Knowing the bolt pattern starts with getting the right wheels for your Subaru Forester.
Many car owners feel stuck shopping for wheels because they don’t understand these measurements.
I’ve spent 15 years working with Subaru vehicles, and I’ll help you figure this out.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The exact bolt pattern numbers for your Forester
- How to measure your car’s bolt pattern correctly
- Which wheels will fit your specific model
Incorrect wheel fitment can lead to safety issues and poor handling.
But don’t worry – after reading this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for when buying wheels for your Forester.
I’ll summarize everything in simple terms, using real examples from different Forester models from 1997 to 2024.
The guide is based on official Subaru technical data and my hands-on experience with hundreds of Forester wheel installations.
What is the Bolt Pattern for the Subaru Forester?
A bolt pattern shows the number of lug holes on your wheel and how far apart they are.
Think of it as a circle with points where the wheel attaches to your car.
For all Subaru Foresters, the bolt pattern is 5×100.
Let me break this down:
- The “5” means there are five lug holes
- The “100” shows the circle diameter in millimeters
- This pattern has stayed the same since 1997
Why does this matter?
The wrong bolt pattern means your wheels won’t fit. It’s like trying to put square pegs in round holes – it won’t work.
I’ve seen many Forester owners buy wheels that look great but don’t fit.
You need both numbers to match exactly: the number of lugs and the circle size.
Even being off by a few millimeters can make a wheel unusable.
Here’s what you need to check when buying wheels:
- Confirm the wheel has five lug holes
- Verify the bolt circle is exactly 100mm
- Make sure the center bore matches (56.1mm for Foresters)
This pattern lets you fit wheels from many other Subaru models, too.
But always double-check the specs before buying. A perfect fit keeps you safe and your car running smoothly.
Remember: The bolt pattern is just one part of wheel fitment.
You’ll also need to consider wheel offset and size – but we’ll cover those topics next.
Understanding Subaru Forester Bolt Patterns and Their Compatibility
Let me show you how Forester bolt patterns work with different wheels.
I’ve helped hundreds of owners find the right fit, and here’s what you need to know.
1. The Basic Numbers
Your Forester uses a 5×100 bolt pattern.
But you might see other patterns like 5×114.3 when shopping for wheels. Here’s the difference:
- 5×100: Standard Forester pattern
- 5×114.3: Won’t fit your Forester
- Both numbers must match exactly
2. What Wheels Will Fit?
You can use wheels from these Subaru models on your Forester:
- Impreza (2002-2014)
- Legacy (1990-2004)
- WRX (2002-2014)
- BRZ (all years)
3. Important Measurements
The right bolt pattern is just the start. You’ll also need:
- Center bore: 56.1mm
- Lug nut size: 12×1.25mm
- Wheel offset: +48mm to +55mm
4. Why These Numbers Matter
I’ve seen what happens when wheels don’t fit right.
Too much offset can rub your fenders. Too little can make your car handle poorly.
The right bolt pattern keeps your wheels secure and safe.
Quick Tips for Wheel Shopping
- Always measure twice before buying
- Check both bolt pattern numbers
- Look at the center bore size
- Consider hub-centric rings if needed
Safety Note: Your wheels can support up to two tons of car weight, so it’s important to get the right fit.
Don’t try to modify the wheels to fit—it’s not worth the risk.
List of the Correct Bolt Patterns for Different Subaru Forester Models
I’ve put together a complete list of Forester bolt patterns by year.
This will help you quickly find the right pattern for your model.
Let me break it down by generation.
First Generation to Current Models (1997-2024)
| Year Range | Model Generation | Bolt Pattern | Center Bore | Lug Nuts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997-2002 | First Gen (SF) | 5x100mm | 56.1mm | 12×1.25 |
| 2003-2008 | Second Gen (SG) | 5x100mm | 56.1mm | 12×1.25 |
| 2009-2013 | Third Gen (SH) | 5x100mm | 56.1mm | 12×1.25 |
| 2014-2018 | Fourth Gen (SJ) | 5x100mm | 56.1mm | 12×1.25 |
| 2019-2024 | Fifth Gen (SK) | 5x100mm | 56.1mm | 12×1.25 |
Special Trim Levels
| Year | Trim Level | Bolt Pattern | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Years | Base | 5x100mm | Standard wheels |
| All Years | Premium | 5x100mm | Alloy wheels |
| All Years | Sport | 5x100mm | Larger wheels |
| All Years | Touring | 5x100mm | Premium wheels |
Quick Reference for Wheel Shopping:
- Pattern: Always 5x100mm
- Stud size: 12×1.25mm
- Center bore: 56.1mm
Remember: While the bolt pattern stays the same, wheel sizes and offsets can vary by model year.
How to Identify the Correct Bolt Pattern for a Specific Subaru Forester Model
Let me show you three simple ways to find your Forester’s bolt pattern.
I’ve taught hundreds of car owners these methods, and they work every time.
