jhkbird, a 235/45/17 overall rim+tire diameter appears to be smaller than stock, but the width is slightly wider.

lots of people run a 235 or 245 width with little or no rubbing. I run a tad taller (235/60/15) tire of that width, and it will rub a bit at full lock on left side to the back on the frame, but the fender clearence is fine. the overall diameter is about 1/2" more than yours. tire calc

if it is rubbing on the front of the fender (fender extension) it could have something to do with the offset, but if the other side is fine, i'd be looking for worn bushings or possibly something out of line or bent, like you thought.


re: pics, my sig shows my car when it had 16x8s (225/50/16 front lowered, 255/50/16 rear)