What Is Audi’s Bolt Pattern?

An Audi’s bolt pattern is the specific arrangement of lug holes that secure the wheel to the hub; most modern Audi cars use a 5×112 bolt pattern, but exact sizes vary by model, year, and platform, so owners should always confirm the specs for their particular vehicle before buying wheels.

Understanding Bolt Patterns on Audi Vehicles

When drivers talk about an Audi’s “bolt pattern,” they are referring to the layout and spacing of the bolts (or studs) that attach the wheel to the car. This pattern determines which wheels will physically fit the hub. While 5×112 has become the dominant standard across Audi’s modern lineup, the brand has used several different patterns over the years, especially on older models and certain performance or SUV platforms.

What a Bolt Pattern Actually Means

The bolt pattern is usually written in a format like “5×112.” This describes two things: how many bolts (or lug holes) the wheel has, and the diameter of the circle those holes form. Both numbers matter for ensuring a safe, proper fit.

How to Read a Bolt Pattern

To understand Audi bolt patterns, it helps to break down the basic notation used across the automotive world.

• Number of lugs: The first number (for example, 5 in 5×112) indicates how many bolts or lug holes the wheel has.
• Pitch circle diameter (PCD): The second number (for example, 112) is the diameter of an imaginary circle that passes through the center of all the lug holes, measured in millimeters.
• Example 5×112: A five-lug wheel where the center points of the lugs lie on a 112 mm circle.
• Example 4×100: A four-lug wheel where the center of the four lugs lie on a 100 mm circle, sometimes seen on older small cars (though rarely on modern Audis).
• Metric standard: European and most global manufacturers (including Audi) use metric PCD measurements, which is why figures like 100, 112, and 120 appear often.

Understanding this notation is essential because even a small difference in PCD, such as 5×110 versus 5×112, is enough to make a wheel incompatible or unsafe to mount without specialized hardware.

The Most Common Audi Bolt Pattern: 5×112

Across the current Audi lineup—sedans, wagons, SUVs, and many performance variants—the 5×112 pattern is dominant. This standardization simplifies wheel compatibility within recent generations, but exceptions still exist, particularly when you look at older models and certain flagship performance cars.

Modern Audi Models That Commonly Use 5×112

Many of the Audis seen on the road today share the 5×112 bolt pattern, especially those built roughly from the mid‑2000s onward, though exact changeover years can differ by market and platform.

• A3 / S3 / RS 3 (most recent generations): Commonly 5×112, especially MQB/MQB‑based platforms from about 2013 onward in many markets.
• A4 / S4 / RS 4: B8 and later generations (roughly 2008+ in many markets) typically use 5×112.
• A5 / S5 / RS 5: Coups and Sportbacks in modern generations generally run 5×112.
• A6 / S6 / RS 6: C6 and newer are largely standardized on 5×112, with performance and wagon variants sharing the same PCD.
• A7 / S7 / RS 7: All generations have predominantly used 5×112, often with larger wheel diameters but the same PCD.
• A8 / S8: D3 onward commonly uses 5×112, with some early generations and special variants historically differing.
• Q2, Q3, Q4 e‑tron, Q5, Q7, Q8: Audi’s SUV and crossover range is heavily standardized on 5×112 in modern production.
• E‑tron / Q8 e‑tron family: Electric SUVs from Audi also typically adopt the 5×112 pattern to align with the broader lineup.

Because manufacturers sometimes adjust suspension or brake hardware within a generation, owners should still verify the specific pattern for their VIN or model year, but 5×112 is a safe starting assumption for most late‑model Audis.

Important Exceptions and Older Audi Bolt Patterns

Not every Audi has always used 5×112. Earlier generations, specialty platforms, and cross‑shared vehicles have used different bolt patterns, especially in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s. These differences matter when sourcing replacement or aftermarket wheels for older cars.

Older and Niche Audi Patterns You May Encounter

Enthusiasts restoring classic Audis or modifying older models are more likely to encounter non‑5×112 patterns, some of which can be harder to match with modern wheels.

