The plastic/composite piece in each of the front wheelhouse that runs from just to the rear of the tire and curves upwards (I thought it was a splashguard, but I think it's called the "wheelhouse silencer")... how necessary is it? My wheels are rubbing on it just a tiny bit when I turn. If I push it in it gives me clearance, but it rubs enough on its own that it would wear the tire down eventually. Any ideas? Should I just remove it? What about cutting away just the part that rubs? Good idea? Bad idea?

Also, for those looking to successfully make the transition to 18" wheels here's what I've done:

Front: 235/40/18 18.5 rims w/ 20mm offset
Rear: 235/45/18 18.5 rims w/ 37mm offset (20mm would have looked better - oh well)

They work great and look great, with the one exception listed above.

 

Personally I don't see where a "plastic" piece would wear down your rubber tires. My concern would be more the noise and eventually wearing or burning a hole in the plastic. I am not familar enough with the car yet to give you a good answer.

But I would like to see pics of your car with the 18" wheels and tires.

James