1996 Subaru Impreza Bolt Pattern
Checking fitment for your vehicle? Below you will find the factory bolt pattern (also known as the lug pattern) for the 1996 Subaru Impreza, along with offset and center bore data.
| Bolt Pattern (Lug Pattern) | 4x100 |
|---|---|
| Lug Nut / Bolt Size | N 12x1.25 |
| Center Bore (CB) | 56.1 mm |
| Offset (ET) | 55 |
| Torque Specs | 80 ft-lbs (108 Nm) |
1996 Impreza — Year-Specific Fitment Context
The 1996 model year is the final year of the Subaru Impreza's 4x100 bolt pattern run (since 1994). Wheels from any 1994–1996 Subaru Impreza are cross-compatible with the 1996 model. Note: the 1995 model used a different pattern (5x100), so its wheels are NOT interchangeable with the 1996. Important: starting in 1997, Subaru switched to 5x100 — those wheels will not fit the 1996 model. Across its full production run (1993–2024), the Impreza has also used: 5x100, 5x114.3.
Subaru Impreza Bolt Pattern by Year
The table below shows how the Impreza's wheel specifications have changed over the years. The 1996 model year is highlighted.
| Year | Bolt Pattern | Center Bore | Offset |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 1994 | 4x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 1995 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| ▸ 1996 | 4x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 1997 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 1998 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 1999 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2000 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2001 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2002 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2003 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2004 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2005 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2006 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2007 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2008 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2009 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2010 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2011 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2012 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2013 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2014 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2015 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2016 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2017 | 5x114.3 | 56.1 | 55 |
| 2018 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 48 |
| 2019 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 48 |
| 2020 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 48 |
| 2021 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 48 |
| 2022 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 48 |
| 2023 | 5x100 | 56.1 | 48 |
| 2024 | 5x114.3 | 56.1 | 48 |
4x100 Pattern Context
This bolt pattern appears on 474 vehicles in our current database and is considered moderately common.
Examples of other vehicles using 4x100:
Expert Buying Guide for 1996 Subaru Impreza
For your 1996 Subaru Impreza, the 5x100 bolt pattern and 56.1mm center bore are critical. Aftermarket wheels often have a larger center bore (e.g., 73.1mm), requiring hub-centric rings to prevent vibration and ensure proper load transfer. The stock offset is 55mm; deviations beyond ±5mm may cause rubbing or clearance issues. Always use lug nuts with the correct thread pitch (12x1.25) and seat type—conical (60-degree) for most aftermarket wheels, or ball seat for OEM Subaru wheels. Improper lug nuts can lead to wheel loosening. Verify fitment with a test fit before mounting tires.
Historical Fitment Data Reference
In our dataset, Subaru Impreza appears from 1993 to 2024 (32 model years). Across model years, this model appears with 3 bolt patterns (4x100, 5x100, 5x114.3).
- Observed bolt-pattern variants for this model: 3
- Observed center-bore variants for this model: 1
- Observed lug-size variants for this model: 2
- Observed total offset span across years: 7.0 mm
Quick Tips & Safety Warnings
- ✅ Re-torque lug nuts after 50-100 miles of driving to ensure proper seating.
- ✅ Avoid using universal fit wheels without hub-centric rings; they can cause steering wheel vibration.
- ✅ Check inner clearance against struts and outer clearance against fenders when using aftermarket offset.
- ⚠️ Verify thread pitch before installation; M12x1.25 and M12x1.5 are not interchangeable.
- ⚠️ Torque lugs in a star pattern to 80 ft-lbs (108 Nm), then re-check torque after 50-100 km (30-60 miles).
- ⚠️ This model has multiple bolt-pattern records across years. Match wheels to exact year/trim before purchase.
1996 Subaru Impreza — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bolt pattern for a 1996 Subaru Impreza?
The 1996 Subaru Impreza uses a 4x100 bolt pattern (also called lug pattern or PCD). The center bore is 56.1mm and the offset is 55mm.
What other years of Subaru Impreza have the same bolt pattern as the 1996?
The Subaru Impreza uses the 4x100 pattern from 1994 through 1996. Wheels from any of these model years are dimensionally compatible with the 1996, provided the offset and center bore also match.
Will 1997 Subaru Impreza wheels fit a 1996 model?
No. The 1997 Subaru Impreza switched to a 5x100 bolt pattern, which is not compatible with the 1996 model's 4x100. Using mismatched patterns is unsafe.
How do I measure the bolt pattern on my 1996 Subaru?
The 1996 Impreza uses a 4x100 pattern. For 4, 6, or 8-lug wheels, measure center-to-center across opposite holes. For 5-lug, measure from the center of one hole to the back of the opposite hole.
Will wheels from another Subaru fit my 1996 Impreza?
Only if they share the exact same 4x100 bolt pattern, a compatible offset, and a center bore equal to or larger than 56.1mm.
What is the factory wheel offset for a 1996 Subaru Impreza?
The OEM offset for the 1996 Impreza is typically around 55mm. Depending on wheel width, a deviation of ±5mm is usually acceptable, but verify suspension clearance.
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