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What size is the thread on a wheel bolt?

The size of the thread on a wheel bolt is typically measured in millimeters (mm) and is a critical specification for ensuring proper fit and safety when installing wheels on a vehicle. The most common wheel bolt thread sizes are M12 x 1.5 and M14 x 1.5, which indicate the diameter (12 mm or 14 mm) and the thread pitch (1.5 mm).


Understanding Wheel Bolt Thread Sizes


Wheel bolts are used to secure the wheels to the vehicle's hubs, and the thread size must match the specifications of the vehicle and the wheels being installed. The thread size is typically stamped or engraved on the bolt head, and it's important to ensure that the replacement bolts have the correct size to ensure a secure and safe fit.


The first number in the thread size (e.g., M12 or M14) refers to the diameter of the bolt, while the second number (e.g., 1.5) refers to the thread pitch, which is the distance between each thread. The thread pitch is measured in millimeters, so a 1.5 mm pitch means that the threads are spaced 1.5 mm apart.


Common Wheel Bolt Thread Sizes



  • M12 x 1.5: This is one of the most common wheel bolt thread sizes, used on many passenger vehicles and light trucks.

  • M14 x 1.5: This slightly larger thread size is often found on larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs.

  • Other less common sizes include M10 x 1.25, M16 x 1.5, and M18 x 1.5, which may be used on specialized or older vehicles.


It's essential to always check the vehicle's owner's manual or consult with a professional to determine the correct wheel bolt thread size for your specific vehicle. Using the wrong size can lead to wheel separation, which can be extremely dangerous.

What size are my lug nuts?


Most manuals will specify the size and type of lug nuts required for the vehicle. But if you don't have access to your owner's manual, you can check the side of the wheel nut to see if the size is imprinted on it. That's most common for nuts that have a chrome cap fitted over the lug nut, but it's a possibility.



What socket size for lug nuts?


If the question “what size of sockets for lug nuts should I use” comes to your mind; the most common socket sizes for lug nuts are 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm, and 22 mm, all available at Olsa Tools. The 11/16-inch, 3/4-inch, 13/16-inch, and 7/8-inch SAE socket sizes also are fairly common.



What thread are wheel bolts?


Depending on the manufacturer, the most common thread standards for wheel bolt threads are the metric fine thread MF or its American counterpart, the inch-based Unified National Fine Thread (UNF).



What is the thread width of a wheel?


Thread width is the measurement between the edges of a tire's tread design. It gives the approximate size of the tire's "contact patch" with the ground. (The contact patch will change with vehicle weight and tire inflation.)



What is thread size on wheels?


The thread size or thread diameter is the measurement taken across the outside diameter of your wheel stud threads measured in either standard (7/16″, 1/2″, etc.) or metric (12mm, 14mm, etc.) dimensions. The most common thread sizes are 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″.



Are all lug nut threads the same size?


While lug nuts vary in size and thread pitch, one of the most important differences in lug nut type is in the contact point where the lug nut meets the wheel, AKA the lug nut seat. It's crucial that the lug nut seat and the wheel lug seat match.



What size are wheel nut bolts?


The wheel bolt shaft diameter is the thickness of the bolt shaft itself, under the seating of the bolt. This is usually 12, 14 or 16mm. The wheel bolt thread is measurement between each thread. This is usually 1.25, 1.5 or 1.75mm.



What is the size of the wheel tread?


Typical tread depth gauges will measure in 32nds of an inch, or 25-26 in millimeters. Some gauges have a needle-like design with a portion that expands to measure tread depth. Because tires wear unevenly, measurements should be taken in different locations around the tire.



What size are wheel threads?


The most common thread sizes are 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″. You can find most factory stud sizes in your vehicle owner's manual or you can use online guides.



What size socket for lug nuts?


If the question “what size of sockets for lug nuts should I use” comes to your mind; the most common socket sizes for lug nuts are 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm, and 22 mm, all available at Olsa Tools. The 11/16-inch, 3/4-inch, 13/16-inch, and 7/8-inch SAE socket sizes also are fairly common.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.