What Is the Bolt Pattern on the Audi 5‑Lug?

The standard bolt pattern for most modern 5‑lug Audi passenger cars is 5×112 (5 bolts on a 112 mm pitch circle), but there are notable exceptions on older models and some performance vehicles, so checking your specific model, year, and trim is essential.

Understanding Audi 5‑Lug Bolt Patterns

When Audi owners talk about a “5‑lug” bolt pattern, they’re referring to wheels that are secured with five wheel bolts. The critical measurement is the distance across those bolts, known as the pitch circle diameter (PCD). For most current Audi sedans, wagons, crossovers, and many performance versions, this PCD is 112 mm, forming the widely used 5×112 pattern.

What “5×112” Actually Means

In wheel terminology, “5×112” describes both the number of lugs and the diameter of the circle those lugs sit on. Understanding this number helps Audi owners choose compatible aftermarket or replacement wheels without risking safety or fitment issues.

The key aspects of the 5×112 designation can be broken down into concrete points that clarify what each part of the number means and why it matters for Audi vehicles.

• “5” = the number of wheel bolts (or lugs) securing the wheel to the hub.
• “112” = the diameter (in millimeters) of the imaginary circle that passes through the center of each bolt hole.
• PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter) = the technical term describing that bolt circle measurement.
• Metric standard = European brands like Audi almost always use metric PCD values.
• Compatibility factor = the bolt pattern must match exactly; a wheel with a different PCD will not mount safely.

Taken together, these points show that 5×112 is more than a label — it is a precise fitment specification that determines whether a wheel can bolt correctly onto an Audi hub.

Common Audi 5‑Lug Bolt Patterns by Era and Model Type

Although 5×112 is now the de facto standard for most Audi 5‑lug passenger vehicles, earlier generations and a few specific models used different PCDs. Knowing roughly when Audi shifted patterns helps narrow down what’s on a particular car.

Modern Audi Models: Mostly 5×112

For the last several generations, Audi has standardized on the 5×112 bolt pattern for the bulk of its 5‑lug lineup. This includes most sedans, Sportbacks, wagons (Avants), and SUVs/crossovers.

The following list outlines typical Audi model lines and generations that commonly use the 5×112 pattern, giving owners a starting point when checking wheel compatibility.

• A3 / S3 / RS 3 (8P late years, 8V, 8Y): predominantly 5×112, especially from around the early 2010s onward.
• A4 / S4 / RS 4 (B6, B7, B8, B9): widely 5×112 for most 5‑lug configurations.
• A5 / S5 / RS 5 (all generations): typically 5×112.
• A6 / S6 / RS 6 (C5 late, C6, C7, C8): largely 5×112; newer RS models follow the same PCD.
• A7 / S7 / RS 7: generally 5×112 across generations.
• A8 / S8 (D3 late, D4, D5): mostly 5×112, with performance brakes and wheel sizes varying but keeping the PCD.
• Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8 SUVs: mainstream trims are typically 5×112, though offsets and wheel widths vary.
• e‑tron and Q4 e‑tron EVs: generally 5×112, following Audi’s modern wheel standardization.

While this pattern is common across these models, differences in offset, center bore, and brake clearance mean that not every 5×112 Audi wheel will interchange perfectly between models without additional checks.

Older and Special-Case Audi 5‑Lug Patterns

Enthusiasts working with older Audis or niche performance variants sometimes encounter different bolt patterns. This is especially true of classic sedans and coupes from the 1980s and 1990s, as well as some early generations of popular model lines.

The following list summarizes notable 5‑lug Audi bolt patterns outside the now-standard 5×112, highlighting eras where variations are more likely.

• Early Audi 80 / 90 / Coupe (1980s–early 1990s): often used 4×108 and 4×100 in 4‑lug form; some later 5‑lug performance versions moved toward 5×112.
• Early A4 (B5, mid‑1990s): standard 5‑lug versions were generally 5×112, but regional and engine-specific setups can affect hub and brake hardware.
• Classic Quattro and rally-derived models: some rare homologation and competition-focused cars had unique hub and wheel setups that do not follow modern patterns.
• Volkswagen platform relatives: on shared VW–Audi platforms from earlier eras, some vehicles used 5×100 (more common in VW-badged cars), which can cause confusion when parts are swapped.
• Aftermarket conversions: older chassis may have been retrofitted with different hubs or big-brake kits that change the bolt pattern from the original spec.

