Are you stuck trying to find the right wheels for your 2014 Subaru Impreza?
You’re not alone.
When I bought my Impreza last year, I spent hours researching bolt patterns before making any purchases.
Bolt patterns matter because they determine which wheels will fit your car. The wrong pattern means wasted money and time.
I’ll share what I learned about the 2014 Impreza’s bolt pattern specs in this article. You’ll find:
- The exact measurements you need
- Compatible wheel options
- Tips for finding affordable wheels that fit perfectly
I’ve tested multiple wheel setups on my own Impreza and checked with local mechanics to confirm my findings.
I’ll solve your wheel-fitting troubles with clear, practical advice that works in the real world.
What is the Bolt Pattern for a 2014 Subaru Impreza?
The 2014 Subaru Impreza uses a 5×100 bolt pattern.
This means it has five lug nuts arranged in a circle with a diameter of 100mm.
This pattern is common among Japanese cars, making my search for new wheels easier.
Let me break this down for you:
- The “5” refers to the number of bolt holes
- The “100” is the diameter in millimeters
- This measurement goes from the center of one bolt-hole to the center of the opposite bolt-hole
You might be wondering about wheel sizes.
Good news!
Several common wheel sizes work well with this bolt pattern.
Wait – did you know that Subaru has used this same pattern for many years?
That’s helpful if you’re buying used wheels.
Wheel Sizes That Fit Your Impreza
From my testing, these wheel sizes fit perfectly with the 5×100 bolt pattern:
- 15×6.5 inches
- 16×6.5 inches
- 17×7 inches
- 18×7.5 inches
The stock wheels on most 2014 Imprezas are 16 or 17 inches. I found the 17-inch wheels give the best balance of looks and comfort.
Keep in mind that the right tire size matters, too. But that’s a topic for another day!
Understanding Compatibility Of 2014 Subaru Impreza Bolt Patterns
I was confused when I first looked at wheel options for my Impreza. Numbers like “5×100” didn’t mean much to me. Now I know better.
The bolt pattern is key to finding wheels that fit your car.
How Bolt Patterns Affect Your Car?
The right bolt pattern matters for several reasons:
- Safety: Wheels with the wrong pattern might seem to fit but could come loose while driving.
- Performance: Properly fitted wheels help maintain your car’s handling characteristics.
- Options: Knowing your bolt pattern opens up more wheel choices, including from other compatible Subaru models.
I learned that some wheels from the BRZ won’t fit my Impreza because the BRZ uses a 5×114.3 pattern.
This small difference makes them completely incompatible.
Adapters can be used to fit wheels with different bolt patterns, but I don’t recommend this for daily driving.
In my experience, sticking with the native 5×100 pattern gives the best results.
What surprised me most? How much wheel weight affects gas mileage?
Lighter wheels that fit your bolt pattern can actually save you money over time.
How to Identify the Correct Bolt Pattern for a Specific 2014 Subaru Impreza Model?
While all 2014 Imprezas share the same bolt pattern, I still think it’s good to check yours to be sure. I once bought wheels based only on what someone told me, which was a mistake.
Here’s my step-by-step guide to confirm your Impreza’s bolt pattern:
Tools Required
- Tape measure or ruler (metric is best)
- Paper and pencil
- Jack and Jack stand (for safety)
- Gloves (optional but recommended)
- Flashlight (helpful for better visibility)
- Wheel chocks (to prevent rolling)
- Clean rag (to wipe dirt from lug holes)
Measuring Your Bolt Pattern
Step 1: Park your car on a flat, solid surface and apply the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that will remain on the ground.
Step 2: Loosen the lug nuts on one wheel before jacking up the car. Don’t remove them completely yet.
Step 3: Jack up the car and secure it with jack stands. Remember, never work under a car supported only by a jack!
Step 4: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Step 5: Now for the actual measurement. For a 5-lug wheel like on the Impreza:
- Measure from the center of one lug hole to the center of the lug hole directly across
- If there’s no direct opposite (which happens with 5-lug patterns), measure to the farthest lug hole
The easiest way? I place a piece of paper over the hub, mark all hole centers, and then measure between the marks.
Did you know many auto parts stores can check your bolt pattern for free?
I used this service when I was in a hurry, and it saved me time.
Checking Manufacturer Specs
Not comfortable with measuring? No problem!
You can:
- Check your owner’s manual – it lists the bolt pattern in the specifications section
- Look at the inside of your driver’s door – many cars have a sticker with wheel specs
- Search your exact model on the Subaru website
I also like to use online tools. Websites like Wheel-Size.com let you enter your car details and display all specs, including the bolt pattern.
These tools saved me hours of research.
The most reliable method is to call your local Subaru dealer with your VIN number. They can tell you exactly what bolt pattern your specific car has.
List of the Correct Bolt Pattern for a Different 2014 Subaru Impreza Model
When I first started looking at Subaru wheels, I thought all Impreza models would have the same bolt pattern.
I was mostly right, but there are some important differences you should know about.
Most 2014 Imprezas use the same bolt pattern, but there are exceptions with the performance models.
Let me show you what I found:
Bolt Pattern Table by Model
| Model | Trim/Version | Bolt Pattern | Center Bore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impreza | Base Sedan | 5x100mm | 56.1mm |
| Impreza | Base Hatchback | 5x100mm | 56.1mm |
| Impreza | Sport Premium | 5x100mm | 56.1mm |
| Impreza | Sport Limited | 5x100mm | 56.1mm |
| Impreza | WRX | 5x100mm | 56.1mm |
| Impreza | WRX STI | 5×114.3mm | 56.1mm |
Did you notice that?
