Bolt patterns play a key role in how wheels fit on a Subaru. Choosing the right bolt pattern ensures that the wheels align properly with the hub, providing a secure and stable connection.
A proper fit helps maintain handling, safety, and even tire wear.
Each Subaru model comes with a specific bolt pattern. Using the wrong one can lead to issues like vibrations, poor alignment, and even damage to suspension components.
Knowing the correct bolt pattern is essential if you plan to upgrade to aftermarket wheels or replace factory ones.
The right bolt pattern improves driving performance and prevents fitment problems.
Understanding how bolt patterns work will help you make better choices when selecting wheels for your Subaru, ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience.
What Is the Bolt Pattern for A Subaru?
Subaru vehicles come with specific bolt patterns that determine how wheels attach to the hub.
The bolt pattern is measured by the number of lug holes on the wheel and the diameter of the circle they form.
This measurement ensures proper fitment, stability, and safety when installing new wheels.
Most Subaru models use a 5×100 or 5×114.3 bolt pattern. The first number represents the number of lug holes, while the second number is the circle’s diameter in millimeters.
Choosing the right bolt pattern is important because it affects how securely the wheels attach to the vehicle.
Using the wrong pattern can lead to vibration, poor alignment, and stress on suspension parts. Before buying new wheels, always check the exact specifications of your Subaru model.
Variations in Subaru Bolt Patterns by Model and Year
Subaru has used different bolt patterns across various models and generations. Here are some common patterns:
- 5×100: Found on older models like the Subaru Impreza, Legacy, and WRX (pre-2005).
- 5×114.3: Used on newer models like the WRX STI, Outback, and some Forester trims.
- Other Patterns: Some older models, such as the Subaru SVX, used a 5×114.3 pattern before it became standard on newer performance models.
Before buying new wheels, check your vehicle’s bolt pattern, offset, and hub size to ensure a proper fit. Using the wrong pattern can lead to handling issues and safety concerns.
Understanding Subaru Bolt Patterns and Their Compatibility
Bolt patterns affect how wheels fit on a vehicle, influencing handling, stability, and safety.
Choosing the right pattern helps avoid alignment issues, clearance problems, and excessive wear on suspension components.
How Bolt Patterns Impact Fitment, Handling, and Safety?
The correct bolt pattern mounts wheels securely, preventing movement or misalignment. A mismatched bolt pattern can lead to uneven tire wear and poor vehicle stability.
Proper wheel fitment ensures that the tires maintain full contact with the road. This improves handling, traction, and braking.
If the bolt pattern does not match, the wheels may not sit flush against the hub, affecting how the car responds to turns and road conditions.
Safety is another major factor. Wheels that do not fit correctly stress the wheel bearings, suspension, and steering components.
Over time, this can lead to premature wear and even cause the wheel to loosen while driving.
Compatibility with Aftermarket Wheels and Different Rim Sizes
Many Subaru owners upgrade to aftermarket wheels for better performance or style.
However, not all wheels are designed to fit factory bolt patterns. Some aftermarket wheels may require additional modifications to ensure a proper fit.
Hub-centric rings help match the wheel’s center bore to the vehicle’s hub. This prevents vibrations and ensures the wheels are properly aligned.
If the bore size is not correct, the wheel may not sit evenly, causing handling issues.
Adapters or spacers are sometimes needed when switching to a different bolt pattern. While these can help fit non-standard wheels, they can also affect wheel balance and stability.
Choosing wheels with the correct bolt pattern is best to avoid using extra components.
The right offset and backspacing are also important when selecting aftermarket wheels. If the offset is too high, the wheel may sit too close to the suspension, causing rubbing.
If the offset is too low, the wheel may stick out too far, affecting aerodynamics and handling.
List of the Correct Bolt Pattern for Different Subaru Models
Subaru vehicles come with different bolt patterns depending on the model, year, and trim level. These bolt patterns determine how the wheels attach to the hub, affecting stability, handling, and wheel compatibility.
Choosing the right bolt pattern is necessary to ensure a secure fit, prevent vibrations, and avoid suspension stress. Below is a breakdown of the bolt pattern specifications for popular Subaru models:
Subaru WRX and WRX STI
- 2002–2014 WRX: 5×100
- 2015–Present WRX: 5×114.3
- 2004 WRX STI: 5×100
- 2005–Present WRX STI: 5×114.3
- Reason for Change: Subaru upgraded the STI to 5×114.3 to improve cornering stability and allow for larger brake kits.
Subaru Impreza
- 1993–Present (All Trims): 5×100
- Why It Matters: The Impreza has consistently used 5×100, making it easier to find aftermarket wheels without fitment concerns.
