By Manuel Crespo

Thinking about Upgrading your truck with aftermarket wheels and tires? That's a great way to improve its look and performance, But when you go with bigger tires, one common issue comes up—tire rubbing. which could be solved by using Bumper spacers.

What Is Bumper Trimming?

Bumper trimming on trucks is the process of cutting or shaving parts of the front bumper to create clearance for larger tires. It’s often done near the lower corners or inner edges where the tires rub during sharp turns or suspension flex. This modification is common after adding bigger wheels, lifts, or off-road setups, and while it solves rubbing issues, it’s permanent and can alter the factory look if not done cleanly. 

Why Trimming Happens:

• You change the wheel offset

• You don’t lift or level your truck enough

• Rubbing mostly happens in the front corners of the bumper or the wheel well liners, especially when turning the wheels all the way or hitting uneven ground.

• Light Duty trucks like F-150s, Chevy Silverado 1500, or Ram 1500 have less clearance in the wheel wells.

• The front bumpers often include plastic valences or air dams that get in the way.

• Larger trucks like Chevy Silverado 2500/3500, or Ram 2500/3500 have larger suspension components which means less room for big tires

• OEM Bumpers Aren’t Designed for Aggressive Tires

How to Avoid Trimming with Bumper Spacers

One easy way to reduce or even avoid trimming is to use bumper spacers. Bumper spacers let you avoid trimming by pushing the bumper forward slightly to clear larger tires. They install between the bumper brackets and frame using longer, high-strength bolts, keeping the factory look without cutting into metal or plastic. This makes the setup reversible, preserves resale value, and maintains clean alignment with the grille and fenders. The trade-off is a small reduction in approach angle and potential fitment adjustments for skid plates or sensors.

Benefits:

• No cutting required in many cases

• Keeps the factory bumper look

• Can be reversed later if needed

• Quick and easy install (usually bolt-on)          

When Bumper Spacers Work Best:

• Light rubbing on plastic parts of the bumper

• Tire size is only slightly larger than stock (e.g., going from 33" to 35")

• You’re keeping a stock or near-stock wheel offset

 Do you think bumper spacers are right for your build?

Bumper spacers could be the perfect upgrade for your build if you want bigger tire clearance without the hassle of cutting into your bumper. They’re easy to install, fully reversible, and keep your truck looking clean and factory-fresh while protecting resale value. If you’re after a simple, no-cut solution that delivers instant results, bumper spacers are the way to go. We currently offer a wide broad spec of Wicked Customs bumper spacers some of our current best sellers could be found here:

• 2020-2024 GMC/Chevrolet 2500/3500 1.25" Bumper Spacer can be found HERE
• 2019-2024 GMC/Chevrolet 1500 3/4" Bumper Spacer can be found HERE
• 2015-2020 Ford F-150 3/4" Bumper Spacer can be found HERE
• 2017+ FORD F-250/350/450 1.375" Bumper Spacer can be found HERE
• 2004-2008 Ford F-150 3/4" Bumper Spacer can be found HERE
• 2018-2020 FORD RAPTOR 3/4" Bumper Spacer can be found HERE