Stance (vehicle)

Stance refers to the aesthetic modification of a vehicle's suspension, wheel fitment, and tire choice to achieve a specific visual appearance, typically characterized by a lowered ride height, wheels that fit very close to or tuck under the fenders, and often aggressively angled (cambered) wheels. The goal is generally to create a low and wide visual profile.

Key elements contributing to vehicle stance include:

• Ride Height: Often significantly lowered using aftermarket suspension components such as lowering springs, coilovers, or air suspension. Lowering reduces the gap between the tires and fenders.

• Wheel Fitment: Focuses on selecting wheels with the correct width, diameter, and offset to achieve a flush or "tucked" appearance within the wheel wells. This can involve aggressive wheel sizing and the use of wheel spacers.

• Camber: Intentional adjustment of the wheel's camber angle (the vertical tilt of the wheel relative to the vehicle's body). Negative camber, where the top of the wheel tilts inward, is frequently employed to allow the wheel to fit within the fender arch when lowered.

• Tire Choice: Tires are selected based on their size and sidewall profile. Stretched tires, where a tire is mounted on a wider-than-recommended wheel, are common to achieve clearance and a specific aesthetic.

While stance is primarily an aesthetic modification, it can impact handling, tire wear, and ride quality. Extreme camber angles, for example, reduce the contact patch of the tire, potentially decreasing grip and increasing wear on the inside edge of the tire. The lowered ride height can also reduce ground clearance, making the vehicle more susceptible to damage from speed bumps and other road imperfections. There is an ongoing debate in the automotive community regarding the balance between the aesthetic appeal of stanced vehicles and their potential functional limitations.