Lug pattern is key in determining compatible wheels, thus influencing vehicle performance. However, some drivers find it difficult to identify this design on their vehicles, especially with uncommon options such as the 6×135 bolt pattern. If you have never heard of it or want to check to see whether your car is equipped with it, dive into this article.
In this article:
What Is The 6×135 Wheel Bolt Pattern?
The 6x135mm bolt pattern, also known as the 6×5.3-inch pattern, indicates the arrangement of 6 lugs in a circular shape with a diameter of 135 millimeters or 5.3 inches.
Similar to the formats of other lug specs, the first number (6) refers to the number of stud nuts, while the other (135) is the pitch circle diameter in millimeters.
Drivers may find another variation of 6×135 – 6×5.3, depending on the market. The stud count is still 6, the diameter of the circle formed by lug nuts is converted to 5.3 inches. The concept of PCD remains consistent and does not change in value despite utilizing different measurement systems.
It is worth mentioning that the way to measure a 6-lug wheel is different from the common 5-lug wheels. Since the number of bolt holes is an even number, the diameter is measured between the center of two opposite studs.
What Cars Have A 6×135 Lug Wheel Bolt Pattern?
The 6×135 lug pattern is commonly found on Ford and Lincoln models, particularly trucks and SUVs. Here are a list of vehicles that typically feature this design:
| Brand | Model | Manufacturing Year |
| Ford | Bronco | 2022 – 2023 |
| Expedition | 2003 – 2023 | |
| Lobo | 2009 – 2023 | |
| F-150 | 2004 2023 | |
| F-150 Lightning | 2022 – 2023 | |
| Lincoln | Mark LT | 2005 – 2008 and 2010 – 2014 |
| Navigator | 2003 – 2023 |
FAQs
Are All 6-Lug Rims Universal?
No. While there are common lug patterns, such as 6×139.7 or 6×5.5, there are variations in the specific bolt circle measurement.
How Many 6-Lug Patterns Are There?
There are several 6-lug patterns for your preference, as the plethora of new car models has given birth to many new lug wheel bolt patterns. However, some common designs are:
- 6×135: It consists of 6 lug holes arranged in a circular pattern with a diameter of 135 millimeters. It is commonly found on Ford and Lincoln vehicles.
- 6×139.7 (or 6×5.5): It features 6 lug holes forming a notional circle of 139.7 millimeters (5.5 inches). This design is popular on trucks, SUVs, and older Chevrolet and GMC vehicles.
- 6×114.3 (or 6×4.5): This pattern has 6 lug holes and a pitch circle measurement of 114.3 millimeters (4.5 inches). It often appears on certain Nissan, Infiniti, and Mitsubishi vehicles.
Why Do Trucks Have 6 Lugs?
Truck manufacturers often install 6-lug wheels on their vehicles for several reasons:
- Load capacity: Trucks are designed to carry heavy loads and tow trailers. The additional lug nuts provide more secure fastening of the wheels, distributing the load and torque evenly.
- Durability: These large vehicles are subjected to more demanding conditions than smaller ones. The 6-lug wheels provide increased strength and durability, allowing the wheels to withstand the higher stresses and forces.
- Larger brake systems: Trucks typically have more robust brake systems to handle the increased weight and towing capacity. Hence, extra studs allow for larger brake components, such as rotors and calipers, providing enhanced braking capabilities and heat dissipation.
- Off-Road capability: The 6-lug configuration offers better wheel stability and load distribution, reducing the risk of wheel or lug nut damage when driving over rough or uneven surfaces.
Do You Need All 6 Wheel Lugs?
Yes, it is essential to have all lug nuts securely fastened when installing wheels on a vehicle. Each lug nut maintains the proper clamping force between the wheel and the hub, ensuring the wheel remains securely attached to the car.
On the contrary, it is unsafe to drive with a missing nut. In this case, load and pressure will move to other components. Over time, these parts can wear out too much, causing serious damage to themselves and the wheel bearings and hubs.
Do All 6-Lug Rims Fit The Same?
No. There can be other important factors that determine proper fitment range, including:
- Offset: It determines how the wheel sits with the vehicle’s suspension components.
- Center bore diameter: It needs to match the diameter of the vehicle’s hub to ensure proper centering and load distribution.
- Load rating: It is important to select rims with an appropriate load rating to handle your vehicle’s weight and load capacity.
- Brake clearance: Some cars have larger brake components that may require additional clearance within the rim. Hence, ensure that the rims you choose provide sufficient clearance for the brake calipers and rotors to avoid interference or rubbing.
Conclusion
While the 6×135 wheel bolt pattern may not be as prevalent as other options on the market, it is a distinctive feature of Ford and Lincoln vehicles. As owners of these automobiles, it is important to familiarize yourself with these specifications to avoid errors regarding wheel modifications or upgrades.
Every aspect, no matter how small, contributes to the smooth operation of your vehicle. Investing in an incorrect lug pattern for your aftermarket wheels is never a great idea that may compromise performance and safety.
