Ever since I bought my Tesla Model S last year, I’ve wanted to try different wheels.
However, I spent hours searching online for clear information about the bolt pattern and kept finding confusing answers.
If you want to change your Tesla Model S wheels, know the exact bolt pattern measurements.
Getting this wrong can cost you hundreds of dollars in unusable parts.
I’ve tested multiple wheel setups on my Model S and measured everything myself.
In this article, I’ll share:
- The exact bolt pattern specifications
- Which wheels fit perfectly
- Tips for wheel shopping
As a Tesla owner who’s gone through this process, I’ll give you straightforward facts based on real experience.
What is the Bolt Pattern for the Tesla Model S?
The bolt pattern is simply the layout of the holes where your wheel attaches to your car.
It’s like a circle with lug holes spread evenly around it.
Getting this measurement right is crucial—if it’s wrong, your new wheels won’t fit.
The Tesla Model S uses a 5×120 bolt pattern.
Let me break that down:
- The “5” means there are five lug holes
- The “120” is the diameter in millimeters of the circle these holes make
I learned this firsthand when I first tried to change my Model S wheels.
Here’s what you need to check before buying new wheels:
- Lug hole count: Must be exactly five holes
- Bolt circle: Must measure 120mm across
- Center bore: 64.1mm (this matters too)
If a wheel doesn’t match these measurements, don’t buy it – no matter how good the price seems.
I’ve seen too many Tesla owners waste money on wheels that looked right but didn’t fit.
Understanding the Tesla Model S Bolt Pattern and Its Compatibility
Let me share what I’ve learned about wheel compatibility for the Model S.
The 5×120 bolt pattern opens up many wheel options, but you must be careful which ones you choose.
Compatible wheel types for your Tesla Model S include:
- Original Tesla wheels (perfect fit guaranteed)
- BMW wheels with 5×120 pattern
- Many aftermarket wheels are made for luxury cars
I discovered something important: Not all 5×120 wheels will fit your Model S, even if the bolt pattern matches.
You also need to check:
- Wheel offset (how far the wheel sticks out)
- Load rating (must handle the car’s weight)
- Hub bore size (must be 64.1mm or use hub rings)
When I first bought aftermarket wheels, I made a costly mistake.
They had the right bolt pattern but the wrong offset, so they stuck out too far and rubbed against the fenders.
My advice from experience:
- Double-check all measurements
- Ask sellers for Tesla-specific fitment info
- Read reviews from other Model S owners
If you’re unsure about fitment, take a photo of the wheel specs and show it to a Tesla service center.
That’s what I did before my second wheel purchase, and it saved me from another expensive mistake.
Remember: Proper wheel fitment affects your safety and car performance.
It’s better to research it now than deal with problems later.
How to Identify the Correct Bolt Pattern for the Tesla Model S?
Before I show you how to measure, let me list the tools you’ll need:
Required Tools
- Measuring tape or ruler (metric)
- Piece of paper and pencil
- Flashlight
- Optional: Bolt pattern gauge
Here’s my step-by-step guide based on what I’ve learned:
Step 1: Count the Lug Holes
Look at your wheel and count all the lug holes.
The Tesla Model S has five holes.
This is your first number in the bolt pattern.
If you see a different number, you’re looking at the wrong wheel specs.
Step 2: Measure the Bolt Circle
Pick any lug hole as your starting point.
Measure straight across from the center of this hole to the outer edge of the hole on the opposite side.
For the Model S, this should be 120mm.
I made the mistake of measuring edge-to-edge at first – don’t do that.
Step 3: Verify Your Measurements
Take measurements from different holes.
They should all give you the same number.
I always measure at least twice to be sure.
If you get different numbers, start over.
Step 4: Check Both Sides
This might seem extra but check both front and back wheels.
I once found different patterns on a used Tesla because someone had mixed up the wheels.
Remember: Getting this wrong can cost you hundreds of dollars in unusable wheels.
When in doubt, ask a professional to check your measurements.
List of the Correct Bolt Patterns for Tesla Model S
After checking hundreds of Model S vehicles and consulting with Tesla service centers, I’ve put together this detailed list.
All measurements come from real vehicles, not just online specs.
| Model Year | Trim Level | Bolt Pattern | Center Bore | Wheel Size Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-2016 | Base | 5x120mm | 64.1mm | 19″ or 21″ |
| 2012-2016 | Performance | 5x120mm | 64.1mm | 21″ |
| 2017-2020 | All Trims | 5x120mm | 64.1mm | 19″ or 21″ |
| 2021-2023 | Base | 5x120mm | 64.1mm | 19″ or 21″ |
| 2021-2023 | Plaid | 5x120mm | 64.1mm | 19″ or 21″ |
Important Notes:
- All Model S cars use the same bolt pattern
- Wheel size varies by trim level
- Center bore stays constant
- Factory wheels are all hub-centric
I checked these specs myself on different Model S vehicles.
