What bolt pattern is 5x100?
The five-lug, 100-millimeter bolt pattern (5x100) refers to five lug holes arranged around a 100 mm circle. It’s a common spec found on a mix of European and Japanese cars, notably on some older Volkswagen Group models and many Subarus.
What the numbers mean
The bolt pattern is described by two numbers: the number of lug holes and the diameter of the pitch circle that passes through the centers of those holes. In a 5x100 setup there are five lug holes, and they sit on a circle with a 100 mm diameter. The center bore is the hole in the middle of the wheel that fits over the hub, and offset (often listed as ET) describes how far the wheel sits in relation to the hub. All three specs—PCD, center bore, and offset—must align for a wheel to fit correctly and safely.
Vehicles and brands that have used 5x100
The following examples illustrate common usage of the 5x100 pattern. This is not a universal car-by-car list; fitment can vary by year and market. Always verify the exact spec for your vehicle before buying wheels.
- Volkswagen Group cars such as the Golf IV and Jetta IV (late 1990s to early 2000s)
- Subaru models such as the Impreza and Legacy from the 1990s through the 2000s
- First‑generation Audi A3 (roughly 1996–2003) in some regions
These examples reflect common historical uses of 5x100, but many cars outside these brands or newer generations may use different patterns. Always confirm on the specific vehicle’s wheel spec sheet or a trusted compatibility database.
How to verify compatibility
If you’re shopping for wheels or adapters, use these checks to confirm fitment. Measuring and comparing specs helps avoid misfit issues such as rim rubbing brakes, clearance problems, or improper hub fit.
- Confirm the pattern is 5x100: count five lug holes and verify the 100 mm circle is correct, using calipers or official specs
- Check the center bore: ensure the wheel bore is large enough to fit over the hub; a larger bore is acceptable with hub-centric rings, a smaller bore will not fit
- Assess hub-centric vs lug-centric design: hub-centric wheels align precisely with the hub; lug-centric rely on lug nuts, which can cause vibrations if not matched
- Evaluate offset and width: ensure the offset (ET) and wheel width won’t cause rubbing with calipers, struts, or fenders
- Verify lug nut size and thread pitch: ensure compatible lug nuts for your hub (common patterns exist, but specifics vary by model)
- Consider brake clearance: make sure the wheel clears brake calipers and rotors for your braking setup
Following these checks helps ensure a safe and proper fit. If in doubt, consult a wheel specialist or use a reputable compatibility database, and cross-check with your vehicle’s VIN.
Summary
5x100 denotes a five-lug wheel pattern with a 100 mm pitch circle—historically common on several Subaru models and older VW Group cars, among others. Always verify PCD, center bore, offset, and lug-nut specifications for your exact vehicle and wheel combination to ensure a safe fit.
