When did Subaru switch to the 5x114.3 bolt pattern?
Subaru has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts, particularly for its all-wheel-drive systems and rally-inspired performance. One of the key specifications that often comes up in discussions about Subaru vehicles is the bolt pattern of their wheels. In this article, we’ll explore when Subaru made the switch to the 5x114.3 bolt pattern and what it means for owners and enthusiasts.
Understanding Bolt Patterns
Before diving into Subaru’s specific timeline, it’s important to understand what a bolt pattern is. A bolt pattern refers to the arrangement of the lug holes on a wheel. The "5x114.3" pattern means there are five lug holes arranged in a circle with a diameter of 114.3 millimeters. This specification is crucial for ensuring that wheels fit securely on a vehicle.
Subaru’s Transition to the 5x114.3 Bolt Pattern
Subaru began using the 5x114.3 bolt pattern on certain performance-oriented models starting with the 2005 model year. Specifically, the Subaru WRX STI was the first to adopt this bolt pattern. Prior to this, most Subaru models, including earlier WRX and Impreza models, used the 5x100 bolt pattern.
The switch to the 5x114.3 bolt pattern was made to improve the durability and performance of the wheel hub assembly, particularly for high-performance applications. The 5x114.3 pattern provides better strength and stability, which is essential for vehicles like the WRX STI that are designed for aggressive driving and motorsport use.
Why the Change Matters
The transition to the 5x114.3 bolt pattern has several implications for Subaru owners and enthusiasts:
- Wheel Compatibility: Owners of 2005 and newer WRX STI models need to ensure they purchase wheels with the correct 5x114.3 bolt pattern. Wheels designed for the older 5x100 pattern will not fit.
- Aftermarket Options: The 5x114.3 bolt pattern is more common across the automotive industry, which means there are more aftermarket wheel options available for these models.
- Performance Benefits: The stronger hub assembly and improved stability make the 5x114.3 pattern ideal for high-performance driving and track use.
Conclusion
Subaru’s switch to the 5x114.3 bolt pattern in 2005 marked a significant step forward for the brand’s performance models. By adopting this more robust pattern, Subaru ensured that its vehicles could handle the demands of spirited driving and motorsport competition. If you’re a Subaru owner or enthusiast, understanding your vehicle’s bolt pattern is essential for maintaining compatibility and maximizing performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Subaru bolt patterns the same?
Most Subaru cars use either a 5×100 or 5×114.3 pattern. The first number, '5,' means five lug holes. The second number (100 or 114.3) shows how wide the circle is in millimeters. I measured my 2012 Impreza, and it has the 5×100 pattern, while my friend's newer WRX uses the 5×114.3 setup.
Which vehicles use 5x114 3 bolt pattern?
5×114.3, also known as 5×4.5 is a very common bolt pattern used on many Honda, Nissan, Infiniti, Lexus, Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, and more. What cars have a 114.3 bolt pattern? There are thousands of automobiles on the road with 5x114 bolt patterns.
What's the bolt pattern on a 2017 Subaru Forester?
5x114.3
SUBARU FORESTER WHEEL GALLERY
| Generation | Production Year | Bolt Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Forester SH | 2008 - 2013 | 5x100 |
| Forester SJ | 2012 - 2022 | 5x100 |
| Forester SK | 2018 - 2022 | 5x114.3 |
| Forester SK Facelift | 2021 - 2022 | 5x114.3 |
What is the bolt pattern on a Subaru SUV?
SUBARU FORESTER WHEEL GALLERY
| Generation | Production Year | Bolt Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Forester SH | 2008 - 2013 | 5x100 |
| Forester SJ | 2012 - 2022 | 5x100 |
| Forester SK | 2018 - 2022 | 5x114.3 |
| Forester SK Facelift | 2021 - 2022 | 5x114.3 |
What cars have a 5x114.3 bolt pattern?
5×114.3, also known as 5×4.5 is a very common bolt pattern used on many Honda, Nissan, Infiniti, Lexus, Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, and more. What cars have a 114.3 bolt pattern? There are thousands of automobiles on the road with 5x114 bolt patterns.
What is the bolt pattern on a 2019 Subaru Outback?
5x114.3
Two different bolt patterns are available depending on the year of your Subaru Outback. For anything older than 2014, your bolt pattern is 5x100. Newer than 2014, you'll need a 5x114. 3 bolt pattern.
What subarus have a 5x114.3 bolt pattern?
The 5x114. 3 bolt pattern also works on Subaru's CUV/SUVs such as the Forester, Outback and Ascent.
What is the bolt pattern on a 2014 Subaru Forester?
5x100 mm
Wheel Bolt Pattern Guide
| Bolt Pattern | 5x100 mm |
|---|---|
| Hub Bore | 56.1 |
| Nut or Bolt | nut |
| Nut Bolt Thread Type | M12x1.25 |
| Nut Bolt Hex | 19 |
What lug pattern is a 2014 Subaru Outback?
What size bolt pattern does a Subaru Outback have? Up until more recent model years, most Subaru Outbacks came with a 5x100 bolt pattern. As of 2015, Subaru Outbacks now feature a 5x114. 3 bolt pattern.
When did Subaru change to 5x114?
Before 2015, almost all were, minus the STI's from 2006-2014. In 2015, Subaru went with 5x114.
