Free Shipping CA$99+
Wheels

Dual Bolt Pattern Wheels: Double the Fitment Options

AutrexJanuary 3, 20247 min read
Share:
Dual Bolt Pattern Wheels: Double the Fitment Options

Bolt pattern measurement diagram for wheel fitment

When it comes to customizing your vehicle's wheels, flexibility is key. Dual bolt pattern wheels — also called dual-drilled, multi-pattern, or double-bolt-pattern wheels — give you that flexibility by fitting two different bolt patterns on a single wheel. This opens up more vehicle compatibility, easier resale, and more options when you're shopping for the perfect look.

What Are Dual Bolt Pattern Wheels?

Dual bolt pattern wheels have two sets of bolt holes drilled into the wheel's mounting surface, each set corresponding to a different bolt pattern. This means a single wheel can mount on vehicles with either of the two compatible patterns.

For example, a wheel with a 5x100/5x114.3 dual bolt pattern has:

  • One set of 5 holes on a 100mm diameter circle
  • Another set of 5 holes on a 114.3mm diameter circle

When you look at the wheel, you'll see 10 bolt holes instead of the usual 5 — arranged in a closely spaced pattern around the center.

â„šī¸

Not sure what bolt pattern your vehicle uses? Check our bolt pattern fitment guide or measure it yourself.

Here are the most common dual bolt pattern combinations and the vehicles they serve:

5x100 / 5x114.3

The most popular dual pattern — covers a huge range of vehicles:

  • 5x100: Subaru WRX/Impreza, Toyota Corolla/Prius/86, VW Golf Mk4
  • 5x114.3: Honda Civic/Accord, Toyota Camry/RAV4, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia

5x108 / 5x114.3

Bridges the gap between European and Asian vehicles:

  • 5x108: Volvo, Ford Focus/Fusion, Jaguar
  • 5x114.3: Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia

5x112 / 5x120

Covers the major German brands:

  • 5x112: Audi, Volkswagen (Golf Mk5+), Mercedes-Benz
  • 5x120: BMW, older Honda Odyssey, Land Rover

6x135 / 6x139.7

The truck dual pattern — covers the two major truck bolt patterns:

  • 6x135: Ford F-150, Lincoln, Expedition
  • 6x139.7: Toyota Tacoma/4Runner, Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan

5x114.3 / 5x120

Covers Japanese and some European vehicles:

  • 5x114.3: Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai
  • 5x120: BMW, Tesla Model 3, Acura (some)

Benefits of Dual Bolt Pattern Wheels

1. Fitment Versatility

The primary advantage. One set of wheels can fit a much wider range of vehicles. If you're building a project car, own multiple vehicles, or plan to sell the wheels later, this versatility is invaluable.

2. Easy Vehicle Swaps

Own a Subaru WRX (5x100) and a Honda Accord (5x114.3)? With 5x100/5x114.3 dual bolt pattern wheels, you can share one set between both vehicles — or easily move them when you sell one car and buy another.

3. Better Resale Value

Dual bolt pattern wheels appeal to buyers of both bolt patterns, significantly widening your potential buyer pool when it's time to sell. This is a major advantage in the used wheel market.

4. More Shopping Options

When shopping for wheels, filtering by dual bolt patterns gives you access to styles that might not be available in a single bolt pattern configuration for your vehicle.

5. Future-Proofing

If you're likely to change vehicles in the next few years, dual bolt pattern wheels can move with you — as long as your next vehicle uses one of the two patterns.

Drawbacks to Consider

1. Slightly Reduced Material Around the Hub

With twice the number of bolt holes, there's less material between the holes in the wheel's hub area. For most street driving, this is not a significant concern — reputable wheel manufacturers engineer dual-drilled wheels to meet the same safety standards. However, it's worth noting for:

  • Track use — Some racing organizations prohibit dual-drilled wheels
  • Extreme off-road use — Maximum structural integrity is preferred
  • Heavy towing — Extra stress on the mounting surface

2. Cosmetic Concerns

Some drivers don't like the look of extra bolt holes visible behind the lug nuts. This is purely aesthetic — it doesn't affect function. Many dual-drilled wheels position the unused holes behind the lugs where they're barely visible.

