Is the Subaru Forester 5x100?
Yes. The Subaru Forester generally uses a 5x100 bolt pattern across most model years, with a 56.1 mm center bore, which affects wheel compatibility. Specifics can vary by generation and brake setup, so verify your exact year and trim before buying wheels.
Bolt pattern basics for the Forester
Understanding the numbers matters for wheel compatibility. The 5x100 designation means five lug studs arranged on a circle that is 100 millimeters in diameter.
Practical implications for wheel shopping
These basics translate into broad wheel options, but fitment isn’t guaranteed. You still need to check center bore, offset, and brake clearance for your specific Forester.
- Five-lug design: Forester wheels mount on five studs rather than four or six.
- 100 mm bolt circle: The diameter of the stud pattern is 100 millimeters.
- Center bore: Foresters typically require a center bore around 56.1 mm for proper hub alignment; aftermarket rings may be needed if the wheel bore is smaller than the hub.
- Wheel size range: Stock and aftermarket wheels commonly span roughly 15 to 18 inches in diameter, with some generations offering larger options; always verify brake clearance for your year and trim.
In practice, this pattern is compatible with many wheels designed for 5x100 Subarus and other brands, but incorrect offset or caliper clearance can cause rubbing or alignment issues. Always confirm fitment for your exact vehicle.
Model-year coverage and exceptions
The Forester has used the 5x100 bolt pattern across its major generations, making cross-compatibility a common consideration for owners and shoppers. Center bore and brake design are constants you’ll want to verify when sourcing wheels, especially if you’re mixing wheels from different years or trims.
Generation-by-generation notes
While the 5x100 pattern is the norm, exact specifications such as center bore and brake caliper clearances can vary by generation and trim. This means some wheels that fit one year might require rings or different offsets for another.
- Standard across most Forester generations: 5x100 bolt pattern.
- Center bore commonly around 56.1 mm; verify for your year and wheel choice.
- Brake caliper size and rotor dimensions can affect clearance; higher-trim brakes may require different wheel offsets or designs.
- Aftermarket wheels from other 5x100 vehicles often fit, but always confirm offset, spoke clearance, and lug-seat type for safety.
Bottom line: for most Forester owners, 5x100 remains the default, but always confirm the exact fitment specs for your model year and trim before purchase or installation.
Wheel compatibility tips
Protect your investment by checking key specifications beyond the bolt pattern before buying wheels or tires for your Forester.
Checklist overview
Use this checklist to guide wheel swaps and upgrades for the Forester.
- Match bolt pattern and center bore to avoid misalignment or hub issues.
- Verify wheel offset and width to maintain correct steering feel and clearance from brakes and suspension components.
- Check brake caliper clearance and spoke design to prevent rubbing or contact.
- Confirm lug nut size and seating type; use the correct lug hardware specified for the wheel and vehicle.
Following these steps reduces the risk of rubbing, vibration, or improper hub alignment when upgrading Forester wheels.
Summary
The Forester’s 5x100 bolt pattern is a long-standing standard that keeps wheel options broad across generations. Always verify the exact center bore, offset, and brake clearance for your specific model year and trim before purchasing wheels, and seek professional advice if you’re unsure about fitment.
What subarus have a 5x100 bolt pattern?
Subaru: Many models, including the Subaru Impreza (non-STI versions), Legacy, and Forester, use the 5x100 bolt pattern. These vehicles are known for their all-wheel-drive capabilities and benefit significantly from a uniform wheel setup.
What is the bolt pattern on a Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester's bolt pattern depends on the model year: older models have a 5x100 pattern, while newer models (2019 and newer) have a 5x114.3 (or 5x4.5) pattern. For example, the Forester SF (1997-2002) and SJ (2012-2018) generations use a 5x100 pattern, whereas the SK (2019-2024) generation uses a 5x114.3 pattern.
5x100 bolt pattern
- Applicable models: Most Subaru Foresters through the 2018 model year, including the SF, SG, SH, and SJ generations.
- Years: 1997–2018.
5x114.3 bolt pattern
- Applicable models: Subaru Foresters from the 2019 model year forward.
- Years: 2019–present.
- This is also sometimes written as 5x4.5.
When did Subaru change from 5x100 to 5x114 3?
Before 2015, almost all were, minus the STI's from 2006-2014. In 2015, Subaru went with 5x114. 3 for the WRX and STI both.
What cars will a 5x100 bolt pattern fit?
Many cars from brands like Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Chrysler use a 5x100 bolt pattern, including models such as the Subaru Impreza, Toyota Celica, Volkswagen Golf, and Chrysler PT Cruiser. It's crucial to check your specific vehicle's year, trim, and option packages for confirmation, as not all models within a lineup share the same bolt pattern.
Common vehicles with a 5x100 bolt pattern
- Subaru: Impreza, WRX, Forester, Legacy, Outback, BRZ, and Crosstrek (specific years and trims)
- Toyota: Celica, Corolla, Camry, Matrix, Prius, and the 86
- Volkswagen: Golf, Jetta, Passat, Beetle, and Polo (specific years and trims)
- Chrysler: PT Cruiser, Sebring, Cirrus, Neon, and Stratus (specific years and trims)
- Pontiac: Grand Am and Sunfire (specific years)
- Lexus: CT 200H
- Dodge: Acclaim and Sundance
Important considerations
- Check vehicle specifics: Always verify the correct bolt pattern for your exact car model, year, and trim, as variations exist.
- Other fitment factors: In addition to the bolt pattern, ensure new wheels have the correct offset, hub bore diameter, and load rating for your vehicle's safety and performance.
- Hub bore: Some models share the 5x100 pattern but have different hub bore diameters, which is another critical specification to match for a proper fit.
