What is the bolt pattern on a Subaru Forester?
The bolt pattern on a Subaru Forester is 5x100, meaning five lug holes arranged on a 100 mm circle. This pattern is standard across most model years, from the original release through the latest generation, making Forester wheels broadly compatible with many Subaru and other 5x100 options.
Bolt pattern basics for wheel fitting
Knowing the bolt pattern helps determine wheel compatibility with your hub, rotor, and caliper. For the Forester, the most common setup is 5 lugs on a 100 mm bolt circle, and most models also use a 56.1 mm center bore to center the wheel on the hub.
Key specs at a glance
Before listing the core specs, this section provides the main measurements you should verify when selecting wheels for a Forester.
Below are the key technical specs you should know about the Forester's wheel mounting.
- Bolt pattern: 5x100 (five lug holes on a 100 mm circle)
- Center bore: 56.1 mm
- Lug nut size/seat type: common combinations include M12x1.25 with a 60-degree conical seat (verify for your exact wheel)
- General compatibility note: verify offset and brake clearance for your specific model year
These measurements guide wheel purchases and help prevent clearance problems with brake calipers and hub alignment.
Generation-by-generation notes
Subaru has kept the 5x100 bolt pattern across Forester generations, including recent models. However, there can be minor year-to-year differences in center bore tolerances or hub-centric requirements. If you’re mounting wheels from a different year or trim, check the exact specs for that specific vehicle using the VIN or the official shop manual.
Practical tips for buyers
To avoid surprises when buying wheels or tires, follow these steps:
- Confirm the wheel is labeled 5x100 PCD to fit the Forester.
- Check the center bore size (56.1 mm) and the need for hub-centric rings if your wheels are not hub-centric.
- Verify offset and brake clearance for the exact year and trim to prevent rubbing or contact with suspension components.
When in doubt, consult a Subaru dealer or a tire/wheel professional with your car’s VIN for precise specifications.
Summary: The Forester’s standard bolt pattern is 5x100 with a 56.1 mm center bore. This pattern is consistent across generations, though precise center bore requirements and offset can vary. Always verify all measurements for your exact model year before buying wheels.
When did Subaru change from 5x100 to 5x114 3?
Before 2015, almost all were, minus the STI's from 2006-2014. In 2015, Subaru went with 5x114. 3 for the WRX and STI both.
What is the bolt pattern on a 2019 Subaru Forester?
The 2019 Subaru Forester has a 5x114.3mm or 5x4.5 inch bolt pattern. This is a change from previous generations, which typically used a 5x100mm pattern. Some very early 2019 models might have had the older pattern, but the 5x114.3mm is the correct one for the 2019 model year's new generation.
- Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm (or 5x4.5 inches)
- Lug Nuts: The thread size for the lug nuts is 12mm x 1.25
- Important Note: This changed from earlier generations of the Forester
What bolt pattern does a 2016 Subaru Forester have?
SUBARU FORESTER WHEEL GALLERY
| Generation | Production Year | Bolt Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Forester SH | 2008 - 2013 | 5x100 |
| Forester SJ | 2012 - 2022 | 5x100 |
| Forester SK | 2018 - 2022 | 5x114.3 |
| Forester SK Facelift | 2021 - 2022 | 5x114.3 |
What wheels will fit my Subaru Forester?
Most Subaru Foresters come with 16'' rims, 17'' rims, 18'' rims, or even 19" rims depending on year model and trim level. Regardless of which size rims you rock on your Forester, we've got a huge selection of wheels ready and waiting for you.
