Newbie Questions: Wheel offset and stock offset

[Archibald]

Got some newb-tastic questions for you pros. What is the stock offset for an 05 GT? When upgrading to 17x7 wheels and 215/45-17 tires I've heard that a +40mm offset will do the trick for rubbing. Here's my big question, is offset like an actual spacer that you put on your hub assembly or do you buy a 17x7 wheel with a +40mm offset? This is the first car I've ever owned (truck and SUV in the past) and would be the first set of wheels that I have ever purchased. Please help the mod challenged guy.

[SWortham]

The offset is a measurement of the wheel. If you buy wheels with the correct offset you won't need spacers.

And the correct offset for a 7" wide wheel for our cars will range from 40mm to 45mm to avoid rubbing.

[Archibald]

SWortham you are SO BIG help, how do you know what offset a wheel has if you are buying them online?

[KeWLKaT]

They usually indicate it in the specs...