Joseph Weaver If you’re a Subaru Impreza owner looking to upgrade your vehicle’s aesthetics and performance, one of the most crucial factors to consider is wheel fitment. Getting the right set of wheels for your car can make a world of difference in terms of how it handles, looks, and feels. But how do you know which wheels are the right fit for your Impreza? The answer lies in understanding bolt patterns.
What is a Bolt Pattern?
A bolt pattern refers to the number of bolt holes and their spacing on a vehicle’s hub. Essentially, it tells you how many studs your wheels will have and how far apart they’ll be from each other. For example, a bolt pattern of 5×114.3 means that the wheel has five bolts and a diameter of 114.3 millimeters. Bolt patterns can come in different sizes and configurations, depending on the make and model of a car.
Why is Bolt Pattern Important?
Bolt pattern is crucial for wheel fitment because it ensures that the wheels are properly secured to the vehicle’s hub. Using the wrong bolt pattern can lead to vibration, poor handling, and even accidents. Additionally, incorrect bolt patterns can damage wheel studs, which can be costly to repair.
How to Measure Bolt Patterns
Before you start shopping for new wheels, you’ll need to measure your Impreza’s bolt pattern. Here’s how to do it:
- Clean the hub and rotor thoroughly.
- Measure the distance between the center of any hole to the center of the hole directly across from it. Make sure you’re measuring from the center, not the edges of the holes.
- Note the number of bolts on the hub. Most Imprezas have 5 bolts.
- Write down the measurement and number of bolts. This will give you the bolt pattern.
What is the Bolt Pattern on a Subaru Impreza?
The bolt pattern on most Subaru Impreza models is 5x100mm. This means that it has five bolts with a diameter of 100 millimeters. However, it’s essential to note that some Impreza models, such as the WRX and STI, have a different bolt pattern. The WRX and STI have a bolt pattern of 5×114.3mm.
What Other Cars Share the Same Bolt Pattern as the Subaru Impreza?
Several other vehicles share the same bolt pattern as the Subaru Impreza, making it easier to find compatible wheels. Some of these cars include:
- Subaru Legacy
- Subaru Forester
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Matrix
- Toyota Celica
- Scion TC
- Volkswagen Golf
How to Choose the Correct Wheels Based on Bolt Pattern
When choosing new wheels for your Subaru Impreza, the bolt pattern is just one of several factors to consider. You’ll also need to think about wheel size, offset, and backspacing. Here are the steps to follow:
- Determine your Impreza’s bolt pattern.
- Decide on the wheel size that you want. Larger sizes can improve handling and aesthetics, but they can also have drawbacks such as increased cost and reduced fuel efficiency.
- Determine the offset you need. This refers to the distance between the hub mounting surface and the centerline of the wheel. A higher offset means that the wheel is pushed closer to the fender, while a lower offset means that it’s closer to the suspension.
- Factor in backspacing, which refers to the distance between the mounting surface and the lip of the wheel. A higher backspacing means that the wheel is tucked into the fender more, while a lower backspacing means that it sits farther out.
Tips for Maintaining Wheel Fitment
Once you’ve found the perfect set of wheels for your Subaru Impreza, it’s important to maintain proper fitment. Here are some tips to follow:
- Tighten wheel lugs to the manufacturer’s specifications. Over-tightening can lead to thread damage, while under-tightening can lead to loose wheels.
- Check for damage to the wheels or tires regularly. Bent rims and punctured tires can cause vibration and steering issues.
- Keep the wheels clean and free of corrosion. Brake dust and salt can cause discoloration and damage to the wheels over time.
- Avoid hitting curbs or potholes. Impact damage can warp the wheels or bend the suspension, leading to poor fitment.
Final Thoughts
Bolt patterns are essential to understand when it comes to upgrading your Subaru Impreza’s wheels. With this guide, you can confidently measure your Impreza’s bolt pattern, choose the right wheels, and maintain proper fitment over time. Remember to think about all of the factors that contribute to wheel fitment, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safety. Happy customizing!
FAQ
Q: What happens if I use the wrong bolt pattern on my Impreza?
A: Using the wrong bolt pattern can lead to vibration, poor handling, and even accidents. Additionally, incorrect bolt patterns can damage wheel studs, which can be costly to repair.
Q: What are some other cars that share the same bolt pattern as the Subaru Impreza?
A: Some other cars that share the same bolt pattern as the Subaru Impreza include the Legacy, Forester, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, Toyota Celica, Scion TC, and Volkswagen Golf.
Q: Is bolt pattern the only thing I need to consider when purchasing new wheels for my Impreza?
A: No, you’ll also need to think about wheel size, offset, and backspacing. These factors can also affect wheel fitment and performance.
