What size are the wheel nuts on a Subaru?
The wheel lug nuts on Subarus are not universal; the size depends on model and year. The most common configuration on recent Subarus is M12 x 1.25 with a 60-degree conical seat, paired with a 5x100 mm bolt pattern. Always verify for your exact vehicle before purchasing replacements.
Understanding lug nut sizing on Subaru vehicles
To identify the correct lug nut size for your Subaru, you need to confirm the thread size, seat type, and bolt pattern specific to your model and year. Subarus generally use metric lug nuts, and while M12 x 1.25 is by far the most common, some models may differ. Verifying through official documentation or the existing hardware helps ensure a proper fit and safe operation.
To determine the correct lug nut size for your Subaru, follow these steps:
- Check the owner's manual or service manual for the exact lug nut size, seat type, and torque specifications for your model and year.
- Inspect the lug nuts currently on the vehicle for markings or measurements that indicate thread size or seat type; many nuts have stamped information on the head.
- Measure the wheel stud diameter with calipers to confirm it is 12 mm, which is standard for most Subarus, and determine the thread pitch (1.25 or 1.5) using a thread pitch gauge or by counting threads per millimeter.
- Determine the seat style of the lug nuts (commonly 60-degree conical seats on Subarus) and ensure any replacements match (conical vs. spherical or flat seats).
- If in doubt, contact a Subaru dealer or authorized repair shop with your VIN or model/year to obtain OEM lug nut specifications and torque values.
Conclusion: Once you have the correct size and seat type, use the proper torque specification when reinstalling lug nuts to ensure safety and proper seating of the wheels.
Common patterns and specs you may encounter
The following patterns are commonly seen across Subaru models, but exact specs can vary by year and trim. Use the steps above to confirm for your car.
- Thread size: M12 x 1.25 is the most common on recent Subarus.
- Alternate thread size: M12 x 1.5 may appear on some older models or specific editions; verify for your vehicle.
- Seat type: 60-degree conical seats are standard on many Subarus; aftermarket wheels may require matching seats.
- Bolt pattern: 5x100 mm is typical for most modern Subarus, including Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, and BRZ/TR/GD variants; verify for your exact model.
Conclusion: Check the exact lug nut size and seat type in your vehicle’s documentation or by inspecting the current hardware to ensure compatibility before purchasing replacements.
Torque and installation considerations
After identifying the correct lug nut size and seat, install the nuts and torque them to the specification provided by Subaru for your model and year. Typical torque ranges for passenger Subarus are broadly around 80–100 ft-lbs (108–135 Nm), but always confirm with the owner's manual or a dealer. Recheck torque after driving a short distance or after wheel changes to ensure the nuts have settled properly.
Additionally, use appropriate lube recommendations. Generally, do not apply anti-seize compounds on lug studs or nuts, as they can alter clamping force and lead to under- or over-tightening. Use OEM or manufacturer-approved lug nuts and hardware for best results.
How to verify your specific vehicle’s lug nut size quickly
For a quick check without pulling the wheel off, use these methods:
- Look for stamped markings on an existing lug nut that indicate thread size or seat type.
- Check the service/repair section of Subaru's official site or your owner's manual for your exact model/year and wheel size specs.
- Contact a Subaru dealership or certified repair shop with your VIN to obtain precise specifications.
Conclusion: Quick verification helps avoid ordering the wrong hardware and ensures safe wheel installation.
Summary
There is no single universal lug nut size for all Subaru models. Most modern Subarus use M12 x 1.25 thread with a 60-degree conical seat on a 5x100 bolt pattern, but some models or years may differ (including M12 x 1.5 or other seat types). Always verify with your vehicle’s manual or a dealer, and torque lug nuts to the specified value after installation. When in doubt, rely on OEM parts and guidance to maintain safety and wheel integrity.
