If you own or are looking at a Honda Accord, knowing its bolt pattern is crucial for buying wheels, hubcaps, or spacers. The Honda Accord Bolt Pattern has changed several times over its long history, so getting it right is key for safety and fitment. This guide covers every generation from the first 1976 model to the latest 2024 versions, giving you the exact specifications you need.
We’ll break it down by year, explain what the numbers mean, and show you how to measure your own car. You’ll also learn about related terms like offset and center bore, which are just as important for a perfect fit.
Honda Accord Bolt Pattern
The bolt pattern, also called a bolt circle or lug pattern, is the arrangement of the lug nuts that secure the wheel to your car. For the Accord, it’s expressed with two numbers. The first is the number of lug nuts, and the second is the diameter of the circle they form, measured in millimeters or inches.
For example, a “5×114.3” pattern means there are 5 lug nuts arranged in a circle with a diameter of 114.3 millimeters. This measurement must be exact for the wheel to mount correctly and safely onto the hub.
Why the Correct Bolt Pattern Matters
Using wheels with the wrong bolt pattern is not just inconvenient—it’s dangerous. Wheels that don’t fit perfectly can cause vibrations, damage the studs or hub, and even lead to a wheel coming loose while driving. Insurance companies may also deny a claim if an accident is caused by incorrectly fitted aftermarket parts.
Getting the right pattern ensures your new wheels sit flush, your lug nuts torque down properly, and your ride remains smooth and secure. It’s the first and most important check when shopping for wheels.
How to Measure Your Accord’s Bolt Pattern
If you want to double-check your car’s pattern, it’s easy to do. You just need a simple ruler or a specialized bolt pattern gauge. Here’s how:
For a 4-lug pattern (common on older Accords):
1. Measure from the center of one stud to the center of the stud directly opposite it. That distance is your bolt circle diameter.
For a 5-lug pattern (most common):
1. Measure from the back of one stud hole to the center of the stud hole that is two studs away.
2. This measurement is trickier, so a bolt pattern gauge is more reliable for 5-lug wheels.
Remember to always clean the area and measure carefully. Even a few millimeters off means the pattern is wrong.
Honda Accord Bolt Pattern by Year and Generation
Here is the complete breakdown of the Honda Accord bolt pattern for every generation. Note that some model years within a generation may have carried over patterns from previous designs during transitions.
First Generation (1976–1981)
* Bolt Pattern: 4x120mm (4×4.72 inches)
* Notes: The original Accord used a 4-lug pattern. This is a less common size today, so finding aftermarket wheels may require more searching.
Second Generation (1982–1985)
* Bolt Pattern: 4×114.3mm (4×4.5 inches)
* Notes: Honda switched to the very common 4×114.3 pattern. This size is shared with many other 80s and 90s Japanese cars, making aftermarket options plentiful.
Third Generation (1986–1989)
* Bolt Pattern: 4×114.3mm (4×4.5 inches)
* Notes: The pattern remained the same. This generation also introduced double-wishbone suspension, improving handling.
Fourth Generation (1990–1993)
* Bolt Pattern: 4×114.3mm (4×4.5 inches)
* Notes: Consistency continued with the 4-lug design. Always verify the offset when choosing new wheels for this generation.
Fifth Generation (1994–1997)
* Bolt Pattern: 4×114.3mm (4×4.5 inches)
* Notes: The last generation to use a 4-lug pattern on the Accord sedan and coupe. The wagon version, however, sometimes had a different setup.
Sixth Generation (1998–2002)
* Bolt Pattern: 4×114.3mm (4×4.5 inches) for most models.
* Important Change: The V6 sedan model introduced in this generation switched to a 5-lug pattern: 5×114.3mm.
* Notes: This is a critical split. Always check your trim level (4-cylinder vs. V6) before ordering wheels for a 1998-2002 Accord.
Seventh Generation (2003–2007)
* Bolt Pattern: 5×114.3mm (5×4.5 inches) for ALL models.
* Notes: Honda standardized the 5-lug pattern across the entire Accord lineup, from 4-cylinder to V6 models. This pattern continues to the present day.
Eighth Generation (2008–2012)
* Bolt Pattern: 5×114.3mm (5×4.5 inches)
Ninth Generation (2013–2017)
* Bolt Pattern: 5×114.3mm (5×4.5 inches)
Tenth Generation (2018–2022)
* Bolt Pattern: 5×114.3mm (5×4.5 inches)
Eleventh Generation (2023–2024)
* Bolt Pattern: 5×114.3mm (5×4.5 inches)
* Notes: The latest Accord continues to use the same, reliable 5×114.3 pattern. This makes wheel compatibility very straightforward for many modern Honda and Acura vehicles.
