The bolt pattern of a wheel tells us the number of lugs (or bolt holes) and the diameter of the circle that the lugs sit on.

For example, a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern lets us know we need a wheel with 5 lugs that are spaced out evenly on a circle that has a 4-1/2" diameter.

To determine the bolt pattern on a wheel, use the number of lugs and measure the bolt circle as shown below.


For Wheels with an EVEN Number of Lugs:


  • Measure CENTER-to-CENTER on lugs directly across from each other as shown.



For Wheels with an ODD Number of Lugs:


  • Measure from the CENTER of one hole to the
    BACK of the second hole as shown.


IMPORTANT NOTE:  With an odd number of lugs, there is not a lug directly opposite any hole, so finding the circle diameter can be challenging.


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Related Tech Topics:  Measuring Wheel Width & Rear Spacing  |  Lug Nut Torque Specs