You can trust these measurements for any Model S you own or plan to buy.
Special Cases
- Signature Red Edition (2012): Same 5x120mm pattern
- P100D Models: Same 5x120mm pattern
- Plaid+: Same 5x120mm pattern
Comparisons Between the Tesla Model S and Other Brands’ Bolt Patterns
I’ve tested wheels from several car brands on my Model S.
Here’s what you need to know about compatibility with other popular brands:
| Brand & Models | Bolt Pattern | Compatible with Tesla Model S | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 5 Series | 5x120mm | Yes | Needs hub rings (72.6mm to 64.1mm) |
| BMW 7 Series | 5x120mm | Yes | Check offset and load rating |
| Audi A6/A7 | 5x112mm | No | Different bolt pattern |
| Mercedes E | 5x112mm | No | Different bolt pattern |
| Porsche | 5x130mm | No | Different bolt pattern |
| Volvo S90 | 5x108mm | No | Different bolt pattern |
What I’ve Found Works Best
- BMW wheels are your best option for brand swaps
- Modern Range Rover wheels might fit (check specs)
- Aftermarket wheels made for BMWs often work well
Important Differences to Watch
- Center bore sizes vary between brands
- Load ratings differ significantly
- Wheel offset can be wrong even if patterns match
I learned these details through trial and error.
Although the Mercedes wheels looked similar, they wouldn’t fit.
The BMW wheels worked, but I needed hub rings.
Quick Tips for Cross-Brand Wheel Shopping:
- Always verify the hub bore size
- Check the wheel’s weight rating
- Consider the cost of hub rings
- Confirm the offset measurements
Remember: Just because a wheel shares the 5×120 pattern doesn’t mean it’s safe to use.
Always check all specifications.
How to Maintain Bolt Pattern on Your Tesla Model S?
1. Regular Torque Checks
I check my wheel bolts every 3 months or 3,000 miles.
This simple task keeps my Model S running safely.
You should tighten the bolts to 129 lb-ft (175 Nm).
I use a torque wrench because regular wrenches can’t measure the force.
Over-tightening or under-tightening can damage your wheels or make them unsafe.
2. Proper Installation Steps
When I put my wheels back on, I follow a star pattern for tightening.
This spreads the force evenly. First, hand-tighten all five bolts.
Then, use the torque wrench in a star pattern.
Go around twice to make sure everything’s even.
This method has kept my wheels secure for years.
3. Signs of Problems to Watch
- Vibration in the steering wheel
- Uneven tire wear
- Loose-feeling wheels
- Strange noises when turning
4. Impact on Safety
Wrong bolt pattern maintenance affects your car’s safety.
I learned this when my wheels started making noise.
The problem?
Loose bolts. Your car might pull to one side, wear tires faster, or worse – a wheel could come off.
5. Seasonal Maintenance Tips
During season changes, I do these checks:
- Clean the bolt holes
- Check for rust
- Look at the bolt condition
- Make sure the center bore is clean
6. Professional Inspection Schedule
I take my Model S for checks twice a year. The mechanic looks at:
- Bolt hole condition
- Thread damage
- Hub alignment
- Wheel balance
7. After-Market Wheel Care
If you use after-market wheels like I do, check them more often.
I inspect mine monthly because non-Tesla wheels need extra attention.
Keep the hub rings clean and in good shape.
8. Emergency Kit Must-Haves
Keep these in your car – I learned this from experience:
- Torque wrench
- Basic socket set
- Wheel wedges
- Small brush for cleaning bolt holes
- Copy of correct torque specs
Remember: Good maintenance keeps you safe and saves money on repairs.
I spend about 30 minutes every few months on these checks.
Conclusion
Getting the right bolt pattern for your Tesla Model S matters more than you think.
After experimenting with different wheel setups, I’ve found that sticking to the 5×120 pattern is non-negotiable.
Here’s what I want you to remember:
- Always verify measurements before buying
- Use proper torque settings
- Check your wheels regularly
If you take one thing from my review, spending time to get the right fit now can prevent costly problems later.
I started this journey confused about bolt patterns, but now I can help others avoid the mistakes I made.
Do you need more help?
Your local Tesla service center can verify measurements and recommend trusted wheel brands for your Model S.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Wheel Spacers with My Tesla Model S?
Yes, but only high-quality spacers up to 15mm thick.
Anything larger risks damaging your suspension and affecting safety.
Always buy Tesla-specific spacers.
What Happens If I Mix Different Bolt Pattern Wheels?
Never mix different bolt patterns – it causes severe vibration, uneven tire wear, and dangerous driving conditions.
Always match your Model S’s 5×120 pattern.
Should I Replace My Lug Bolts When Installing New Wheels?
Replace lug bolts every 2-3 wheel changes or if you see rust, thread wear, or damage.
Quality bolts cost less than fixing stripped threads.