Other Critical Wheel Fitment Specifications
The bolt pattern is only one part of the puzzle. To ensure a wheel fits your Accord perfectly, you must also match these three specifications:
1. Wheel Offset: This is the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and its centerline. It determines how far in or out the wheel sits in the wheel well. The wrong offset can cause rubbing against the suspension or fender.
2. Center Bore: This is the hole in the center of the wheel that centers it on the hub. Honda wheels have a specific center bore (often 64.1mm for newer models). Using wheels with a larger bore requires hub-centric rings to fill the gap and prevent vibration.
3. Lug Nut Type and Size: Accords typically use a 12mm x 1.5 lug thread size. The style (conical seat vs. ball seat) is also crucial. Using the wrong lug nuts can lead to improper clamping force.
Common Questions About Accord Wheel Fitment
* Will Civic wheels fit my Accord? Usually, no. Most modern Civics use a 5×114.3 pattern but often have a smaller center bore (56.1mm vs. 64.1mm) and different offset. They might physically bolt on but could cause issues.
* Will Acura wheels fit my Accord? Often, yes. Many Acura models (like the TL, TSX) share the 5×114.3 pattern and similar offsets. The center bore is usually the same (64.1mm), making them a direct swap.
* Can I use wheel adapters to change the bolt pattern? Yes, adapters can change the pattern (e.g., to fit a 5×120 BMW wheel). However, they add stress to the hub, change offset, and must be installed correctly. They are not generally recommended for daily driving.
* Does the year or trim level affect offset? Yes. While the bolt pattern has been consistent since 2003, the recommended offset can vary slightly between sedan, coupe, and different trim levels. Always check your specific model’s factory specs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying New Wheels for Your Accord
Follow these steps to avoid costly mistakes:
1. Confirm Your Specs: Use the chart above to find your exact bolt pattern. Then, check your owner’s manual or a trusted forum for your model’s factory offset and center bore. You can also measure the offset on your current wheel.
2. Shop for Wheels: Filter your search on wheel websites by your confirmed bolt pattern first. Then narrow by offset range and center bore.
3. Check Clearances: If choosing a wider wheel or different offset, use an online fitment calculator to see if it will clear your struts and fenders. Look for photos of other Accords with similar setups.
4. Order Hub-Centric Rings: If the new wheel’s center bore is larger than your Accord’s hub (64.1mm), you must purchase plastic or metal rings to ensure a vibration-free fit.
5. Get the Right Lug Nuts: Ensure you have the correct thread size (12mm x 1.5) and seat type (usually conical/tapered seat 60°) for the new wheels. Aftermarket wheels often need tuner-style lug nuts.
6. Professional Installation: Have the wheels mounted and balanced by a professional. They will use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the factory specification (usually 80-110 ft-lbs for an Accord) in a star pattern.
FAQ Section
What is the bolt pattern for a 2015 Honda Accord?
It’s 5×114.3mm (5×4.5 inches). All Accords from 2003 onward use this pattern.
What is the lug pattern for a 2000 Honda Accord?
It depends. 4-cylinder models use a 4×114.3mm pattern. V6 models use a 5×114.3mm pattern. You must check your specific car.
What is the wheel spacing on a 10th gen Accord?
“Wheel spacing” often refers to offset. The factory offset for a 10th gen (2018-2022) Accord typically ranges from +45 to +55mm, depending on the wheel size and trim.
Will 5×114.3 rims fit 5×115?
No, they are not interchangeable. The difference is 0.7mm, which is enough to prevent the lugs from seating correctly. It is unsafe to force a mismatch, even though some people attempt it.
What cars have the same bolt pattern as a Honda Accord?
Many! This includes most modern Acuras, many Nissans (Altima, Maxima), older Fords (Mustang), Toyotas (Camry, Avalon), and some Kia and Hyundai models. Always verify offset and center bore.
Finding the correct Honda Accord Bolt Pattern is the essential first step in any wheel upgrade or replacement. Since 2003, Honda has made it simple by standardizing on the versatile 5×114.3 pattern. For older models, paying close attention to the 4-lug to 5-lug transition in the late 90s is vital.
Always remember to pair the correct bolt pattern with the right offset, center bore, and lug nuts. When in doubt, consult with a reputable wheel shop or your dealership. Taking the time to get these details right ensures your Accord looks great, drives smoothly, and most importantly, stays safe on the road for years to come.