What is a Bolt Pattern?
A bolt pattern, also known as lug pattern or bolt circle, is the arrangement of the lug holes on your wheel. It determines which wheels will physically fit your vehicle's hub. The bolt pattern consists of two numbers: the number of lug holes and the diameter of the imaginary circle they form.
For example, a 5x114.3 bolt pattern means there are 5 lug holes arranged in a circle with a diameter of 114.3mm. This is one of the most common patterns found on Japanese and many American vehicles.
Getting the bolt pattern right is non-negotiable because a wheel with the wrong bolt pattern simply won't mount to your vehicle's hub.
Understanding PCD
PCD stands for Pitch Circle Diameter, which is the diameter of the circle that passes through the center of all the lug holes. This measurement is critical and must match exactly for proper fitment.
Common PCD measurements include the following
4x100: Common on older Honda Civics, Toyota Corolla (1987-2002), VW Golf (1985-1998), Mazda Miata, and many compact cars
4x108: Found on older Ford Focus (pre-2015), Ford Fiesta (pre-2011), Peugeot, and Citroën. Note: 2015+ Focus uses 5x108
5x100: Subaru BRZ, older Subaru Impreza (pre-2005), older VW, Toyota 86, Scion FR-S
5x112: Audi, VW, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW G-chassis (2019+)
5x114.3: Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, Subaru WRX (2005+), and many others
5x120: BMW E/F-chassis (through ~2018), Honda Odyssey/Pilot (select years), Land Rover
5x127: Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2018) and JL (2018+). Note: Earlier YJ/TJ models used 5x114.3
6x139.7: Toyota Tacoma/Tundra, Chevy Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan
The PCD is typically measured in millimeters, though some manufacturers (especially American) may use inches (5x4.5" = 5x114.3mm).
Common Bolt Patterns
Understanding which vehicles share bolt patterns can be helpful when searching for wheels:
4-Lug Patterns: Most compact and economy cars use 4-lug patterns. The 4x100 pattern is extremely common among Japanese compacts, while European cars often use 4x108.
5-Lug Patterns: The majority of modern passenger vehicles use 5-lug patterns. Japanese makes typically use 5x114.3, while German luxury brands (Audi, VW, Mercedes-Benz) prefer 5x112. BMW historically used 5x120 on E and F-chassis models, but switched to 5x112 starting with G-chassis vehicles (2019+).
6-Lug Patterns: Full-size trucks and SUVs commonly use 6-lug patterns. The 6x139.7 (also written as 6x5.5") pattern is shared across Toyota, GM, and Nissan trucks.
Multi-Pattern Wheels: Some aftermarket wheels are manufactured with dual-drilled patterns, allowing them to fit multiple vehicles. For example, a wheel might have both 5x100 and 5x114.3 holes, making it compatible with both Subarus and Hondas.
Cross-Compatibility
While the bolt pattern must match, there are some nuances to consider.
Hub-Centric vs Lug-Centric: Factory wheels are usually hub-centric, meaning they center on the hub bore. Aftermarket wheels may require hub-centric rings to ensure proper centering.
Lug Type Matters: Beyond the pattern, ensure your lugs match the wheel's seat type. Conical (tapered) seats are the most common for aftermarket wheels. Ball (radius) seats are common on European vehicles. Flat seats are used on some applications.
Thread Pitch: Your vehicle's lug studs have a specific thread pitch. While not part of the bolt pattern, using the wrong lugs can be dangerous.
Hub Bore: The center hole of the wheel must be equal to or larger than your vehicle's hub diameter. If larger, use hub-centric rings to eliminate vibration.
Measuring Your Bolt Pattern
If you need to verify your bolt pattern, here's how to measure:
For 4-Lug and 6-Lug Patterns: Measure straight across from the center of one lug hole to the center of the opposite hole. This gives you the PCD directly.
For 5-Lug Patterns: Measure from the center of one lug hole to the outer edge of the hole directly across (not adjacent). Then multiply by 1.0515 to get the PCD.
Alternatively, measure from the back of one hole to the center of the second hole away (skip one). This measurement equals the PCD.
Tools You Can Use: A ruler or tape measure works for basic measurements. A bolt pattern gauge tool provides precise readings. Online calculators are also available where you input your measurements.
Double-Check: Always verify your measurement against known specifications for your vehicle. Factory service manuals and reputable automotive databases provide accurate bolt pattern information.
Pro Tip: Many wheel shops and tire stores have bolt pattern gauges and can measure your pattern for free.