What is the bolt pattern on a bolt pattern?
A bolt pattern is the arrangement of lug holes on a wheel hub or flange, defined by the number of holes and the diameter of the circle they lie on.
In practical terms, the bolt pattern tells you whether a wheel can be mounted on a particular hub. It is usually expressed as N x D, where N is the number of lug holes and D is the pitch circle diameter (PCD), the circle that passes through the centers of all the holes. This article explains what the bolt pattern means, how it’s measured, and how to verify compatibility when buying wheels or upgrading hubs.
What defines a bolt pattern
Key elements that define a bolt pattern.
- Number of bolt holes (N): how many lugs hold the wheel in place (commonly 4, 5, 6, or 8).
- Pitch circle diameter (PCD): the diameter of the circle that passes through the centers of all the lug holes, measured in millimeters or inches.
- Center bore relevance: the wheel’s center bore must fit the hub’s shaft for proper centering; while not part of the bolt pattern itself, it affects fit and alignment.
Understanding these elements helps you identify whether a wheel matches a given hub and how securely it will mount. In practice, you’ll often see combinations like 5x114.3 mm or 6x139.7 mm as shorthand for a wheel’s lug arrangement.
Measuring and verifying a bolt pattern
To determine or confirm a bolt pattern, follow a practical measurement and compatibility check.
- Count the lug holes on the hub or wheel to determine N.
- Measure the pitch circle diameter (PCD): the circle that passes through the centers of all lug holes. For even-numbered patterns, you can measure across the circle between hole centers; for odd-numbered patterns, use a PCD gauge or refer to manufacturer specifications.
- Check the center bore diameter to ensure correct hub centering, and note any difference between hub-centric and lug-centric designs.
- Verify thread size and seat type if you’re swapping studs or lug nuts, since these are separate from the bolt pattern but essential for mounting.
- Cross-check with official specifications or a reputable fitment guide to confirm compatibility with your vehicle and wheel choice.
Accurate measurement reduces the risk of improper fitment, vibrations, or safety concerns that can arise from a mismatch between wheel and hub.
Common bolt patterns you’ll encounter
While there are many variants worldwide, certain patterns recur across regions and vehicle classes. The examples below illustrate typical lug counts and approximate diameters, but always confirm against vehicle documentation or a fitment guide.
- 4-lug patterns: 4x100 mm, 4x108 mm
- 5-lug patterns: 5x100 mm, 5x112 mm, 5x114.3 mm, 5x120 mm
- 6-lug patterns: 6x114.3 mm, 6x120 mm, 6x139.7 mm
- 8-lug patterns: 8x165 mm (and similar variations used on some trucks and heavy-duty applications)
These patterns cover a broad range of passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks. Always verify the exact pattern for a specific model year and market, as there can be intermediate or rare variants.
Center bore and hub-centric vs lug-centric considerations
Beyond the bolt pattern, two related factors influence mounting quality: hub-centric vs lug-centric wheel mounting and the hub bore. A hub-centric design relies on the wheel’s center bore to align the wheel precisely with the hub, reducing runout and vibrations. If the bore is larger than the hub, you may need spacers or adapters to maintain proper balance. Conversely, lug-centric wheels rely on the lug nuts to center the wheel, which can introduce slight misalignment if holes aren’t precisely matched. When buying wheels, check both the bolt pattern and the center bore to ensure proper fitment and safe operation.
Practical tips for buyers and installers
To avoid fitment problems, keep these guidelines in mind.
- Always verify N (lug count) and PCD before purchasing wheels or adapters.
- Confirm the center bore size and whether hub-centric adapters are needed for proper centering.
- Be mindful of thread pitch and lug nut seating type; mismatched hardware can cause improper seating or damage.
- Consult vehicle-specific fitment data or a trusted wheel fitment guide for your exact model year and trim level.
With careful verification, you can choose wheels that fit correctly and perform safely under normal driving conditions.
In summary, a bolt pattern is the combination of lug count and the diameter of the circle through their centers, with center bore and mounting hardware playing supporting roles. Measuring accurately and cross-checking with your vehicle’s specs are essential steps in achieving a proper, safe wheel fit.
Summary: Bolt patterns define how wheels attach to hubs, expressed as N x D (lug count by PCD). Accurate measurement of lug holes, PCD, and center bore, plus attention to thread size and seat type, ensures wheel compatibility and safe mounting. Always verify with manufacturer data or a trusted fitment resource before purchasing or installing wheels.
How to tell wheel bolt pattern?
And from the center of one stud. Go across the circle. To the center of the other stud. And you can see this measurement here is five and a half.
What is the bolt pattern for a 5 lug?
So 5 on 42 1/2 which is what you're going to find on most Fords. That is 114 millimeter for five on four and 3/4. Is 120.65 millimeter make sure you order them right so you only do it once.
What cars use the 5x112 bolt pattern?
Cars with a 5x112 bolt pattern include many models from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and some newer BMWs. This pattern is also used by other brands like Aiways, Bentley, and Alfa Romeo, and it's important to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle before purchasing new wheels.
European brands
- Audi: A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q3, Q4, Q5, e-tron
- Volkswagen: Golf (MK5 and newer), Passat, Tiguan, Arteon, Touareg
- Mercedes-Benz: A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, G-Class, CLA
- BMW: Select newer models such as the iX1 and i4
- Other brands: Aiways, Alfa Romeo, and Bentley also use this pattern.
Important considerations
- Vehicle-specific: Always verify that the 5x112 bolt pattern is the correct one for your specific car model and year, as brands may use different patterns for different vehicles.
- Hub Bore: In addition to the bolt pattern, make sure the wheel's hub bore (the center hole) is the correct size for your vehicle's hub to ensure a proper and secure fit.
What does 5 on 5 bolt pattern mean?
The bolt pattern of 5 on 5 inch that there are 5 studs and the distance across the bolt circle is 5 inches. Most likely you have the more common 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern like what the wheel of the # AM20537 has instead.
