Is 5x120 the same as 5x4 75?
Yes. In most wheel-fitting contexts, 5x120 and 5x4.75 refer to the same five-lug bolt pattern, expressed in millimeters versus inches. The difference is mostly rounding and exact diameter tolerances, so they describe the same basic geometry when interpreted correctly.
To understand what that means, it helps to break down how bolt patterns are defined, how measurements convert between units, and why precision matters for fit, safety, and performance.
What the numbers mean
Before outlining the specifics, note these key concepts: a bolt pattern (or bolt circle diameter) is defined by the number of lug holes and the diameter of the circle that passes through their centers. 5x120 means five lug holes on a circle with a 120 mm diameter. 5x4.75 means five lug holes on a circle with a 4.75 inch diameter, which equals roughly 120.65 mm. The two notations describe the same idea in different units, with a small difference due to rounding and measurement standards.
- Five-lug pattern: the “5” indicates five holes; the second number is the bolt circle diameter (BCD).
- Unit expression: 120 mm directly; 4.75 inches is the imperial equivalent, about 120.65 mm.
- Rounding and precision: many catalogs list 5x120 as shorthand for the commonly used BMW pattern of about 120.65 mm.
- Industry nuance: some sources may cite 120.0 mm as the nominal spec; others will use 120.65 mm, so exact fit depends on the wheel manufacturer.
- Practical implication: while the concepts align, exact interchangeability hinges on matching the precise bolt circle diameter and bore specs.
In practice, most wheels labeled 5x120 are intended for a 120.65 mm circle, which is commonly rounded to 120 mm in casual listings. Always verify the exact spec from the wheel or vehicle manufacturer to avoid fit issues.
Interchangeability and caveats
Before attempting to swap wheels, recognize that nominally similar patterns may not be interchangeable if the exact diameter or bore differs. The following points help clarify what to check.
- Exact bolt circle diameter must match: 5x120 vs 5x4.75 are not automatically interchangeable if the precise diameter differs by more than a tolerance the mounting hardware allows.
- Center bore size matters: even with a matching bolt pattern, if the wheel’s center bore is larger or smaller than the hub, you may need a hub-centric ring or risk vibration or improper seating.
- Hub-centric vs lug-centric fit: some wheels rely on the hub to center the wheel; if the bore doesn’t match, rings or adapters may be required.
- Brake clearance and spoke design: even with a correct bolt pattern, calipers, rotors, and caliper clearance can affect whether a wheel fits a given vehicle.
- Manufacturer specs trump approximate fits: always check the exact pattern (BDC), bore, offset, and recommended applications in the wheel’s official spec sheet.
Bottom line: while 5x120 and 5x4.75 describe the same general concept, precise fit depends on exact diameter, bore, and other tolerance factors. If in doubt, consult the wheel manufacturer or a qualified technician and measure the vehicle’s hub and the wheel’s specs carefully.
Practical fit considerations
Beyond the bolt circle, several other dimensions influence whether a wheel will fit safely and perform as expected on your vehicle.
- Center bore compatibility: ensure the wheel’s center bore matches your hub or is only slightly larger to use hub-centric rings if needed.
- Wheel offset and width: correct offset keeps brake clearance and suspension geometry intact; mismatched offset can cause rubbing or altered steering feel.
- Brake caliper clearance: some wheels, even with the correct bolt pattern, may clear or rub depending on caliper size and rotor diameter.
- Hub-centric rings: these rings help center wheels with a different bore size and reduce runout and vibration.
- Model-specific notes: certain makes (for example, many BMWs) commonly use 5x120/5x120.65 patterns, but exact specs can vary by model and year.
When upgrading or changing wheels, verify both the bolt pattern and the hub-related dimensions, and seek professional guidance if you’re unsure about compatibility.
Summary
In summary, 5x120 and 5x4.75 describe the same five-lug bolt pattern in different measurement systems. The practical interchangeability depends on matching the exact bolt circle diameter (including rounding and tolerances) and ensuring hub bore, offset, and clearance are correct. Always check the wheel’s official specifications and, if needed, consult a professional to confirm a safe, proper fit.
What cars have a 5X4 75 bolt pattern?
Cars with a 5x4.75 bolt pattern include many classic and some modern General Motors (GM) vehicles, such as Corvettes, Camaros, Firebirds, and various models from Buick, Cadillac, and Oldsmobile. Other brands that have used this pattern include Aston Martin and Daewoo.
General Motors (GM)
- Chevrolet: Bel Air, Camaro, Chevelle, Corvette, Impala, Nova, S10, El Camino
- Buick: Grand National, Riviera, Skylark, Wildcat
- Cadillac: Eldorado, Seville, XLR
- Oldsmobile: GTO, Trans Am, various muscle cars
- Pontiac: GTO, Firebird, Trans Am
Other brands
- Aston Martin: DB7, V8 models
- Daewoo: Statesman
Important note
- Some modern GM vehicles have shifted to a 5x120mm metric bolt pattern, which is very close to 5x4.75. While the metric pattern will fit, it's important to use proper torque specifications and be aware that there can be slight differences in fitment.
What is equivalent to 5X4 75?
The notation "5x4.75" is the same as 5x4 3/4 inches and is the metric equivalent of 5x120.65mm. This refers to a five-lug bolt pattern, common on many American and European vehicles.
- Inch measurement: "5x4.75" or "5x4 3/4".
- Metric measurement: "5x120.65mm".
- Metric approximation: Sometimes, this is rounded to "5x120mm," but this is not an exact match and can cause issues.
Will BMW wheels fit a Camaro?
Yes the 100% correct way is to use a adapter, but many have done it w/o and have no issues. Agreed, I've looked into BMW wheels as well. The GM pattern is 5x120. 65, so an even smaller difference.
What is the 5x120 bolt pattern equal to?
A 5x120 bolt pattern is the metric equivalent of a 5x4.72-inch bolt pattern. While very similar, it is slightly different from the 5x120.7mm (5x4.75-inch) pattern, which is common on some vehicles like older Corvettes and Camaros. The difference is small (only 0.7 mm0.7 mm0.7 mm), but can cause issues if not addressed with proper adapters or hub-centric rings.
Key takeaways
- 5x120 mm is the same as 5x4.72 inches. This is a common bolt pattern for many modern vehicles.
- It is not the same as 5x4.75 inches, though the two are often confused. The difference is about 0.7 mm0.7 mm0.7 mm (0.028 inches).
- For a perfect fit, always match the exact bolt pattern. Trying to fit a 5x4.75 wheel onto a 5x120 hub (or vice-versa) can cause pressure on the studs and lead to damage or safety issues.
- Use proper adapters if needed. If your vehicle has a 5x4.75 bolt pattern and you want to use 5x120 wheels, you can use a wheel adapter. These adapters can help ensure a proper fit and reduce the risk of damage to your vehicle.
- Always check compatibility before buying. Before purchasing wheels for your vehicle, check its specific bolt pattern and compare it to the wheel's specifications. You can also check the manufacturer's website or consult a professional if you are unsure.
