What is the bolt pattern on a Subaru rim?
The bolt pattern on a Subaru rim refers to the arrangement and number of lug bolts or studs that secure the wheel to the vehicle's hub. This pattern is an important consideration when replacing or upgrading wheels on a Subaru, as it ensures the new wheels will properly fit and function with the vehicle.
What is a Bolt Pattern?
A bolt pattern, also known as a lug pattern, is the specific configuration of lug bolts or studs on a vehicle's wheel hub. This pattern determines the number of bolts and their spacing, which must match the wheel in order for it to be properly mounted and secured.
Subaru Bolt Pattern Specifications
The standard bolt pattern for most Subaru models is 5x100mm. This means the wheel has 5 lug bolts or studs arranged in a circular pattern with a diameter of 100 millimeters. Some Subaru models, particularly higher-performance variants, may use a 5x114.3mm bolt pattern instead.
- 5x100mm: The most common Subaru bolt pattern, found on models like the Impreza, Outback, and Forester.
- 5x114.3mm: A slightly larger bolt pattern used on some higher-end Subaru models, such as the WRX and STI.
It's important to verify the correct bolt pattern for your specific Subaru model before purchasing replacement wheels or tires.
Why Bolt Pattern Matters
The bolt pattern is critical for the proper and safe installation of wheels on a Subaru. If the bolt pattern of the new wheel does not match the vehicle's hub, the wheel will not fit correctly and could become loose or detached while driving, posing a serious safety hazard.
Ensuring the correct bolt pattern is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the wheel-to-hub connection and preventing potential accidents or damage to the vehicle.
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 stud pattern is Subaru?
Identify Which Wheel/Rim Suits Your Trailer Hubs Using PCD or Stud Measurement
| Wheel Type | Stud Qty | PCD (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru | 5 | 100.00 |
| Nissan Navara D40 | 6 | 114.30 |
| Ford Ranger | 6 | 139.70 |
| Landcruiser | 6 | 139.70 |
What does +35 mean for rims?
On car wheels, +35 refers to a positive offset of 35mm, which indicates the wheel's mounting surface is 35mm toward the front (or outside) of the wheel's centerline. This measurement determines how far the wheel sits inside or outside the fender, with positive offsets pushing the wheel further out compared to zero or negative offsets.
How it works
- Offset: This is the distance, measured in millimeters, between the wheel's hub mounting surface and its geometric centerline.
- Centerline: You can find the centerline by measuring the wheel's total width and dividing it by two.
- Positive Offset (+35positive 35+35): The mounting surface is on the "front" or "street" side of the centerline. The +35mm measurement means the mounting surface is 35mm out from the centerline.
- Other types:
- Zero Offset: The mounting surface is exactly at the centerline.
- Negative Offset: The mounting surface is on the "back" or "brake" side of the centerline, making the wheel stick out further. A wheel that is "deep dish" often has a negative offset.
Why offset is important
- Fitment: The correct offset is crucial for ensuring the wheel and tire clear the vehicle's suspension, brake calipers, and fenders.
- Handling: An incorrect offset can negatively affect handling, steering, and suspension components by putting extra stress on parts like wheel bearings and tie rods, and can even cause tires to rub.
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.
