What is the center bore size of a wheel?

The center bore size is the diameter of the hole in the wheel that fits over the vehicle’s hub. The exact size is specified by the vehicle or wheel manufacturer and varies widely—from about 50 mm to 75 mm or more—so matching the bore to the hub is essential for proper centering and load transfer.

Understanding the center bore

The center bore serves two main purposes: it centers the wheel on the hub (hub-centric design) and helps distribute torque evenly when the wheel is bolted to the hub. If the wheel bore is too small, it cannot fit; if it’s larger than the hub, a gap can allow the wheel to move slightly during operation, potentially causing vibration. Some wheels are designed to be hub-centric, relying on an exact bore size, while others are lug-centric and rely more on lug nuts for centering. In cases where the bore is larger than the hub, engineers often use a hub-centric ring to restore precise alignment.

Hub-centric vs lug-centric

Hub-centric wheels have a bore that matches the vehicle’s hub precisely, so the hub itself centers the wheel. Lug-centric wheels use the lug nuts (or bolts) to center the wheel, and gaps between the hub and bore can lead to minor misalignment. When substituting wheels, it’s important to know which design your vehicle expects and whether a hub-centric ring is needed to achieve proper centering.

How to measure and verify the bore

To determine the correct bore for a wheel, you need to verify both the wheel’s bore size and the vehicle’s hub size. The following steps outline a practical approach:

Before proceeding with the list, note that accurate bore matching is essential for safety and ride quality. Follow these steps to verify fit before installation.



• Consult the vehicle’s official specifications or owner's manual for the wheel bore size of your model. Manufacturers often publish hub bore data for wheels and tires.


• Check the wheel documentation or stamping on the wheel itself for its bore size (often listed in millimeters).


• Measure the wheel bore with a precise tool (such as a caliper) across multiple points to confirm it is round and within tolerance.


• Measure the wheel hub diameter on the vehicle, or consult manufacturer data for the hub size of your model.


• Compare the two measurements: the wheel bore should be the same as the hub diameter or larger. If the bore is larger, a hub-centric ring may be required to center the wheel properly.


• Verify that the bolt pattern and mounting surface of the wheel match the vehicle’s lug arrangement and hub surface; a correct bore alone does not guarantee a safe fit.

Concluding paragraph: When bore and hub match—or when an appropriate hub-centric ring is used—the wheel will sit true on the hub, reducing the risk of vibrations, uneven wear, and compromised handling.

Common ranges and practical notes

Center bore sizes vary by vehicle type and region. In practice, most passenger cars fall within a broad range, with many common bore sizes in the mid to upper 50s millimeters, while SUVs and light trucks may require larger bores. Always rely on official specifications for your specific model and wheel, and consider professional installation if you are unsure about centering or compatibility.

Summary

The center bore size of a wheel is the critical diameter that determines how well the wheel fits over the vehicle’s hub. Correct sizing ensures proper centering, load transfer, and ride quality. To verify fit, check manufacturer specifications, measure bore and hub diameters with precision tools, and consider hub-centric rings if needed. Always ensure compatibility of bore size, bolt pattern, and overall wheel specifications to maintain safety and performance.

Does wheel center bore need to be exact?

Match the Center Bore to the Hub Size
The best option is to find wheels with a center bore that exactly matches your vehicle's hub. OEM wheels usually have the correct center bore size, but if you're purchasing aftermarket wheels, verify the center bore measurement to ensure compatibility.

How do I know my center bore size?

To measure a center bore, place the wheel face down, use digital calipers or a tape measure to find the internal diameter of the central hole, and record the measurement in millimeters. An accurate measurement ensures the wheel will fit your vehicle's hub correctly.
 
Step 1: Prepare the wheel

• Place the wheel flat on a protected surface with the backside facing up to avoid scratching the finish. 

This video demonstrates how to prepare the wheel and find the center bore: 59sTahir ShaikhYouTube · Jan 20, 2024
Step 2: Choose your tool

• Digital calipers: This is the most accurate method for most applications. 
• Tape measure: A standard tape measure can work but may be less precise. 
• Bore gauge: A specialized tool designed for measuring inside diameters, which is very accurate for larger or more critical applications. 

Step 3: Take the measurement

• For calipers: Open the caliper's inside jaws and spread them across the center of the bore until they touch the edges. The digital display will give you the measurement. 
• For a tape measure: Stretch the tape across the center of the bore, measuring the widest part. Try to get the tape as straight as possible to ensure accuracy. 
• For a bore gauge: Insert the gauge into the bore, extend the anvils until they make contact with the edges, and then read the measurement. 

This video shows how to use a digital caliper to measure the wheel's center bore: 1mCar LuvversYouTube · Feb 3, 2024
Step 4: Record the measurement 

• Note the measurement in millimeters (mm), as this is the standard unit for wheel and hub measurements. 

What's the bore size on a rim?

The make then the model. Body and trim level. And search by wheels. Next thing you'll want to do is select your desired wheel. Size click on OEM specs.

What is the center bore of a wheel?

The center bore of a wheel is the hole in the center that centers the wheel on the vehicle's hub, and it's crucial for a vibration-free ride. For aftermarket wheels with a larger center bore, a spigot ring (also called a hub-centric ring) is used to fill the gap and ensure a proper, centered fit. The center bore is measured in millimeters (mm) and must match the vehicle's hub diameter for a correct fit.
 
This video explains what center bore is and why it's important for a car's wheel: 55sauto123YouTube · May 25, 2011
Importance of a proper fit

• Preventing vibration: Modern vehicles use a "hub-centric" system, meaning the wheel relies on the hub for centering, not just the lug nuts. A wheel that is not perfectly centered can cause vibrations that are noticeable while driving. 
• Aftermarket wheels: Aftermarket wheels are often made with a universal, larger center bore to fit a range of vehicles. This is why spigot rings are so common—they adapt the larger wheel bore to a smaller vehicle hub. 

How to ensure a proper fit

• Check your car's hub size: You can find your vehicle's specific hub size, often in millimeters (mm), online or by checking your car's specifications. 
• Match the wheel center bore: Aftermarket wheels will list their center bore diameter, which is usually a universal size (e.g., 73.173.173.1 mm). 
• Use spigot rings: If the wheel's center bore is larger than your car's hub, you need spigot rings to fill the gap and ensure the wheel is mounted correctly. 
• Tighten lug nuts correctly: After the wheel is seated on the hub with the spigot ring, tighten the lug nuts properly. The lug nuts will secure the wheel, but the spigot ring ensures it's perfectly centered. 

This video shows how to measure the bolt pattern of a wheel: 58sCurrie EnterprisesYouTube · Jul 14, 2020