Subaru Outback
- 1996–2014: 5×100
- 2015–Present: 5×114.3
- Impact of Change: The newer Outback models use 5×114.3 for better structural integrity and compatibility with wider wheels.
Subaru Forester
- 1997–2013: 5×100
- 2014–Present: 5×114.3
- What Changed? The transition from 5×100 to 5×114.3 provides better handling and reduces wheel stress under load.
Subaru Legacy
- 1989–2014: 5×100
- 2015–Present: 5×114.3
- Why It Changed: The shift to 5×114.3 offers improved durability and better compatibility with modern wheel designs.
Subaru Crosstrek
- 2013–Present: 5×100
- Key Fact: Despite changes in other models, the Crosstrek still uses 5×100, making it easier to find wheels that fit previous Subaru generations.
In recent years, Subaru started transitioning performance-oriented models like the WRX STI and larger vehicles like the Outback and Forester to 5×114.3.
This was done to improve handling, allow for larger brake kits, and enhance structural strength.
To ensure proper fitment, if you’re replacing or upgrading your wheels, always verify the bolt pattern, hub bore, offset, and wheel width.
Even if the lug pattern is correct, other factors can impact compatibility.
How to Identify the Correct Bolt Pattern for a Specific Subaru Model?
Measuring the bolt pattern correctly ensures that wheels fit securely without causing alignment or handling issues. When replacing factory wheels or upgrading to aftermarket options, it’s important to know how to measure the bolt pattern accurately.
Tools Needed to Measure Bolt Patterns
Having the right tools makes measuring bolt patterns easier and more accurate.
A small mistake in measurement can lead to wheel fitment issues, so using the correct equipment is important.
- Measuring Tape or Calipers: Used to measure the diameter of the bolt circle.
- Straight Edge or Ruler: Helps align measurements when checking the distance between lugs.
- Wheel Bolt Pattern Gauge – A specialized tool that instantly measures the bolt pattern, preventing errors.
- Owner’s Manual or Wheel Specification Chart: Provides manufacturer specifications to confirm correct measurements.
Using these tools ensures that the bolt pattern is measured correctly, reducing the risk of fitment issues when installing new wheels.
Step 1: Count the Lug Holes
Look at the wheel and count the number of lug holes. Most Subaru models use a 5-lug pattern, meaning the wheel will have five evenly spaced lug holes.
If your Subaru has a different number of lugs (less common), the same measuring process applies, but you will need to adjust the way you measure the bolt circle.
Step 2: Measure the Bolt Circle Diameter
The bolt circle diameter (BCD) determines the bolt pattern measurement. It is the diameter of the circle formed by the lug holes.
For wheels with an even number of lugs (like Subaru’s 5-lug pattern): Place a measuring tape or caliper from the center of one lug hole directly across to the center of the opposite lug hole.
This measurement in millimeters gives the second number in the bolt pattern. Example: If the distance is 100mm, the bolt pattern is 5x100mm.
For wheels with an odd number of lugs: Start by placing a measuring tape at the center of one lug hole. Extend the tape across the wheel to the outer edge of the lug hole directly opposite.
This method provides the most accurate way to measure the bolt circle.
Step 3: Convert the Measurement to Millimeters
Bolt patterns are commonly listed in millimeters (mm). Subaru models typically use either 5x100mm or 5×114.3mm. If you measured the bolt circle in inches, convert it to millimeters by multiplying by 25.4 (since 1 inch = 25.4mm).
Step 4: Verify the Measurement on A Wheel Specification Chart
Checking your measurement against a Subaru wheel specification chart can confirm accuracy. Many resources list bolt patterns by vehicle make and model, making it easy to verify your findings.
If the measurement matches 100mm, the bolt pattern is 5x100mm. If the measurement is 114.3mm, the bolt pattern is 5×114.3mm.
Step 5: Check the Owner’s Manual or Inspect the Wheel
The Subaru owner’s manual often provides bolt pattern details under the “wheel and tire” specifications section.
Many wheels have their bolt pattern stamped or engraved on the back of the rim. Check the markings to confirm the measurement.
Step 6: Use a Bolt Pattern Gauge for Extra Accuracy
A bolt pattern gauge is the easiest and most accurate tool to measure the pattern if available. These tools are designed to fit into the lug holes and quickly read the bolt pattern size.
Step 7: Double-check for Other Fitment Factors
Even if the bolt pattern is correct, other specifications must match to ensure the wheels fit properly. Offset determines how far the wheel sits inward or outward. The hub bore size must match the hub for a snug fit.
Lug nut types may vary, and some wheels require specific lug nuts for proper seating.
