Bolt Pattern Calculator

Calculate wheel bolt pattern (PCD) from measurements, determine how to measure a specific pattern, and verify wheel-to-vehicle compatibility. Essential for safe wheel fitment.

Count the number of lug bolts or studs

Even bolts: center-to-center across. Odd bolts: center to far edge

The PCD value from wheel specs

Your vehicle's bolt circle diameter

The wheel's bolt circle diameter

Number of bolts on vehicle

Number of holes in wheel

Bolt Pattern Format: Number of Bolts × PCD (mm)\n\nEven Bolts (4, 6, 8):\nPCD = Center-to-center distance across\n\nOdd Bolts (5, 7):\nPCD = Measurement / (1 + cos(180°/n))\nwhere measurement = center to far edge\nn = number of bolts\n\nAngle Between Bolts = 360° / n
Example 1 (5-bolt measurement):\nMeasured: 142.5mm (center to edge)\nBolts: 5\n\nAngle: 180° / 5 = 36°\ncos(36°) = 0.809\nPCD = 142.5 / (1 + 0.809)\nPCD = 142.5 / 1.809 = 78.8mm\n\nActually measuring 5×114.3?\nCorrect measurement: 206.9mm\n\nExample 2 (4-bolt):\nMeasured: 100mm across\nPCD = 100mm (direct)\nPattern: 4 × 100

What is bolt pattern and how is it measured?

Bolt pattern (or bolt circle/PCD) defines wheel mounting hole arrangement. Written as "number of bolts × diameter". Example: 5×114.3 means 5 bolts on 114.3mm diameter circle. For even-bolt patterns (4, 6, 8), measure center-to-center across. For odd patterns (5, 7), measure from one bolt center to the furthest edge of the circle.

Can I use wheels with a different bolt pattern?

No, you must match bolt pattern exactly. 5×114.3 ≠ 5×115 (only 0.7mm difference but will not fit safely). Some dual-drilled wheels fit multiple patterns (like 5×100/114.3). Never use adapters unless hub-centric and properly rated - they add stress to wheel studs and can cause wheel separation.

What bolt patterns are most common?

4×100: Small FWD cars (Honda Civic, VW Golf). 5×114.3: Common (Honda Accord, Nissan, Mazda). 5×120: BMW, some GM. 5×112: Audi, VW, Mercedes. 6×139.7: Toyota/Nissan trucks. 5×4.5" (5×114.3mm): Older Ford/Chrysler. Always verify exact PCD - close is not good enough.

How do I measure bolt pattern at home?

Even bolts (4, 6, 8): Measure from center of one bolt to center of opposite bolt. Odd bolts (5, 7): Measure from center of one bolt to the back edge (furthest point) of the non-adjacent bolt hole. Use digital calipers for accuracy. Common mistake: measuring stud diameter instead of bolt circle diameter.

What is PCD and is it the same as bolt pattern?

PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter) is the diameter of the circle on which the bolt holes are positioned. Bolt pattern includes both the number of bolts AND the PCD. So "5×114.3" means 5 bolts with 114.3mm PCD. PCD must match exactly for safe fitment - even 1-2mm difference prevents proper seating.

Why do some wheels have two bolt patterns?

Dual-drilled or multi-fit wheels have two sets of bolt holes to fit multiple vehicles. Example: 5×100/114.3 fits both patterns. Common on aftermarket wheels to increase compatibility. Check that ALL holes in one pattern align - partial alignment is unsafe. Still need correct hub bore and offset.

What happens if bolt pattern is slightly off?

Even 1mm mismatch prevents proper seating. Wheels will wobble, lug nuts won't tighten evenly, wheel studs will bend/break, catastrophic wheel failure possible. Never force wheels that don't fit easily. If 4 of 5 lugs align, the pattern is WRONG - all must align perfectly without force.