vs 12.5”)
• Add a leveling kit or lift
• Be prepared for minor trimming if going aggressive

Biggest Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming all 35s fit the same
• Ignoring offset when choosing wheels
• Copying setups without matching suspension

Final Thoughts

35s don’t automatically mean rubbing — but they do require the right setup.

When you balance tire size, offset, and suspension correctly, you can run 35s clean and get the exact look you want.