Common Mistakes When Identifying Bolt Patterns
Many people make small but costly mistakes when identifying bolt patterns. Avoiding these errors helps ensure that wheels fit properly and prevent safety issues.
Measuring the Distance Incorrectly
Always measure from the center of one lug to the center or outer edge of the opposite lug, depending on the number of lugs.
A miscalculation can lead to buying incompatible wheels.
Assuming All Subaru Models Use the Same Bolt Pattern
Subaru has changed bolt patterns on some models over the years. While many vehicles used 5×100, newer performance models and larger SUVs have transitioned to 5×114.3.
Always check your specific model year before purchasing wheels.
Ignoring Offset and Hub Size
Even if the bolt pattern matches, incorrect offset or hub size can lead to improper fitment.
Checking these specifications ensures the wheel sits correctly without rubbing against suspension components.
Overlooking Wheel Adapters
Some people try to fit wheels with different bolt patterns using adapters. While this may work, adapters can affect handling, safety, and alignment if not installed properly.
By carefully following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently identify the correct bolt pattern for any Subaru model.
Comparisons Between Subaru and Other Brands’ Bolt Patterns
Bolt patterns determine how wheels attach to a vehicle’s hub, affecting stability, handling, and overall performance.
Subaru vehicles primarily use 5×100 and 5×114.3 bolt patterns, but not all wheels from other brands will fit without modifications.
Even if a bolt pattern matches, other factors like offset, hub bore size, and lug nut specifications play a role in proper fitment.
Toyota
Many Toyota models share 5×100 or 5×114.3 bolt patterns with Subaru. This makes some Toyota wheels physically interchangeable.
However, Toyota wheels often have different hub bore sizes and offsets, which may require hub-centric rings or spacers for proper fitment.
Honda
Most Honda vehicles use 5×114.3, the same as many newer Subaru models. However, Honda’s wheels typically have lower offsets, which could push the wheels outward on a Subaru.
Honda also uses M12x1.5 lug nuts, while Subaru uses M12x1.25, meaning the lug nuts must be changed when switching wheels between the two brands.
Nissan
Many Nissan models also use 5×114.3 but tend to have higher offsets than Subaru wheels. This can create clearance issues with brake calipers and suspension components.
Nissan wheels also have larger center bores, requiring hub rings to ensure a snug fit on a Subaru hub.
Mazda
Performance and sedan models from Mazda often use 5×114.3, making them potentially compatible with certain Subaru models.
However, Mazda’s offset and hub bore sizes differ, meaning spacers or hub-centric rings may be needed for a proper fit.
Even if a wheel bolts onto a Subaru, factors like offset, hub bore, and lug nut type must be checked to avoid vibrations, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
Differences in Lug Sizes, Offsets, and Fitment Challenges
Lug sizes differ between brands. Subaru uses M12x1.25 lug nuts, while Toyota, Honda, and Nissan often use M12x1.5.
If switching wheels between these brands, the correct lug nuts must be used to ensure a secure fit.
Using the wrong lug nuts can cause wheel loosening, improper seating, or stripped threads.
Offsets also impact fitment. Subaru wheels typically have higher offsets (+48mm to +55mm), while other brands like Nissan and Honda may have lower offsets (+35mm to +45mm).
A lower offset pushes wheels outward, which can cause fender rubbing. A higher offset moves the wheel closer to the suspension, which may lead to clearance issues with brakes or control arms.
Hub bore sizes can also create fitment problems. Subaru wheels have smaller hub bores than some other brands.
If the hub bore is too large, hub-centric rings are needed to prevent vibrations. The wheel won’t fit on the hub if the bore is too small.
Swapping wheels between brands often requires spacers, hub rings, or lug nut swaps to maintain proper fitment and avoid safety risks.
Always verify the hub bore, offset, and bolt pattern before installing wheels from another brand to ensure safe and stable driving.
How to Maintain Bolt Patterns on Your Subaru?
Maintaining the integrity of your Subaru’s bolt patterns is vital for safe, stable, and long-lasting wheel performance.
Bolt patterns affect how securely your wheels are attached, influencing overall handling, tire wear, and safety.
Following proper maintenance techniques can prevent alignment issues, uneven wear, and long-term damage to your vehicle’s suspension and wheel components.
Use a Torque Wrench
Always tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.
Over-tightening can cause thread damage and warp brake rotors, while under-tightening may result in loose wheels and potential safety hazards.
Tighten Lug Nuts in A Star Pattern
Using a star-pattern sequence ensures even pressure distribution, helping the wheel sit flush against the hub. This method reduces the risk of vibrations, wheel wobbling, and uneven stress on wheel studs.
