What does the 6x139 bolt pattern fit?
The 6x139 bolt pattern refers to six lug holes arranged on a circle with a diameter of 139.7 millimeters (about 5.5 inches). It is most commonly found on GM full-size trucks and SUVs, and appears on a range of other models in certain years and markets.
In practical terms, 6x139 means six lug bolts or studs are used to fasten a wheel to the hub, and the diameter of the bolt circle is 139.7 mm. When shopping for wheels or adapters, you must verify the bolt circle, hub bore, and offset to ensure proper fitment and clearances for brakes and suspension components.
Bolt pattern basics
The 139.7 mm measurement is the clockwise circle diameter that passes through the centers of the six lug holes. The pattern is commonly described in inches as 6x5.5, which is widely used in North America. This pattern is not interchangeable with other six-lug patterns such as 6x5.0 or 6x139.1, so exact compatibility is essential. Center bore size and wheel offset/backspacing also influence fit and brake clearance.
For anyone planning to swap wheels, understanding this pattern helps you avoid mismatches that could damage wheels, hubs, or brakes. Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle model year and trim before purchasing wheels or adapters.
Vehicles that commonly use 6x139.7
The following GM-based trucks and SUVs frequently use the 6x139.7 bolt pattern across multiple generations. This list highlights popular examples but is not exhaustive; always verify for your exact year/model.
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- GMC Yukon
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Cadillac Escalade
Wheels and adapters in this pattern are widely available due to the ubiquity of these GM platforms. If your vehicle falls into these categories, you’re more likely to encounter 6x139.7 wheels in aftermarket and factory options. Always confirm fits for your exact model year and trim, as variations can occur.
How to verify fit and buy wheels
Before purchasing wheels or adapters for a 6x139.7 hub, perform these checks to avoid fitment issues:
- Confirm bolt circle diameter (BCD) is 139.7 mm (6x139.7) on your vehicle’s specifications or door jamb sticker.
- Check the number of lugs (six) and ensure the lug holes line up with the wheel’s lug pattern.
- Check the center bore size to ensure hub centering; if the wheel’s center bore is larger, consider hub-centric rings.
- Verify brake caliper clearance and rotor diameter to avoid rubbing or interference.
- Consider wheel offset and backspacing to maintain proper suspension, steering, and alignment characteristics.
- If using adapters or multi-brand wheels, ensure the adapter is rated for the load and intended use of your vehicle.
Following these steps helps ensure a safe, reliable wheel fitment for 6x139.7-pattern wheels on compatible GM trucks and SUVs, and reduces the risk of clearance or balancing issues.
Notes and caveats
While 6x139.7 is most strongly associated with GM full-size trucks and SUVs, some other brands and model years may use the same or a closely related pattern. Always verify with the vehicle’s official specifications or a trusted wheel-fitment resource for your exact year/model. Mismatched bolt patterns can cause mounting failure, brake interference, or unsafe driving conditions.
Summary
The 6x139 bolt pattern is a six-lug, 139.7 mm bolt circle used most prominently on GM full-size pickups and sport/utilitarian SUVs such as the Silverado/Sierra family, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade. When shopping for wheels, confirm the bolt circle, center bore, offset, and brake clearance for your specific year and trim, and use hub-centric rings if needed. This ensures a proper, safe fit and reliable performance.