Method 1: Direct Measurement
You’ll need:
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Paper and pencil
- 15 minutes of time
Steps:
- Park your car safely
- Remove one wheel
- Measure from the center of one lug hole to the center of the opposite hole
- Write down the measurement in millimeters
- Count the total lug holes
Method 2: Using Your VIN
- Find your 17-digit VIN on the dashboard
- Look up the number on Subaru’s website
- Check the wheel specs in the results
Method 3: Check Your Manual
- Open your owner’s manual
- Look in the “Specifications” section
- Find “Wheels and Tires”
Helpful Tools to Use:
- Digital calipers (most exact)
- Bolt pattern gauge (fastest)
- Online VIN decoder (easiest)
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Don’t measure edge to edge – always measure center to center
- Don’t guess based on looks
- Don’t skip double-checking your measurements
- Don’t assume all years are the same
I always tell people: When in doubt, measure again.
It’s better to spend an extra five minutes measuring than to buy wheels that don’t fit.
Need Extra Help?
Your local Subaru dealer can provide the exact specs for your model.
Just bring your VIN, and they’ll tell you everything you need to know about your wheel requirements.
Remember: While all Foresters use a 5×100 pattern, verifying your specific model is still smart.
This keeps you safe and saves money on returns.
Comparison Between Subaru Forester’s and Other Brands’ Bolt Patterns
I’ve compared countless wheel setups over the years.
Here’s how your Forester’s bolt pattern compares to other cars. This will help you understand your wheel options.
Common Brand Comparison Table
| Brand & Model | Bolt Pattern | Compatible with Forester? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 | 5×114.3 | No | Too large |
| Honda CR-V | 5×114.3 | No | Too large |
| Mazda CX-5 | 5×114.3 | No | Too large |
| VW Golf | 5×100 | Yes | Needs correct offset |
| Audi A4 (Pre-2008) | 5×100 | Yes | Check center bore |
| Toyota GT86 | 5×100 | Yes | Direct fit |
| Scion FR-S | 5×100 | Yes | Direct fit |
Cars That Share Forester’s 5×100 Pattern
| Make | Models | Years | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen | Golf, Jetta | 1998-2014 | Center bore differs |
| Audi | TT, A3 | 1999-2006 | Hub rings needed |
| Toyota | GT86, BRZ | All years | Perfect match |
| Subaru | WRX, Impreza | 2002-2014 | Perfect match |
What Makes This Helpful:
- You can find wheels from multiple brands
- More options for style and price
- A wider selection of sizes
I recommend checking these measurements before buying:
- Center bore size
- Wheel offset
- Load rating
How to Maintain Bolt Patterns on Your Subaru Forester
Let me share some basic care tips for your wheel bolts.
I’ve seen minor bolt problems become major headaches, but simple maintenance can prevent most issues.
1. Regular Checks
Check these items every 3 months or 3,000 miles:
- Look for rust on lug nuts
- Check for loose bolts
- Inspect for damaged threads
- Clean any dirt buildup
2. The Right Way to Clean
- Remove one wheel at a time
- Wipe each bolt with a clean cloth
- Use a wire brush for stuck-on dirt
- Clean the mounting surface
- Put everything back dry – no oil or grease
3. Proper Torque Steps
- Hand-tighten all lug nuts
- Use a torque wrench set to 89 foot pounds
- Work in a star pattern
- Check again after 50 miles
4. Common Problems to Watch For
- Rust around bolt holes
- Cross-threaded nuts
- Rounded edges on nuts
- Bent or damaged studs
5. Big Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use an impact wrench
- Never skip the torque wrench
- Don’t reuse old lug nuts
- Never use other car’s lug nuts
6. When to Call a Pro
- If you hear clicking while driving
- When nuts keep coming loose
- If you see rust or damage
- After hitting big bumps or curbs
Quick Safety Checks:
Test your lug nuts monthly:
- Park on flat ground
- Use a basic lug wrench
- Try to tighten each nut
- Mark any that moved
Conclusion
Now you know that every Forester uses a 5×100 bolt pattern – it’s that simple.
I’ve shown you how to check your pattern, find matching wheels, and keep your bolts in good shape.
The right bolt pattern means:
- Your wheels stay secure
- Your car handles properly
- You can find wheels that fit
Remember to check the pattern and torque specs when working on your wheels.
Write down 89 foot-pounds—the magic number for tightening lug nuts.
Keep this guide handy when shopping for new wheels.
You can find it at the tire shop or when browsing online. If you’re ever unsure, measure your bolt pattern for five minutes.
Those few minutes could save you from buying wheels that don’t fit.
Stay safe out there, and happy driving!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Wheels With a Different Bolt Pattern on My Subaru Forester?
No.
Using wheels with an incompatible bolt pattern can cause safety issues and damage.
Always ensure the bolt pattern matches your Forester’s specifications.
How Do I Measure a Bolt Pattern on My Subaru Forester?
Measure the distance between the centers of two opposite bolts in a star pattern.
The measurement determines the bolt pattern.
Are All Subaru Forester Bolt Patterns the Same?
No, older models typically use a 5×100 pattern, while newer ones often use 5×114.3.
Always verify your specific model’s specifications.
What Tools Are Needed to Measure a Bolt Pattern?
You’ll need a ruler, calipers, or a bolt pattern gauge to measure accurately.
These tools ensure precise results for identifying the correct bolt pattern.
Can I Change the Bolt Pattern on My Subaru Forester?
Yes, adapters can change the bolt pattern, but they may affect wheel alignment and safety.
Consult a professional before making modifications.