Wheel bolt patterns might seem like a small detail on your Subaru.
But they matter a lot. I learned this when I tried to get new wheels for my Impreza.
Each Subaru has a specific way in which its wheels attach to the car. It’s like a fingerprint – unique and important.
The bolt pattern affects how well your car stays on the road. It keeps your wheels firmly in place.
This is extra important for Subarus since they’re known for handling all types of roads and weather.
When you want to change your Subaru’s wheels, knowing the right bolt pattern saves you time and money.
It also keeps you safe on your daily drives.
What is the Bolt Pattern for a Subaru?
Let me explain bolt patterns in simple terms.
When I check my Subaru’s wheels, I see a circle of holes where the wheel connects to the car. These are called lug holes.
The bolt pattern tells us two things: how many holes there are and how big the circle is.
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.
Understanding Subaru Bolt Patterns and Their Compatibility
I’ve learned that Subaru chooses its bolt patterns carefully. These patterns do more than just hold wheels in place.
They help keep the car stable when I’m driving through rain or snow. The five-lug design makes sure the wheel’s weight spreads out evenly.
This matters even more because Subarus has all-wheel drive. The right bolt pattern helps each wheel grip the road properly.
When I’m turning corners or driving on wet roads, these patterns work with the all-wheel drive to keep my car steady.
That’s why using the correct pattern when changing wheels is so important.
List of the Correct Bolt Pattern for a Different Subaru Model
| Subaru Model | Years | Bolt Pattern | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ascent | 2019 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | All trims have the same pattern |
| BRZ | 2012 – Present | 5×100 mm | No pattern changes across years |
| Crosstrek | 2013 – 2023 | 5×100 mm | Original model to GT Facelift |
| Crosstrek | 2022 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | New GU model only |
| Forester | 1997 – 2022 | 5×100 mm | SF, SG, SH, SJ models |
| Forester | 2018 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | SK models and newer |
| Impreza | 1992 – 2022 | 5×100 mm | All G1 to G5 models |
| Impreza | 2023 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | New GU model |
| Legacy | 1989 – 2014 | 5×100 mm | All early generations |
| Legacy | 2015 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | All new models |
| Outback | 1995 – 2014 | 5×100 mm | All early generations |
| Outback | 2014 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | All new models |
| WRX/STI | 2015 – Present | 5×114.3 mm | All new models |
How to Identify the Correct Bolt Pattern for a Specific Subaru Model
I want to share how I check my Subaru’s bolt pattern.
First, I park my car on flat ground and grab a measuring tape.
For my five-lug wheel, I measure from the center of one lug hole to the center of the hole across from it.
I’ve found that this gives me the most accurate reading.
If I want to be extra sure, I also check under my trunk mat where there’s a sticker with wheel specs.
When I bought new wheels last month, I double-checked these measurements with my manual.
Getting this wrong can cost a lot of money, so I always measure twice.
Tips for Finding Your Subaru’s Bolt Pattern:
- Look at your car’s build date sticker (usually on the driver’s side door frame)
- Check your owner’s manual in the wheel specifications section
- Take a photo of your current wheel setup before removing anything
- Use a bolt pattern gauge tool for the most accurate measurement
- Write down both millimeter and inch measurements
- Compare your findings with official Subaru charts
- Ask your local tire shop to confirm your measurements
- Keep a record of your bolt pattern for future reference
Safety Note: Getting the wrong bolt pattern can lead to loose wheels and accidents. I always verify my measurements before buying new wheels. When in doubt, I talk to a professional who knows Subarus.
Comparisons between Subaru’s and other brands’ bolt patterns
| Brand | Common Bolt Patterns | Popular Models Using This Pattern | Compatible With Subaru? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota | 5×114.3 mm | Camry, RAV4, Avalon | Yes (newer Subarus) |
| 5×100 mm | Older Celica | Yes (older Subarus) | |
| Honda | 5×114.3 mm | Accord, Civic Si, Pilot | Yes (newer Subarus) |
| 4×100 mm | Older Civic, Fit | No | |
| Ford | 5×114.3 mm | Mustang, Explorer | Yes (newer Subarus) |
| 5×108 mm | Focus, Fiesta | No | |
| Volkswagen | 5×100 mm | Golf, Jetta (older) | Yes (older Subarus) |
| 5×112 mm | Newer Passat, Golf R | No | |
| Mazda | 5×114.3 mm | Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-5 | Yes (newer Subarus) |
| Hyundai | 5×114.3 mm | Sonata, Tucson | Yes (newer Subarus) |
How to Maintain Bolt Patterns on Your Subaru
I check my Subaru’s wheel bolts once a month. When I hear odd noises, I look at the bolts first. Loose bolts can ruin wheel holes.
I use a wire brush to keep the threads clean. During tire rotations, I check for wear signs.
If I see cracks or odd shapes, I visit my mechanic right away. I always use a torque wrench to get the right tightness.
My mechanic told me that the wrong bolt pressure can warp wheels over time.
Using the right tools has kept my wheels in good shape for years.
It’s better to spend time on checks than deal with wheel problems later.
Tools For Safe Bolt Maintenance:
- Torque wrench
- Wire brush
- Socket set
- Small flashlight
- Thread checker
- Clean rags
Conclusion
Now you know why bolt patterns matter on your Subaru. They’re not just holes in your wheels – they keep you safe.
I wrote this guide to share what I learned from my own wheel problems. The right bolt pattern means better rides and fewer shop visits.
Keep this guide handy when you shop for new wheels. Check those bolts monthly. Clean them well. Keep them tight.
These simple steps make a big difference. Your Subaru deserves this basic care.
Stay safe, and enjoy the ride with the right bolt pattern.