ACT Legal Wheel Modification Rules: Canberra Wheel and Tyre Guide

The ACT has its own modified vehicle inspection and approval requirements. Wheel and tyre changes that stay close to factory specifications may be straightforward, but aggressive offsets, large tyre diameter changes, spacers or combined suspension modifications need careful checking.

The technical baseline is VSB 14 Section LS: Tyres, Rims, Suspension and Steering, used together with Access Canberra's current modified vehicle requirements.

Quick Answer for the ACT

Aftermarket wheels can be legal in the ACT when the vehicle remains compliant with tyre placard logic, VSB 14 principles and ACT registration requirements. Tyres must not protrude past guards, must not rub, must have suitable load and speed ratings, and must not rely on ordinary wheel spacers.

Wheel Spacers in the ACT

VSB 14 says wheel spacers or adaptors between the wheel mounting face and road wheel must not be used unless fitted as original equipment by the vehicle manufacturer. ACT drivers should avoid spacers unless Access Canberra or an approved certifier confirms an accepted pathway.

Offset and Track Width

Under VSB 14 guidance:

• Passenger cars: wheel track must not increase by more than 25 mm beyond the manufacturer's maximum.
• Eligible off-road 4WD and goods vehicles: wheel track may increase by up to 50 mm.
• Tyres must remain covered by guards or flares.
• Wheels must not touch bodywork, suspension, steering or brakes.

Offset is only one part of the calculation. The final wheel width, tyre width and track change all matter.

Tyre Diameter in the ACT

Passenger cars are generally limited to 15 mm larger or 26 mm smaller overall diameter than a manufacturer-designated tyre. Some eligible off-road and goods vehicles may allow up to 50 mm larger diameter.

The larger the tyre, the more important it is to check speedometer accuracy, braking performance, guard coverage and suspension clearance.

ACT Fitment Checklist

• Check the tyre placard first.
• Confirm wheel and tyre load ratings.
• Calculate tyre diameter change.
• Calculate final wheel track change.
• Check full-lock and loaded suspension clearance.
• Confirm guard coverage.
• Avoid spacers unless original equipment or approved.
• Confirm whether Access Canberra inspection or certification is required.

Adelaide Help for ACT-Registered Vehicles

Autosport Tyre World can help check wheel fitment, tyre sizing, load rating, balancing, alignment and clearance. For ACT registration approval questions, confirm with Access Canberra or an approved certifier.

TYREPLUS Magill / Autosport Tyre World

647 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072

Phone: 0452 641 023

TYREPLUS Clarence Gardens / Autosport Tyre World

911 South Road, Clarence Gardens SA 5039

Phone: 0420 299 911

TYREPLUS Wingfield / Autosport Tyre World

411 Grand Junction Road, Wingfield SA 5013

Phone: 0433 645 411

FAQ

Are wheel spacers legal in the ACT?

Treat spacers as not allowed unless original equipment or specifically approved.

Do ACT wheel modifications need inspection?

They may if the fitment changes track, tyre diameter, suspension, steering, braking or safety system behaviour beyond accepted limits.