Because of these exceptions, owners of 1990s and earlier Audis—and any heavily modified car—should not assume 5×112 without directly verifying their specific hub and wheel markings.

How to Confirm the Bolt Pattern on Your Audi

Even if your Audi falls into a model range that usually uses 5×112, confirmation is still important, especially when ordering expensive wheels or mixing OEM and aftermarket parts. Several reliable methods can be used to verify the pattern.

Checking Documentation and Markings

The simplest approach is to rely on official documentation or stamped markings on the vehicle and wheels. This avoids the need to physically measure the pattern in most cases.

The following points outline practical ways an owner can confirm the bolt pattern without specialized tools, relying on paperwork and factory information.

• Owner’s manual: often lists wheel specifications or refers to a technical data section that includes PCD.
• Service or workshop manuals: more detailed factory literature frequently states the bolt pattern.
• Wheel casting marks: many OEM and quality aftermarket wheels have the PCD (e.g., “5×112”) cast or stamped on the inner barrel or spoke.
• Dealer or official parts catalog: a dealership parts department can look up your VIN and confirm factory wheel specs.
• Online OEM databases: manufacturer-backed or VIN-decoding tools sometimes list exact wheel fitment data.

Cross-referencing at least two independent sources—such as the owner’s manual and a dealer parts lookup—provides a strong confirmation before buying new wheels.

Measuring the Bolt Pattern Yourself

When documentation isn’t available or when a car has unknown modifications, measuring the bolt pattern directly from the hub or wheel provides a definitive answer. For a 5‑lug wheel, the measurement is taken differently than for 4‑ or 6‑lug setups.

The steps below explain how to measure a 5‑lug pattern in a way that avoids the most common errors owners make when attempting this for the first time.

1. Remove the wheel or use a spare wheel where the bolt holes are clearly visible.
2. Identify the center of one bolt hole and choose a non-adjacent hole across the circle to reference.
3. Measure from the center of one lug hole to the outer edge (far side) of a non-adjacent lug hole using a metric ruler or caliper.
4. Convert or compare that measurement to common PCD sizes; a result near 112 mm indicates a 5×112 pattern.
5. Double-check alignment by re-measuring with the wheel rotated slightly to ensure consistent readings.

Because the holes on a 5‑lug wheel are not directly opposite each other, using the “center-to-outer-edge” method is crucial to getting an accurate reading instead of underestimating the PCD.

Why Bolt Pattern Accuracy Matters for Audi Owners

Installing wheels with the wrong bolt pattern isn’t just a matter of poor fit—it can introduce serious safety risks. For Audi vehicles, which often have high-speed capability and sophisticated suspension systems, correct wheel fitment is especially critical.

Safety, Handling, and Warranty Concerns

Even small deviations from Audi’s specified wheel fitment can affect how the car behaves at speed and during emergency maneuvers. Using wheels that match only the bolt pattern, while ignoring other fitment factors, can still cause problems.

The main reasons bolt-pattern accuracy and overall wheel fitment matter can be summarized through their effects on performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

• Clamping security: a mismatched PCD prevents full, even contact of the wheel against the hub, risking bolt loosening and wheel vibration.
• Stress on components: incorrect fitment can place abnormal loads on wheel bolts, hubs, and bearings, accelerating wear or causing failure.
• Handling and braking: improper wheel dimensions combined with the wrong pattern can alter scrub radius and brake clearance, affecting steering feel and stopping performance.
• ABS and stability systems: extreme changes in wheel and tire setup can interfere with how Audi’s electronic safety systems interpret wheel speed and grip.
• Warranty and insurance implications: using wheels outside manufacturer specifications can complicate warranty claims or accident investigations.

Ensuring that wheels match the correct bolt pattern and the rest of Audi’s fitment requirements helps preserve not only the car’s intended driving dynamics but also its safety and legal compliance on public roads.

Beyond Bolt Pattern: Other Key Audi Wheel Specs

While the question focuses on the 5‑lug bolt pattern, Audi wheel compatibility also depends on other dimensions. Owners often discover that two wheels can share a 5×112 pattern but still fail to interchange because of differences in center bore or offset.

Center Bore, Offset, and Wheel Size

These additional specifications work together with the bolt pattern to determine how a wheel sits on the car. For many modern Audis, these factors vary by model and trim, even when the PCD remains 5×112.

