What is the bolt pattern for Subaru?
Most Subaru models use a 5x100 mm bolt pattern. This is the standard lug arrangement found on the bulk of the lineup.
Across Subaru's mainstream range—Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, WRX, STI, and BRZ (and the Toyota 86 built in collaboration with Subaru)—the typical setup is five lugs on a 100 mm circle. However, specialty or regional models can vary, so it’s always best to confirm the exact spec for your vehicle's year, trim, and market, including the hub bore and lug nut size.
Common bolt pattern across Subaru models
Below is a concise summary of the pattern you’re most likely to encounter on Subaru vehicles sold in North America and many global markets.
- Bolts: five-lug configuration
- Bolt circle diameter: 100 mm (5x100)
- Applies to: Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, WRX, STI, BRZ, and similar models
- Shared with: Toyota 86/GR86 (for wheels compatibility, though you should verify each part’s compatibility)
In practice, the 5x100 bolt pattern is the standard for most Subarus, fostering cross-compatibility across many trims and generations. Always verify the exact spec for your exact vehicle before purchasing wheels or adapters.
How to verify your bolt pattern
To confirm the wheel lug arrangement for your Subaru, use these steps:
- Check your owner’s manual or the official Subaru specifications for your exact model/year.
- Inspect the wheel hub or the face of the brake rotor to count the lug holes (Subaru’s mainstream models typically have five).
- Measure the bolt circle diameter by drawing a line between two opposite lug studs and measuring the distance in millimeters (that distance is the bolt pattern).
- Confirm with a dealer or trusted parts retailer that the wheels you intend to use match 5x100 and check the hub bore and lug nut size for proper fitment.
Conclusion: Verifying the bolt pattern, hub bore, and lug nut size ensures safe, proper wheel fitment and avoids clearance or centering issues.
Hub bore considerations
Note that the hub bore (the central hole in the wheel) and lug nut size vary slightly between Subaru models and markets. Even with a 5x100 pattern, improper hub alignment can cause vibration or improper seating, so verify these details when selecting wheels or using adapters.
Summary
For most Subaru models, the bolt pattern is 5x100. This simple five-lug, 100 mm arrangement covers the majority of Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, WRX, STI, BRZ, and related vehicles, including the shared 5x100 with the Toyota 86. Always confirm your exact model/year’s spec, including hub bore and lug nut size, before purchasing wheels—regional or rare editions can vary.
Do all subarus have the same wheel bolt pattern?
No, not all Subarus have the same bolt pattern; most use either the common 5×1005 cross 1005×100 or 5×114.35 cross 114.35×114.3 patterns, but this depends on the model and year. For example, older models and some WRX/STI versions from 2014 and earlier often use 5×1005 cross 1005×100, while newer models like the 2015+ WRX, and 2019+ Forester have a 5×114.35 cross 114.35×114.3 pattern.
Common Subaru bolt patterns
- 5×1005 cross 1005×100: Used on many older models, including the Subaru Impreza, Crosstrek, BRZ, Legacy (1990–1999), and Forester (1997–2008).
- 5×114.35 cross 114.35×114.3: Used on many newer models, such as the WRX (2015–present), the Outback (2005–present), the Legacy (2000–present), and the Forester (2009–present).
Why patterns differ
- Model and year changes: The bolt pattern can change with a new generation or platform update to accommodate different brakes, wheel, or drivetrain components.
- Specific models: Some high-performance models, like the WRX STI, have had their own specific patterns that can be different from other Subaru models of the same era.
How to confirm
- Check vehicle specifications: Always verify the bolt pattern for your specific model and year before purchasing new wheels or tires.
- Consult a professional: If you are unsure, contact a dealership or a wheel and tire specialist for confirmation.
What is the bolt pattern on a Subaru?
A good rule of thumb is, for anything older than 2018, your bolt pattern is typically 5x100. Newer than 2018, it's a 5x114. 3 bolt pattern. Both 5x100 and 5x114.
What subarus use 5x100?
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 2015 Subaru Outback?
The 2015 Subaru Outback has a 5x114.3mm bolt pattern (also known as 5x4.5 inches). This is a change from the 5x100mm pattern used on previous generations, and means it uses a different wheel from 2014 and earlier models.
- Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches)
- Center Bore: 56.1mm
- Lug Nut Size: 12x1.25mm