Inspect Hub and Wheel Surfaces Before Installation
Before mounting wheels, check the hub and wheel mating surfaces for rust, dirt, or debris.
Cleaning these areas allows the wheel to properly seat against the hub, preventing gaps that could lead to instability or wheel movement.
Double-Check the Wheel Fit
Make sure the wheel’s bolt pattern matches your Subaru’s specifications exactly. A secure fit depends on using the correct pattern, ensuring proper alignment, and reducing strain on the vehicle’s suspension.
Re-Check Lug Nut Torque After Initial Installation
After mounting new wheels or reinstalling existing ones, drive for 50–100 miles, then re-torque the lug nuts. This ensures they remain securely fastened as the wheels settle into place.
Always Use the Correct Lug Nuts
Subaru’s wheels require specific lug nut sizes, thread pitches, and seating styles. Using the wrong type of lug nut can cause improper seating, increase stress on wheel studs, and lead to safety issues.
Confirm that any aftermarket or replacement wheels are compatible with the correct lug nuts.
Regularly Check Alignment
Poorly mounted wheels can throw off your alignment, leading to uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, and compromised handling.
Have your alignment checked every 6–12 months, especially after switching wheels or tires. Proper alignment helps maintain a smooth ride and consistent performance.
Best Practices for Wheel Maintenance to Avoid Long-Term Damage
Regular wheel care prevents costly repairs and keeps your vehicle safe on the road. Let’s see some practical steps to maintain your wheels properly:
Rotate Tires on Schedule
Rotating your tires every 5,000–7,500 miles prevents uneven wear, keeps tread depth even, and extends the life of both tires and wheels.
Consistent rotation also helps maintain balanced handling and braking performance.
Avoid Hitting Potholes or Curbs
Impacting curbs, potholes, or other obstacles can bend your wheels, damage suspension components, and compromise the integrity of the bolt pattern.
Drive cautiously and inspect wheels after any significant impact.
Check Wheels for Visible Damage
Regularly inspect your wheels for signs of cracks, dents, or warping. Even small cracks can lead to larger structural issues, potentially causing vibrations or wheel failure.
Address any damage immediately to prevent safety risks.
Keep Wheels and Hubs Clean
Brake dust, road salt, and grime can accumulate on wheels and hubs, leading to corrosion and weakened metal surfaces.
Washing your wheels regularly and cleaning the hub area helps maintain a secure fit and prolongs the life of your components.
Store Seasonal Wheels Properly
If you use different wheels for winter and summer, store the off-season set in a cool, dry place. Use proper racks or stack them flat with protective layers to prevent warping or rusting.
Proper storage ensures they’ll be ready for use next season without additional maintenance.
Conclusion
Bolt patterns are crucial in ensuring your Subaru’s wheels fit securely and perform as intended.
Using the correct bolt pattern helps maintain stability, improves handling, and reduces the risk of wheel damage.
It’s not just about the numbers—the entire setup works together to keep your vehicle safe and reliable.
When upgrading to aftermarket wheels or simply replacing old ones, always confirm that the bolt pattern, offset, and hub bore match your Subaru’s specifications.
This simple step prevents costly mistakes and ensures your wheels stay secure and aligned.
Understanding bolt patterns and proper maintenance ensures smooth driving and peace of mind, keeping your Subaru running at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Common Bolt Pattern for A Subaru?
Most Subaru vehicles use either a 5×100 or a 5×114.3 bolt pattern. The exact pattern depends on the model and year.
How Can I Tell if A Wheel Will Fit My Subaru’s Bolt Pattern?
You need to match the wheel’s bolt pattern to your Subaru’s specifications. Check your owner’s manual or measure the bolt circle diameter yourself.
To ensure a proper fit, it’s also important to consider other factors, such as offset and hub bore size.
Can I Use a Wheel with A Different Bolt Pattern on My Subaru?
In most cases, wheels with different bolt patterns won’t fit without modifications. Using adapters or spacers might allow fitment, but it’s not always recommended.
It’s best to stick to the correct bolt pattern to maintain safety and proper handling.
Why Do Subaru Bolt Patterns Vary by Model and Year?
Subaru has updated bolt patterns on certain models to improve performance, accommodate larger brakes, and provide more stability.
Newer performance models, for example, shifted from 5×100 to 5×114.3 to handle greater stresses and enhance handling characteristics.
What Happens if I Use the Wrong Bolt Pattern on My Subaru?
Using the wrong bolt pattern can cause the wheels to be improperly mounted, leading to vibrations, poor handling, or even damage to the wheel studs and suspension.
Always verify the correct bolt pattern before installing new wheels.