• 4×108 and 4×100: Some compact and early‑generation Volkswagen‑Group‑related models used 4‑lug patterns, though these are uncommon on mainstream Audi passenger cars today.
• 5×100: Certain older compact platforms (especially shared with VW) have appeared with 5×100, particularly on earlier A3/TT generations.
• 5×112 (older implementation): Even where 5×112 was used historically, hub sizes and offsets may differ significantly from modern standards, affecting wheel interchangeability.
• High‑performance and special models: Some halo cars and race‑inspired variants can carry unique wheel and hub specifications, even if the PCD matches other models on paper.
• Platform‑shared vehicles: Cars sharing underpinnings with VW, SEAT, or Škoda sometimes adopt that platform’s PCD; cross‑checking by platform code (e.g., MQB) can be helpful.

Because documentation for older or niche patterns can be inconsistent, relying solely on visual inspection is risky; precise measurements or reputable databases are essential for these vehicles.

Other Wheel Specs That Matter Beyond Bolt Pattern

Knowing the bolt pattern is necessary but not sufficient for choosing wheels that fit and behave correctly. Several other measurements must also be compatible, especially on modern Audis with large brakes and sophisticated suspension geometry.

Key Wheel Fitment Dimensions for Audi Owners

Drivers often assume matching the PCD is enough, but other wheel specs play an equally important role in safety, ride quality, and handling.

• Center bore (hub bore): The diameter of the hole at the center of the wheel that fits over the hub. Audis typically use a hub‑centric design; if the bore is too small, the wheel will not fit, and if it is larger, hub‑centric rings may be required.
• Offset (ET): Measured in millimeters, offset describes how far the wheel’s mounting surface sits from its centerline. Audi offsets are often in the +30 to +50 mm range, but this varies by model, wheel width, and brake package.
• Wheel width and diameter: While bolt pattern determines if the wheel can bolt on at all, width and diameter determine tire options, clearance to suspension, and ride quality.
• Brake clearance: Bigger Audi performance brakes (S, RS, and high‑spec packages) require wheels with sufficient inner barrel and spoke clearance, even when PCD, bore, and offset technically fit.
• Lug seat type: Audi OEM wheels typically use a specific seat shape (ball/R‑seat or cone/tapered), and using the wrong lug type can compromise clamping force and safety.

Considering these dimensions together with the bolt pattern ensures not only that the wheel goes on the car, but that it performs correctly and avoids rubbing, vibration, or stress on suspension components.

How to Confirm Your Audi’s Bolt Pattern

Because small variations can exist within model years, trims, and markets, the most reliable way to know an Audi’s bolt pattern is to check authoritative sources rather than relying solely on assumptions or visual checks.

Practical Ways to Verify the Correct Pattern

Before buying or swapping wheels for an Audi, owners have several trustworthy ways to confirm the exact bolt pattern and related specs.

• Owner’s manual: Many manuals include wheel and tire specification tables that list PCD and related data, especially for standard wheel sizes.
• Door jamb or fuel flap labels: Some vehicles list wheel and tire sizes on labels; while they may not always show PCD, they confirm OEM wheel size and can be cross‑referenced.
• Manufacturer or dealer databases: An Audi dealer can look up wheel specifications by VIN, providing pattern, bore, and offset details for the exact car.
• Specialized wheel fitment databases: Reputable online fitment guides and wheel retailers maintain updated lists of Audi models with exact bolt patterns and offsets.
• Measuring directly: For older or modified cars, a professional shop can physically measure PCD, bore, and offset to ensure complete accuracy.

Taking the time to verify fitment before purchase can prevent costly mistakes, such as wheels that do not mount, interfere with brakes, or cause handling issues.

Why Correct Bolt Pattern Matters for Safety and Performance

Mounting a wheel with an incorrect bolt pattern or mismatched related dimensions is more than just an aesthetic problem; it can directly affect safety and long‑term reliability. Audi’s engineering assumes specific wheel geometry and load distribution.

