[quote author=HALOREALM link=topic=84927.msg1606583#msg1606583 date=1186070058]
Why yes..........yes I did. And I still don't know what I'm looking at! :shock:
[/quote]
Hi HALOREALM. :wavey: I understand, and apologize. Actually, my first reply was not meant as an answer to your question (that is why addressed it "Hi all", and did not quote your question in my reply). It was meant to provide a website, to everyone, for generally helpful information on wheel sizing.
Also, to paraphrase my first answer, "You should ask the experts. either at your local Speed Shop, The Tire Rack, Discount Tire, or other Wheel/Tire fitment experts, instead of taking the advice of strangers (including me) from the Internet.
Nevertheless, I will try to help you as best I can.
Compared to the OEM 17" Fusion wheel (17X7 w/44mm offset):
- The 18X7.5 w/40mm offset will have 2mm less clearance on the inside (suspension side), and stick out 10mm(1cm) more on the outside (closer to the fender).
- The 17X7 w/40mm offset will have 4 mm more clearance on the inside, and stick out 4 mm more on the outside.
So generally speaking, they should both work.
Now I will explain why my answer means squat. What size tires will you be mounting to the new wheels? Wider, lower profile? Same size as stock? How much are you thinking of lowering the vehicle? What is the lug spacing on the wheels you are thinking of purchasing? Is it the correct size? Are they available in the correct lug size? Are they the proper center bore (hub) size? Etc, etc, etc.
As you can see, there are too many variables for anyone, without a lot more information, over the Internet, to give you an accurate answer. We would all be guessing. Do you really want to buy something this expensive and important based on the guessing of strangers?
You know what? You may get an answer from someone who knows what they are talking about, or from someone who doesn't know their left from their right. They may guess right, they may guess wrong. Do you want to take that chance with your safety and money?
Ask these questions, and get a reliable answer from a reputable expert. I named just a few above.
Please understand, I am not trying to be a wiseguy, I am genuinely trying to help you get the right answers, and save you money and grief.
Good luck! :cheers: