What stud pattern are Subaru STI wheels?
The stock wheels fitted to Subaru STI models use a 5x100 bolt pattern, meaning five lug studs are arranged on a circle with a 100 mm diameter. This is the standard pattern for most modern Subarus, including the STI, and it determines which wheels will bolt up to the hub without adapters.
For readers considering wheel upgrades or swaps, it's important to understand this bolt pattern and related fitment details, because a mismatch can prevent proper mounting or seating. The following sections explain the bolt pattern in context, common measurements, and practical steps to verify compatibility for specific model years and aftermarket options.
Bolt pattern basics
Understanding what the 5x100 pattern means helps you assess fitment, brake clearance, and alignment. The pattern is defined by two things: the number of bolts and the diameter of the circle they form.
What 5x100 means
5x100 indicates five lug holes on a circle with a 100 millimeter diameter. This determines whether a wheel will bolt to the hub without adapters and influences caliper clearance and brake rotor positioning.
Center bore and hub-centric fit
The center bore is the hole in the middle of the wheel that fits over the hub. For most Subaru OEM wheels, the bore is around 56.1 mm. If a aftermarket wheel has a larger bore, hub-centric rings are often used to center the wheel properly on the hub and reduce vibrations.
Key practical details you should verify before purchasing STI wheels or suitable aftermarket wheels include the following:
- Bolt pattern: 5x100
- Center bore: typically 56.1 mm (OEM); hub rings may be needed if bore differs
- Hub-centric design: OEM STI wheels are hub-centric to the Subaru hub; some aftermarket wheels are lug-centric and may require rings
- Common compatibility: 5x100 is shared across many Subaru models (Impreza, WRX, STI) across generations
Verifying these specs helps ensure a proper fit and safe driving experience. When mismatches occur, wheel vibration or improper seating can result.
Generational notes and compatibility
Subaru STI wheels have largely maintained a 5x100 bolt pattern across generations, but minor differences in center bore size and offset can affect fitment. Always confirm the exact specifications for your model year and wheel type.
- Early STI generations commonly use a 5x100 pattern with a center bore near 56.1 mm
- Recent STI generations continue 5x100, with offsets varying by wheel design
- Aftermarket wheels designed for STI compatibility are often labeled for 5x100 and may require hub rings if bore differs
In practice, sticking with OEM wheels or certified aftermarket wheels designed for 5x100 generally ensures compatibility with Subaru STI hubs and brakes, but always verify the exact wheel model and year.
How to verify compatibility for your STI
To avoid surprises when swapping wheels, perform these checks on the specific wheel and vehicle pair you intend to use.
- Confirm bolt pattern: ensure the wheel is 5x100
- Measure center bore: confirm bore size matches or that hub rings are available if it does not
- Check offset and width: ensure the wheel’s offset and width clear brakes, calipers, and fenders
- Determine hub-centric requirement: confirm if hub rings are needed for exact fit
When in doubt, consult the wheel manufacturer or a qualified tire shop, and consider a professional fitment before driving on new wheels.
Practical buying tips
Before purchasing STI wheels, use these guidelines to avoid common fitment pitfalls.
- Prefer wheels explicitly listed as compatible with your STI model year or 5x100-compatible aftermarket options
- Choose hub-centric wheels to minimize vibrations and ensure accurate seating on Subaru hubs
- Follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications and use the correct lug nuts and seating style for the wheel
With the right checks, you can avoid issues like brake clearance problems, improper seating, or vibrations at speed.
Summary
Subaru STI wheels traditionally use a 5x100 bolt pattern, typically paired with a center bore around 56.1 mm and hub-centric mounting. When upgrading or swapping wheels, verify bolt pattern, center bore, offset, and hub-centric requirements for your exact model year. By confirming these specs, you can ensure proper fitment, safety, and performance.