The following list highlights the most important wheel dimensions Audi owners should consider alongside the bolt pattern when choosing new wheels.

• Center bore (hub bore): the diameter of the hole in the middle of the wheel that fits over the hub lip; modern Audis often use a hub bore around 57.1 mm or 66.5 mm, depending on platform.
• Offset (ET): the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and its centerline; typically a positive number on Audi wheels, and crucial for brake and fender clearance.
• Wheel width and diameter: for example, 18×8.0 or 20×9.0; these must be compatible with tire size recommendations and physical space in the wheel well.
• Load and speed rating: especially important on heavier models such as the Q7, Q8, or high-performance RS cars.
• Bolt type and seat design: Audis use wheel bolts (not studs and nuts) and typically a specific seat type (often ball seat on OEM wheels); incorrect seats can compromise clamping force.

Considering these additional factors, alongside the 5×112 pattern, ensures that replacement or aftermarket wheels fit not only in theory but also in real-world driving conditions.

Summary

Most modern 5‑lug Audi passenger vehicles use a 5×112 bolt pattern, meaning five wheel bolts arranged on a 112 mm pitch circle. This standard applies across the majority of recent A‑, S‑, RS‑, and Q‑series models, as well as many of Audi’s electric vehicles. However, some older models, certain platform relatives, and heavily modified cars may differ, making it crucial to verify the pattern via documentation or direct measurement. For safe and reliable wheel fitment, Audi owners should confirm not only the bolt pattern but also center bore, offset, and other critical wheel specifications before purchasing or installing new wheels.

Is 5×112 a common bolt pattern?

The 5×112 bolt pattern is commonly found on a range of vehicles, particularly those from German automakers like Audi, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz. This pattern’s key specifications are: Five bolt holes, providing a secure attachment for the wheel. A 112mm diameter circle passing through the center of these holes.

What’s the bolt pattern for Audi?

Most modern Audi vehicles use a 5×112 bolt pattern, meaning there are five bolts and the distance across them is 112mm. Older or specific models may use a 5×100 bolt pattern. It is crucial to verify the correct bolt pattern, as well as the bolt seat type (e.g., ball or cone) and center bore (e.g., 66.5mm) for your specific Audi model before purchasing new wheels. 
This video explains how to check the bolt pattern of your wheels: 59sDeutsche Auto PartsYouTube · Jan 30, 2020
Common Audi bolt patterns

• 5×112: The most common pattern for modern Audi models, including the A3, A4, A5, S4, and S7. 
• 5×100: Found on some older Audi models, such as the A1 (8X) and A3 (8L). 

Other important specifications to consider

• Center Bore: The size of the center hole on the wheel that fits over the vehicle’s hub. For many Audis, this is 66.5mm. 
• Bolt Seat: The shape of the seat where the wheel bolt makes contact with the wheel. Most factory Audi wheels use a ball seat, while many aftermarket wheels use a cone seat. Using the wrong one can damage the wheel and be unsafe. 
• Offset: The distance from the wheel’s hub to the wheel’s centerline. A proper offset ensures the wheel sits correctly in the wheel well. 

Why it’s important to get the right fitment

• Using an incorrect bolt pattern will prevent the wheel from bolting to the car. 
• Using the wrong bolt seat can damage the wheel and lead to it becoming loose. 
• Correctly matching these specifications is essential for both safety and proper wheel function. 

This video explains what wheels will fit your Audi A3/S3: 1mKONIG WHEELS USAYouTube · Apr 4, 2025

What is the bolt pattern on the Audi S5?

Notes

Bolt Pattern	Centerbore	Hardware
5×112	66.56 – hubcentric	60 deg conical

What is the bolt pattern on a 2012 Audi a5?

The 2012 Audi A5 has a 5×112 bolt pattern, meaning it has 5 lug holes with a 112mm bolt circle diameter. Other specifications include a center bore of 66.5mm and M14 x 1.5 lug bolts.
 
This video explains how to choose the right wheels for your Audi A5: 1mthreepiece.usYouTube · Oct 23, 2024

• Bolt Pattern: 5×1125 cross 1125×112
• Lug Holes: 5
• Bolt Circle Diameter: 112mm
• Center Bore: 66.5mm
• Lug Bolt Size: M14 x 1.5