A bolt pattern (or lug pattern) describes how a wheel mounts to the hub: the number of lug holes and the diameter of the circle they sit on, written as something like 5×114.3 — five lugs arranged on a 114.3 mm circle. A wheel will only bolt up if its pattern matches the vehicle’s hub exactly, so it’s the first thing to confirm before buying wheels.
How to measure it
Counting the lugs is easy; the bolt-circle diameter takes a little care, and the method depends on whether the lug count is even or odd:
- Even counts (4, 6, 8 lugs): measure straight across from the center of one lug to the center of the lug directly opposite.
- Odd or 5-lug patterns: there’s no directly opposite lug, so measure from the center of one lug to the outer edge of the lug two positions away — or use an inexpensive bolt-pattern gauge for an exact reading.
Both the lug count and the circle diameter must match. A 5×114.3 wheel will not fit a 5×120 hub even though both have five lugs, because the circle sizes differ by a few millimeters.
Frequently asked questions
What does 5×114.3 mean? Five lugs on a 114.3 mm bolt circle.
How do I measure a 5-lug pattern? Center of one lug to the far edge of the lug two over, or use a gauge.
Can I fit a close bolt pattern? No — it must match exactly; adapters exist but must be properly rated.