3. Potential for Dirt and Water Accumulation

Extra bolt holes can trap dirt, water, and road salt. Keep them clean during washes to prevent corrosion, especially in winter.

4. Hub Bore Considerations

With dual bolt patterns, the wheel's center bore must accommodate both patterns' hub sizes. This sometimes means the center bore is larger than ideal for one of the patterns, requiring hub-centric rings for a vibration-free fit.

Measuring wheel bolt pattern with a bolt pattern gauge

Are Dual Bolt Pattern Wheels Safe?

Yes — when manufactured by reputable brands. Quality dual-drilled wheels are:

  • Engineered with reinforced hub areas to compensate for additional holes
  • Tested to meet SAE J2530 and/or JWL safety standards
  • Load-rated for the same weight capacity as single-pattern wheels

The key is buying from established wheel brands, not bargain-bin imports. All dual bolt pattern wheels sold at Autrex meet or exceed safety standards.

âš ī¸

Never drill your own dual bolt pattern. DIY drilling weakens the wheel structure and creates an unsafe condition. Dual bolt patterns must be engineered and machined at the factory.

How to Choose Dual Bolt Pattern Wheels

Common bolt patterns compared side by side

1. Confirm Both Bolt Patterns

Make sure one of the two patterns matches your vehicle exactly. Use our bolt pattern guide to verify.

2. Check Offset Compatibility

The wheel's offset must work for your vehicle. Dual bolt pattern wheels are designed for a range of offsets, but verify that the specific offset works with your vehicle's fender clearance and suspension geometry.

3. Verify Center Bore

Check if the wheel's center bore matches your vehicle's hub. If it's larger (common with dual patterns), you'll need hub-centric rings.

4. Confirm Size and Load Rating

Ensure the wheel diameter, width, and load rating are appropriate for your vehicle and tire combination.

Dual Bolt Pattern vs. Wheel Adapters

Both solutions let you run wheels that don't match your native bolt pattern, but they're fundamentally different:

FeatureDual Bolt Pattern WheelsWheel Adapters
Built into the wheel✅ Yes❌ No — separate hardware
Adds width/spacer effect❌ No✅ Yes (adds 1-2")
SafetyFactory-engineeredAdditional failure point
WeightSame as standard wheelAdds 3-5 lbs per corner
Best forVersatility, resaleUsing specific wheels that don't fit natively

Dual bolt pattern wheels are the safer, cleaner solution when available. Adapters have their place but add complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I use all the bolt holes on a dual bolt pattern wheel?

No. You only use the 5 (or 6) holes that match your vehicle's bolt pattern. The other set of holes remains unused. Make sure you're using the correct set — if unsure, test-fit before fully torquing the lug nuts.

Can I use both bolt patterns simultaneously?

No. Each bolt pattern is a separate set of holes. You mount the wheel using one pattern or the other, never both at the same time.

Are dual bolt pattern wheels heavier?

Negligibly. The extra bolt holes actually remove a tiny amount of material. The difference is unmeasurable in practice.

Will the unused bolt holes cause vibration?

No. The unused holes don't affect wheel balance. However, if the center bore is larger than your vehicle's hub (common with dual patterns), you'll need hub-centric rings to prevent vibration.

Do all wheel brands offer dual bolt patterns?

No — it's more common with certain aftermarket brands. Look for brands like Vision, Sacchi, Drag, and others that specialize in multi-fitment wheels. Browse our wheel collection filtered by your bolt pattern to see available options.

Can I get dual bolt pattern wheels for trucks?

Yes. The 6x135/6x139.7 combination is very popular and covers Ford F-150 and GM/Toyota trucks. Some brands also offer 8-lug dual patterns for heavy-duty trucks.


Dual bolt pattern wheels are an excellent choice for drivers who value versatility, plan to swap vehicles, or want maximum resale value from their wheel investment. Just make sure you're buying from a reputable manufacturer and matching all fitment specs.

Shop Wheels → | Bolt Pattern Fitment Guide →

dual bolt patterndual lug patternmulti-bolt wheelsdual drilled wheelswheel fitment
A

Autrex

Automotive experts at Autrex providing in-depth guides on tires, wheels, and vehicle maintenance to help you make informed decisions.

Related Articles