If you are a Jeep Wrangler owner or enthusiast, you might have wondered what is the bolt pattern on a Jeep Wrangler. The bolt pattern, also known as the lug pattern or the PCD (pitch circle diameter), is the diameter of an imaginary circle that passes through the center of the lug holes on a wheel. 

The bolt pattern determines how a wheel fits onto the vehicle’s hub. Knowing the bolt pattern of your Jeep Wrangler is important if you want to upgrade your wheels, replace a damaged one, or swap wheels with another vehicle. 

In this blog post, we will explain what is the bolt pattern on a Jeep Wrangler and how to measure it. We will also provide some examples of compatible wheels for different models of Jeep Wrangler.

What is the Bolt Pattern on a Jeep Wrangler?

The bolt pattern refers to the diameter of the circle made by the bolts and number of bolts used to mount the wheels on a vehicle. This important measurement helps ensure wheels and tires fit precisely. Jeep Wranglers utilize a common 5×5 bolt pattern, with some variations based on specific models and years.

Understanding bolt patterns, measuring yours correctly, and choosing compatible wheels ensures safe off-road adventures in your Jeep.

What is Bolt Pattern, Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD), and Wheel Fitment?

Before discussing Jeep Wrangler bolt patterns, it helps to understand some terminology:

• Bolt Pattern – The measurements of the bolt circle for wheel mounting. Often shown as diameter x bolt holes (5×5)
• Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD) – Diameter of the bolt circle measured through the center of each bolt hole.
• Wheel Fitment – Correctly matching the wheel dimensions and specifications to fit the vehicle. This includes bolt pattern, offset, center bore, and brake caliper clearance.

You must know the bolt pattern when shopping for new wheels or tires. Even if they have the same diameter, an incompatible bolt pattern can prevent safe mounting.

What is the Factory Bolt Pattern on a Jeep Wrangler?

The standard factory bolt pattern on most Jeep Wrangler models, including the YJ, TJ, JK, and JL generations, is:

• 5×5 – 5 bolts in a circle with a diameter of 5 inches.

This is sometimes shown as 5×127, 5×4.5, or 127.1 (PCD in mm). Some describe it as a “Jeep bolt pattern” since 5×5 is common on many models.

Very early CJ models used a 5×150 bolt pattern before switching to the now standard 5×5.

Some factory wheel options may also use:

• 5×4.5 – Similar but with slightly smaller diameter between bolts. Still mounts safely.
• 5×139.7 – Metric equivalent to standard 5×5.5 pattern.

So when shopping for replacement wheels, look for the 5×5, 5×4.5, or 5×139.7 bolt circle measurements to fit a Wrangler.

What Other Bolt Patterns Fit a Jeep Wrangler?

While 5×5 is the factory pattern, these others also safely fit and mount on a Wrangler with the right wheel spacers or adapters:

• 5×4.5 – As mentioned, a very slightly smaller diameter still mounts.
• 5×127 – Same bolt count, tighter spacing. Needs small spacers.
• 5×114.3 – Requires hubcentric spacers/adapters for proper center bore alignment.
• 6×5.5 – Fits but LESS common pattern. Confirms correct before buying wheels.
• 6×135 – Needs hub adapters for proper center bore alignment.
• 6×139.7 – Metric version of the 6×5.5 pattern.

Consult an expert before using adapters to convert to less common bolt patterns. Improper fitment creates unsafe conditions.

Why is Properly Matching Bolt Patterns Important?

You can’t simply force incompatible wheels onto your Wrangler’s hubs. Here’s why the bolt pattern MUST properly match:

• Alignment – Bolt holes must align to mount securely during installation. Wrong spacing prevents this.
• Hub Centricity – The center bore on the wheel must match the hub diameter to center the wheel correctly.
• Weight Distribution – Even spacing of bolts distributes weight and force evenly across the wheel. Wrong patterns cause imbalance.
• Safety – Improper bolt patterns lead to cracked wheels, broken lug studs, separation at the hub and catastrophic accidents.

Never install wheels with even slightly wrong bolt patterns. Damaged components or serious crashes can occur.

How Do I Measure Bolt Pattern When Fitting New Wheels?

Follow these steps to measure and verify your Wrangler’s bolt pattern before buying new wheels:

1. Remove the wheel and measure directly on the hub , not the wheel.
2. Use a measuring tape to measure the diameter between two bolt holes directly across from each other.
3. Count the total number of bolt holes circling the hub.
4. Note BOTH measurements – the diameter and number of bolts. Example: 5 inches between bolts, 5 total bolts = 5×5.
5. Check BOTH front and rear. Wheel patterns sometimes vary front vs rear.
6. Consult manual if unknown to confirm original factory spec.
7. Cross check the bolt pattern on new wheels BEFORE purchasing or installation.

Accurately measuring both dimensions ensures proper replacement wheel fitment. Never guess – always measure!

