Whats the lug nut pattern?
The lug nut pattern, also known as the bolt pattern, is the arrangement and spacing of a vehicle’s wheel studs. It is typically described as the number of bolts and the diameter of the circle they form, for example 5x114.3 mm. This specification is critical for wheel compatibility and safe mounting.
What is a lug nut pattern?
A lug nut pattern describes two things: the number of lug studs (or bolts) on the hub and the circle diameter that connects their centers. It is usually written as a pair like 5x114.3 mm (five bolts on a 114.3 mm bolt circle). The bolt circle is the fundamental metric used by wheel makers and retailers to determine fit. In addition to the bolt pattern, technicians also consider the center bore size and the thread pitch, as all three factors impact proper seating and safety.
Common lug patterns
Below is a snapshot of patterns you’re most likely to encounter. Patterns vary by vehicle class, market, and year, so always verify with official documentation for your specific model.
- 4-lug patterns: 4x100 mm and 4x114.3 mm bolt circles are common on smaller cars and certain European or Asian models.
- 5-lug patterns: The most widespread for passenger cars, with common examples including 5x100 mm, 5x112 mm, 5x114.3 mm, and 5x120 mm.
- 6-lug patterns: Found on a range of trucks, SUVs, and some larger cars, such as 6x139.7 mm (6x5.5 inches) and, on some applications, 6x135 mm.
- Other specialized patterns: Some brands use 5x127 mm (5x5.0 inches) or 5x130 mm for specific models; Porsche has used 5x130 in certain lines, for example. There are also older or niche patterns outside these common groups.
Understanding these patterns helps you quickly assess wheel options, but it’s essential to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle year and trim before purchasing wheels or adapters.
How to measure your lug pattern
When in doubt, measure or look up the official specification. Here are practical steps you can follow:
- Count the number of lug nuts or studs on the wheel hub to determine the pattern’s N (e.g., 4, 5, 6).
- Measure the bolt circle diameter by drawing a line through the centers of two opposite studs and measuring the distance across. This gives the PCD (pitch circle diameter) in millimeters or inches.
- Record the value in the same unit used by your vehicle’s documentation (most modern catalogs use millimeters for PCD and inches for some markets can vary).
- Check the center bore size (the hole in the wheel that centers on the hub) and the thread pitch of the lug studs, since these also affect fitment and seating.
- Verify the exact specification with the owner’s manual, manufacturer’s site, VIN-based parts database, or a trusted retailer to ensure a precise match.
With the bolt pattern confirmed, you can evaluate wheel options that specify the same lug pattern, center bore, and thread pitch. If you’re uncertain, seek professional assistance to avoid mounting issues.
Additional considerations: center bore and thread pitch
Even when bolt patterns match, wheels must fit the hub’s center bore and use the correct thread pitch. A wheel with a larger center bore can be centered with rings; a mismatched thread pitch can cause unsafe mounting and damage. Some wheels are hub-centric, while others rely on lug nuts for centering, so verify the full fitment specs before purchasing.
Summary
In short, the lug nut pattern is the number of studs and the diameter of the circle they create on the hub, commonly written as a format like 5x114.3 mm. It is one of several critical fitment specifications you must verify when choosing wheels. To determine yours, count the studs, measure the bolt circle diameter, and confirm center bore size and thread pitch against official documentation or a trusted parts database. Accurate matching ensures proper seating, safety, and performance.
How do I know my lug pattern?
Even Lug Number: Measure from the center of one lug to the center of the opposite lug. When shopping for a wheel, you'll see a number like this: 8 x 6.5. This means you have 8 lugs with a 6.5-inch measurement. This same pattern could also be expressed as 8 x 165mm.
What is a 5 lug pattern?
The industry standard is the 5 lug on 4.5 inches (545) bolt pattern, with the 5 lug on 5 inches (550) pattern as the secondary standard. These patterns are crucial for the fitting of wheels to axles, impacting the ease of installation and the range of available parts.
What cars are 5x114 3 wheels?
The most popular cars with PCD 5x114,3 are: Honda Civic oraz Accord, Nissan Qashqai, Dacia Duster, Hyundai i30 and x35, Renault Megane III and Laguna III, Kia Cee'd, Sportage and Venga, Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander and ASX, Toyota Auris and Avensis III, Citroen C-Crosser, Suzuki SX4, Fiat Sedici, Mazda 3.
What cars have 4x100 wheels?
The most popular cars with PCD 4x100 are: Vauxhall Corsa, Fiat Grande Punto, Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris oraz Aygo, Suzuki Swift, Nissan Micra and Note, Chevrolet Spark and Aveo, Skoda Citigo and Volkswagen up! Configurating tool on our website allows you to find a suitable steel wheel in just a couple of seconds.
