Additional Wheel / Bolt Pattern Measurement Information

Key Identifying Wheel Dimensions: Wheel Bolt or Lug Pattern (or bolt circle, lug circle, lug pattern, etc.) is the measured diameter of an imaginary circle formed by the centers of the wheel lugs or bolt holes. Bolt patterns can be 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 10 lug holes. A bolt circle of 5 x 4.5 would indicate a 5 lug bolt pattern on a circle with a diameter of 4.5 inches.

Wheel Dimensions

There are four important measurements that are used to categorize and identify a wheel for fitment purposes.

1. Rim Diameter The actual diameter of the wheel at the point where the tire bead seats (NOT the outer lip of the rim).
2. Rim Width Measure from the inside of the outer lip at the bead seating point to the inner lip.
3. Back Spacing From the inside of the wheel at the point where it contacts the hub, brake drum or axle flange to the inside edge (lip) of the wheel.
4. Bolt Pattern The measured diameter of an imaginary circle formed by the centers of the wheel lugs or bolt holes.

How To Measure Wheel Bolt Pattern

If there is an EVEN number of lugs: Measure center-to-center on lugs directly across from each other.

If there is an ODD number of lugs: Measure from the CENTER of one lug to the OUTER EDGE of the hole diagonally across from it.

Lug Nut Types

Bolt Pattern Torque Sequence / Specifications:

Stud Size	Typical Torque Range in Ft/Lbs	Minimum Thread Engagement (turns)
12 x 1.5 mm	70 - 80	6.5
12 x 1.25 mm	70 - 80	8
14 x 1.5 mm	85 - 90	7.5
14 x 1.25 mm	85 - 90	9
7/16 in.	70 - 80	8
1/2 in.	75 - 85	8
9/16 in.	135 - 145	8

Alloy wheels should always be installed using a torque wrench ensuring proper mount. Check your vehicle owner manual for specifications. Learn More: How To Properly Torque Lug Nuts / Lug Bolts

Hub Center Bore

Hub Center Bore: Relates to the center hole in the wheel that centers the wheel on the hub of the car. Since most wheels are mass produced, they have a large center bore to accommodate several different vehicles. If this is the case, it is recommended that you use a hub ring. Hub rings are hard plastic or metal ring that fits between the wheel and the vehicle. This centers the wheel perfectly on the hub ensuring that there is no run out when the wheel is installed on to the vehicle. Without hub rings it is possible to get vibrations even if the wheel / tire assembly is perfectly balanced.

Wheel Offset

Wheel offset is the distance from the mounting surface of the wheel to the true center line of the rim. A positive offset means the mounting surface of the wheel is positioned in front of the true center line of the rim / tire assembly. This in effect brings the tire in to the fender well more. Conversely, a negative offset means the mounting surface of the wheel is behind the true center line of the rim / tire assembly. This will cause the tire to stick out away from the vehicle.

H = High - Positive Offset, typically FWD (Front Wheel Drive) +45, 40, 35 offsets

M = Medium - Neutral Offset, typically RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) +20 offset

L = Low - Zero to Negative Offset, Offset typically RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) 0 offset

Common Bolt Pattern Conversions

This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge. No warranties or guarantees are expressed or implied as to the accuracy of the information provided on this site. Use of this site constitutes your agreement to these terms.