What is Center Bore and Why Does it Matter?

Center bore, also called hub bore, is the center hole on a wheel that fits precisely over the hub.

Why the center bore size matters:

• Wheels center properly over the hub for correct alignment.
• A loose fit wobbles and damages the wheel and axle.
• Too small of a center bore won’t mount at all.
• Must match hub diameter (usually 72.5mm on Wrangler).
• Hubcentric spacers can adapt mismatched sizes if needed.

Consult a tire shop BEFORE buying wheels if unsure of the hub bore size needed for proper fit.

Can You Convert Bolt Patterns on a Jeep Wrangler?

It IS possible to convert to a different bolt pattern using wheel adapters or spacers, but this should ONLY be done with expert guidance for two main reasons:

1. Compatibility – The new pattern must precisely match hub dimensions and stud placement to mount safely. Even slightly off risks components cracking or breaking under stress. An expert can ensure proper fit.
2. Adjustments – Changing patterns alters critical factors like brake caliper clearance, center bore, and offset. Test fits and adjustments are required for safety. Don’t skip steps.

A professional shop can source and install wheel adapters tailored specifically to your year/model Wrangler for a safe bolt pattern conversion.

Never simply force on the wrong bolt pattern without proper adapters or expert oversight.

What Bolt Pattern Should I Choose for Custom Off-Road Wheels?

If considering upgrading your stock Wrangler wheels to aftermarket off-road ones, follow these tips:

• Stick with the factory 5×5 or 5×127 bolt pattern unless adapters will be professionally installed. This guarantees hassle-free direct fit.
• Measure the hub carefully for BOTH diameter and number of lugs before ordering. Never assume 5×5 without checking.
• Confirm the exact center bore and make sure wheels match your Wrangler’s hub diameter.
• Consider a wheel with adequate inner clearance for brake calipers if going with oversized tires.
• Evaluate added width/backspacing for potential rubbing at wheel wells when off-camber.
• Research reputable wheel brands that design for durability during off-roading. Quality matters.

While the right custom wheels can enhance off-road performance and looks, ensuring the proper bolt pattern for your specific Wrangler is the first critical step.

Will Installing Spacers Allow Different Bolt Patterns to Fit?

Wheel spacers can potentially adapt mismatched bolt patterns in some cases. But precautions are crucial:

• Must be precision machined hubcentric spacers engineered for the exact application.
• Only reputable brands like Spidertrax should be used to avoid breakage or slippage.
• The new pattern MUST match the spacer size and wheel hub surface area completely. Even slight mismatch risks cracks and warping under stress.
• Lug nuts must be lengthened to account for the extra space added.
• Spacers add leverage on components and can impact handling if too thick.
• Professional installation with extensive testing and safety checks is critical.

With the right hubcentric spacers, slight pattern differences can be adapted. But the variation must be minimal, never “forcing” wheels onto an incorrect pattern.

What is Backspacing And Does it Matter?

Backspacing, also called wheel offset, refers to how far the mounting surface is set back from the wheel center.

This matters because it impacts:

• Handling – Too much or too little backspacing can negatively alter steering and weight distribution.
• Fit – Required clearance from any wheel well rubbing.
• Appearance – Poke or stretch by changing visual stance.
• Options – Limits tires sizes that fit without rubbing.

Experts can tune backspacing choices to your specific Jeep model and intended use. But stick close to factory backspacing for bolt patterns unless adapting for wider oversized tires.

FAQ About Jeep Wrangler Bolt Patterns

Here are some common questions about Jeep Wrangler bolt patterns:

What is the bolt pattern on my 2000 TJ Wrangler?

The factory bolt pattern on all TJ generation Wranglers from 1997-2006 is 5×5.

Do 2018 JL models have the same 5×5 pattern?

Yes, 2018 and newer JL Wranglers retain the standard 5×5 bolt pattern. Some packages may have a 5×4.5 variation but 5×5 remains most common.

What is the difference between 5×114 and 5×5?

The first number refers to diameter while the second is bolt holes. 5×114 has wider spacing between fewer lugs. This does NOT fit a 5×5 Wrangler without adapters.

Can I put Toyota wheels on my 2012 JK Wrangler?

No, most Toyotas use a 5×100, 5×114, or 5×127 pattern. None match a JK’s 5×5 without using hub adapters. Never install wheels with different patterns.

Can I convert my bolt pattern to 6×5.5?

You can convert to a 6×5.5 pattern with proper hub centric wheel adapters sized specifically for a Jeep. But expert installation is crucial for safety and handling.

Conclusion 

Understanding the factory 5×5 bolt circle pattern on a Jeep Wrangler allows for proper wheel and tire fitment. Always measure hubs carefully before purchasing new wheels. And only adapt different patterns under professional supervision, never forcing on mismatched lug holes. With care taken during wheel installation or upgrades, a Jeep will provide many years of off-road memories.