Risks of Using the Wrong Pattern or Adapters

Some owners consider using adapters or forcing close‑fit patterns to install non‑standard wheels. This carries a range of potential problems.

• Improper seating and stress: A wheel that does not match the hub pattern exactly can place uneven stress on bolts and hubs, increasing the risk of loosening or failure.
• Vibration and ride quality issues: Off‑center or poorly adapted wheels may cause persistent vibration, leading to premature wear of suspension components.
• Interference with brakes or suspension: Incorrect offsets or adapter thicknesses can push wheels too far in or out, causing rubbing on fenders, liners, or control arms.
• Legal and inspection concerns: In some regions, non‑approved wheel modifications, including adapters, can fail vehicle inspections or affect insurance coverage.
• Compromised safety margins: Audi designs wheel and hub assemblies with specific loads in mind; changing critical dimensions without engineering verification can reduce safety margins under emergency maneuvers or heavy braking.

For these reasons, most experts recommend sticking to correctly matched bolt patterns and carefully chosen offsets rather than improvising with near‑fit or heavily adapted solutions.

Summary

Most modern Audi models use a 5×112 bolt pattern, meaning five lug holes on a 112 mm pitch circle, but exact specifications can vary by model, year, and performance package. Older and special Audi platforms have used different patterns, making it crucial to confirm the exact fit for a specific vehicle. Understanding bolt pattern, along with center bore, offset, and wheel size, ensures safe and proper wheel selection, protects handling and ride quality, and helps avoid costly fitment mistakes. For any Audi—new or old—verification via the owner’s manual, VIN‑based dealer information, or a reputable database is the most reliable path to choosing the right wheels.

What cars are 5×112 bolt pattern?

Many European cars from brands like Audi, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz use the 5×112 bolt pattern, including models such as the Audi A4, VW Golf, and Mercedes C-Class. Additionally, some models from BMW (starting with certain newer chassis), Porsche (such as the Macan), and other brands like Bentley and Lamborghini also use this pattern, though it’s essential to check compatibility for specific models.
 
Audi

• A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8
• Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8
• R8, RS5, RS7, TT Quattro 

Volkswagen

• Atlas, Beetle, CC, Golf (MK5 and newer)
• Jetta, Passat, Tiguan 

Mercedes-Benz

• C-Class, E-Class, S-Class
• CLA, CLS, GLA, GLC, GLE 

BMW
Some newer G-chassis models and Specific models like the i3 and iX1. 
Porsche
Macan and Panamera. 
Other brands
Bentley Continental GT, Lamborghini Gallardo, and Some models from Skoda and Seat.

What is the bolt pattern on a 2004 Audi A4?

The 2004 Audi A4 has a 5×112 bolt pattern, meaning it has five lug holes and a bolt circle diameter of 112 millimeters. This pattern is common for many Audi and Volkswagen models. 
This video explains the difference between 5×100 and 5×112 bolt patterns and the importance of bolt seat types: 49sDeutsche Auto PartsYouTube · Jan 30, 2020

• Bolt Pattern: 5×112
• Center Bore: 66.56 mm
• Offset: Varies by wheel size, but often around 40mm40 mm40mm or 45mm45 mm45mm 

What is the bolt pattern on a 2007 Audi A6?

Audi A6 S6 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 19″ Factory OEM Wheel Rim This is a 19″ OEM Wheel Rim. This wheel has 5 lug holes and a bolt pattern of 112mm.

What bolt pattern does an Audi have?

Finance your Audi Wheels

YEAR	MAKE	COMMENTS
2013	Audi	5 lug 4.41 inch or 112mm High Positive Offset
2014	Audi	5 lug 4.41 inch or 112mm High Positive Offset
1996	Audi	5 lug 4.41 inch or 112mm High Positive Offset
1997	Audi	5 lug 4.41 inch or 112mm High Positive Offset