What is the bolt pattern on a 1969 Volkswagen?
The most common bolt pattern for 1969 Volkswagen passenger cars is 4 on 130 millimeters (4x130). This configuration places four lug studs on a circle with a diameter of 130 mm and is characteristic of the Beetle family, including the Beetle (Type 1), the Karmann Ghia, and the Type 3 models from that era. The typical hub bore for these wheels is 57.1 mm, which matters for centering with aftermarket rims.
Details can vary by model within the 1969 lineup. While the Beetle family largely used 4x130, other VW lines from the period—such as the Transporter/Bus—could employ different lug patterns. If you’re working with a non-Beetle passenger model or a vehicle with a different body style from that year, confirm the exact lug arrangement for your specific vehicle by checking the factory service manual, a parts catalog tailored to your VIN, or by measuring the bolt circle directly.
Pattern specifics for 1969 VW passenger models
The Beetle family, along with its close relatives like the Karmann Ghia and Type 3 coupes and sedans, generally share the 4x130 bolt pattern. This means four lug holes arranged on a circle of 130 mm in diameter. When evaluating wheels or adapters, start with this pattern and then verify center bore and thread pitch, as those details influence fitment.
How to verify your exact vehicle
To ensure accuracy, identify your vehicle’s exact model and year, then measure or look up the precise lug pattern. If you measure yourself, count the lug holes (4 or 5) and measure the diameter of the circle that passes through the centers of the lug holes, which gives you the bolt pattern (for example, 4x130 mm). Also confirm the center bore size (often around 57.1 mm for VW’s Beetle family) and the lug thread pitch. When fitting aftermarket wheels, consider center bore adapters or rings if necessary to ensure proper centering and seating.
Conclusion and takeaway
For most 1969 VW passenger cars, the bolt pattern is 4x130 mm. This rule of thumb primarily applies to the Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Type 3 families from that year. If you’re dealing with a non-passenger model or a different VW variant from 1969, verify the exact pattern for that model before purchasing wheels or adapters.
Summary
Answer in brief: 1969 Volkswagen passenger cars typically use a 4x130 bolt pattern. Model-specific verification is advised for non-Beetle/VW passenger variants, and always check center bore and thread specifications to ensure proper fitment.
What is the bolt pattern on a 1969 VW Beetle?
The 1969 VW Beetle has a 4x130 lug pattern. This means it has four lug holes with a bolt circle diameter of 130mm.
- Standard Bug: Models from 1968 and later, including the 1969 Beetle, came with the 4x130 pattern.
- 5-lug variation: Older Beetles (1967 and earlier) used a 5x205 "wide 5" lug pattern.
- Conversion: While some 1969 models may have been modified, the original factory lug pattern for this year is 4x130.
What does the 4x108 bolt pattern fit?
The 4x108 bolt pattern is commonly used by vehicle brands such as Mazda, Ford, Saab, Mercury, Volvo, and many more. Wheel sizes that we carry for this bolt pattern are 15, 16, 17, and 18-inch wheels. Our large selection of wheel finishes, designs, and colors can help you truly customize your vehicle.
What is the bolt pattern on a VW 5-lug?
Volkswagen uses several different 5-lug bolt patterns, with the two most common being 5x205 for older classic models (like the Beetle and early Bus) and 5x112 for most modern Volkswagens since the mid-2000s. Another pattern, 5x100, was used on certain models in the 1990s and early 2000s, such as some Golf and Jetta generations.
Common 5-lug bolt patterns
- 5x205: Found on older models like the Standard Beetle (1954-1967), Karmann Ghia (1956-1966), and some Buses.
- 5x112: Used on most modern VWs, including Golfs (Mk5 and newer) and Jettas (2005 and newer).
- 5x100: Used on some Golf and Jetta generations from the 1990s and early 2000s (e.g., Golf Mk4).
How to confirm your bolt pattern
- Check your vehicle's manual: This is the most accurate way to find the correct bolt pattern for your specific model and year.
- Inspect the existing wheels: The pattern is typically stamped on the wheel itself.
- Measure the bolt pattern: For a 5-lug wheel, measure from the center of one lug hole to the back of the third hole.
What is the bolt pattern on a 1968 VW Beetle?
The 4x130 4 lug bolt pattern came stock on the 1968 VW Beetle.
