Understanding Wheel Bolt Patterns
When shopping for aftermarket wheels, the bolt pattern (also known as the lug pattern or PCD - Pitch Circle Diameter) is the most critical fitment specification. It ensures the wheel can be physically mounted to your vehicle's hub. A bolt pattern is defined by two numbers: the number of studs (lugs) and the diameter of the imaginary circle formed by the center of those studs.
Common Bolt Pattern Conversions
Many vehicles use metric measurements (millimeters), while others use standard (inches). Knowing the conversion is helpful when searching for wheels, as manufacturers may list them differently.
- 5x114.3 mm is the same as 5x4.5 inches (Common on Ford, Toyota, Honda, Nissan)
- 5x120 mm is approximately 5x4.75 inches (Common on BMW, Chevy Camaro/Corvette)
- 5x127 mm is the same as 5x5 inches (Common on Jeep Wrangler JK/JL, Chevy Trucks)
- 6x139.7 mm is the same as 6x5.5 inches (Common on Chevy Silverado, Toyota Tacoma/4Runner)
How to Measure Your Bolt Pattern
For 4, 6, and 8-lug wheels, you measure from the center of one stud to the center of the stud directly opposite. For 5-lug wheels, it is slightly more difficult: measure from the center of one stud to the outer edge of the stud furthest away.
What is Wheel Offset?
Wheel Offset is the distance from the hub mounting surface to the centerline of the wheel. It is usually measured in millimeters and can be positive, negative, or zero.
- Positive Offset: The mounting surface is closer to the face (outside) of the wheel. Common on modern front-wheel-drive cars.
- Zero Offset: The mounting surface is exactly in the center of the wheel.
- Negative Offset: The mounting surface is closer to the back (brake side) of the wheel. This creates a "deep dish" look, common on lifted trucks and older muscle cars.
Center Bore & Hub Centric Rings
The Center Bore is the machined hole in the center of the wheel that fits over the vehicle's hub. If the wheel's center bore is larger than the vehicle's hub, you may need hub centric rings to prevent vibration. If the wheel's bore is too small, it will not fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 5x114.3 and 5x4.5 the same?
Yes, they are identical. 114.3 millimeters converts exactly to 4.5 inches.
How do I measure a 5 lug pattern?
Measure from the center of one stud to the outer edge of the stud furthest away (skip one stud).