The STI is different from all other models!
I learned this the hard way when I tried to put regular Impreza wheels on my friend’s STI. They wouldn’t fit because of this pattern difference.
Why does the STI use a different pattern?
According to my research, the 5×114.3mm pattern allows for stronger aftermarket wheel options, which is important for high-performance driving.
The center bore stays the same across all models though. This means you can use hub-centric rings if needed when fitting wheels.
Have you checked which exact model you have?
The easy way to tell is to look at your vehicle registration or the badge on the back of your car.
Comparisons Between the 2014 Subaru Impreza’s and Other Brands’ Bolt Patterns
Subaru Family Comparison
| Subaru Model | Year Range | Bolt Pattern | Compatible with 2014 Impreza? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester | 2009-2013 | 5x100mm | Yes |
| Legacy | 2005-2014 | 5x100mm | Yes |
| Outback | 2005-2014 | 5x100mm | Yes |
| BRZ | 2013-2014 | 5x100mm | Yes |
| Crosstrek | 2013-2014 | 5x100mm | Yes |
| WRX STI | 2005-2014 | 5×114.3mm | No |
Comparison with Other Brands
| Brand/Model | Year Range | Bolt Pattern | Compatible with 2014 Impreza? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic | 2012-2014 | 5×114.3mm | No |
| Toyota Corolla | 2009-2014 | 5x100mm | Yes |
| Mazda 3 | 2010-2014 | 5×114.3mm | No |
| Volkswagen Golf | 2010-2014 | 5x112mm | No |
| Mitsubishi Lancer | 2008-2014 | 5×114.3mm | No |
| Hyundai Elantra | 2011-2014 | 5×114.3mm | No |
Wait – did you notice that? The Toyota Corolla shares the same bolt pattern as the Impreza!
This was a happy find for me.
When my local tire shop had a sale on Corolla wheels, I grabbed a set for my Impreza and saved over $200.
Remember: Even with matching bolt patterns, you must check the offset and center bore before buying wheels from another car model.
How to Maintain Bolt Patterns on Your 2014 Subaru Impreza?
The bolt pattern itself doesn’t need maintenance, but the parts around it sure do! I learned this after hearing an odd rattle from my wheels last winter.
1. Proper Wheel Installation
When I install wheels on my Impreza, I always follow a specific process.
First, I hand-tighten all lug nuts.
Then, I use a torque wrench set to 89 foot-pounds—the factory-recommended setting for the 2014 Impreza.
Always tighten lug nuts in a star pattern.
This ensures even pressure across the wheel. I once made the mistake of tightening in a circle, and my wheel developed a slight wobble.
You should re-check the torque after driving about 50 miles with newly installed wheels.
The metal expands and contracts with heat, which can loosen the lug nuts slightly.
2. Use the Correct Torque Settings
Did you know over-tightening can be just as bad as under-tightening?
I once stripped a stud by using too much force.
The correct torque for a 2014 Impreza is 89 foot pounds (or 120 Newton meters). This is not the same for all cars, so check your specific model.
I invested in a good torque wrench, and it’s been worth every penny. Those lug nut tighteners at tire shops often apply too much torque.
3. Preventing Rust and Wear
Salt and water can damage wheel hubs and studs. Since I live in an area with harsh winters, I clean the wheel hubs every spring.
Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound on the hub face (not the studs) when changing wheels.
This prevents the wheels from “welding” themselves to the hub due to corrosion.
For the studs and lug nuts, I use a wire brush to remove any rust before it gets bad. Then, I apply a small amount of white lithium grease to the threads.
4. Regular Inspection
Every oil change, I check my wheel studs for damage or unusual wear.
Look for cracks, rust, or thread damage.
If a stud is damaged, replace it immediately. Driving with damaged studs can cause wheel loss.
I once ignored a slightly bent stud. Three weeks later, I had a wheel come loose on the highway.
Not fun at all!
5. Dealing with Cross-Threading
Cross-threading happens when a lug nut goes on at the wrong angle. If you feel resistance when first threading a lug nut, stop and start over.
Never force a lug nut that doesn’t thread smoothly. If you cross-thread and damage a stud, it needs replacement.
The repair cost for a damaged stud is much higher than taking your time during installation.
I learned this lesson the expensive way.
Conclusion
Finding the right wheels for your 2014 Subaru Impreza doesn’t need to be complicated.
Remember that most Impreza models use a 5x100mm bolt pattern, with only the STI model using 5×114.3mm.
I’ve used wheels from other cars, like the Toyota Corolla on my Impreza, with great results. This saved me money while giving me more style options.
When installing wheels, always:
- Use the correct 89-foot-pound torque setting
- Tighten in a star pattern
- Apply anti-seize compound to prevent rust
What matters most is finding wheels that fit properly and safely.
With the information in this guide, you’re now ready to make a smart wheel purchase for your Impreza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Wheel Spacers to Fit Wheels With a Different Bolt Pattern on My 2014 Impreza?
No, spacers don’t change the bolt pattern.
Instead, you need bolt pattern adapters, which can affect handling and aren’t ideal for daily driving.
Will 2022 Subaru Impreza Wheels Fit My 2014 Model?
Yes, newer Impreza models (except STI versions) still use the 5x100mm pattern.
The offset might differ slightly, but they’re generally compatible.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Damaged Wheel Stud on a 2014 Impreza?
Typically, the cost is $15-30 per stud plus labor.
Many shops charge 1-2 hours of labor ($80-200), but you can DIY with basic tools.