I know that for my 97 Volvo 850, the volvo stock wheels are 15x7 with 5x108 bolt pattern with a 43mm offset. What does the offset mean? Can I put a wheel on that has a different offset, for example a wheel that measures 18x7.5 with a 5x108 bolt pattern and a 38MM offset? Im lost on this offset thing. Any help would be much appreciated.

 

The Offset is how much the center of the rim sets from the edge.I believe the mounting surface.

It it is to much one way the rim won't fit because it will hit the caliper.

To much the other way and it will stick out from the fender.